Aluminum Sulfate -50lb Bag

Aluminum Sulfate (Alum) – Standard Ground – 50 lb Bag

USALCO Standard Ground Aluminum Sulfate, commonly called alum, is a dry chemical coagulant supplied in a 50 lb (22.7 kg) bag. In pond and lake management, aluminum sulfate is used in properly planned treatments to help settle suspended clay particles and bind phosphorus.

Improper application can cause rapid water chemistry changes that may harm fish and other aquatic life.

Manufacturer: USALCO, LLC

Product form: Standard Ground aluminum sulfate

Package size: 50 lb (22.7 kg)

How Aluminum Sulfate Works

When aluminum sulfate is introduced into water, it reacts with components of the water and forms aluminum-containing compounds. Under suitable conditions, these reactions help destabilize fine suspended particles and form flocs that can settle from the water column. Aluminum compounds can also bind dissolved phosphorus, reducing its availability in the treated water.

Suspended Clay Clarification

Very fine clay particles can remain suspended in pond water for extended periods, creating a muddy appearance even when the water is otherwise relatively still. Alum can help these particles combine into larger aggregates that settle more readily.

Alum is most appropriate when the turbidity is caused by fine, electrically stabilized suspended particles. It will not correct an ongoing source of sediment entering the pond or constant bottom disturbance from fish, livestock, wind, or other activity.

Phosphorus Binding

Alum can also be used as part of a planned phosphorus management program. Aluminum compounds formed during treatment can bind phosphorus in the water and, under appropriate conditions, help limit phosphorus release from bottom sediments.

Phosphorus treatment is different from clay clarification. It requires a separate evaluation of nutrient conditions, treatment goals, water chemistry, and application requirements. Alum does not directly kill algae or aquatic weeds and does not eliminate ongoing nutrient inputs from the watershed.