ALUMINIUM CHLOROHYDRATE Meaning and
Definition
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Aluminium chlorohydrate is a chemical compound that falls under the category of inorganic compounds. It is primarily used as an antiperspirant and can be found in various personal care products like deodorants, antiperspirant sprays, and roll-on antiperspirants.
Chemically, aluminium chlorohydrate is a complex of polymeric aluminium cations along with chloride anions. It is a yellowish or white solid, with the formula [Al2(OH)nCl6-n]m. The value of n can vary, which affects its molecular weight and structure. Typically, aluminium chlorohydrate is a highly soluble compound in water.
When applied to the skin, aluminium chlorohydrate forms a thin layer on the sweat ducts, causing them to constrict and reduce the amount of perspiration produced. This process helps in temporarily reducing sweat production and preventing underarm wetness and odor.
It is important to note that aluminium chlorohydrate is distinct from aluminum chloride, which has a different molecular formula and functions differently. Aluminium chlorohydrate is generally considered safe for use in personal care products, but some studies have linked its long-term use to potential health concerns. However, regulatory bodies such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Union's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) have deemed it safe for use within specified limits.
Overall, aluminium chlorohydrate is a widely used compound in antiperspirants due to its ability to control sweat and minimize body odor.
Etymology of ALUMINIUM CHLOROHYDRATE
The word "aluminium chlorohydrate" can be broken down into its constituent parts for an understanding of its etymology:
1. Aluminium: The word "aluminium" is derived from the Latin word "alumen", meaning "bitter salt" or "alum". It was first proposed as a name for the metal in 1809 by Sir Humphry Davy, an English chemist. The "i-u-m" ending is typical of many metallic elements.
2. Chloro-: The prefix "chloro-" is derived from the Greek word "chlōros", meaning "pale green" or "yellowish-green". It indicates the presence of chlorine.
3. -Hydrate: The suffix "-hydrate" is derived from the Greek word "hudratos", meaning "water", and denotes a compound that contains water molecules within its structure.
