Aluminium Acetate Mordant
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Description
Also known as aluminium diacetate
Aluminium acetate is one of the most effective mordants for cellulose fibres such as cotton, linen, and hemp. It binds strongly to plant fibres, helping dyes adhere better and improving both wash and light fastness. It is often used in a two-step process with a tannin mordant to create bright, durable shades on cellulose, though it can also be used on its own.
Historical Note
The first recorded description of aluminium acetate mordanting comes from Claude-Louis Berthollet (1748–1822), a French chemist and dyer. In his 1791 work Éléments de l’art de la teinture, Berthollet described methods of preparing aluminium salts, including alumina combined with acetic acid, and their use in mordanting cloth. His observations helped shift natural dyeing into a more scientific practice during the late 18th century.
Active Component
Aluminium acetate (a crystalline salt of aluminium and acetic acid).
Advantages
- Excellent for cellulose fibres (cotton, linen, hemp, viscose, Tencel).
- Produces bright, clear colours, especially with yellows and reds.
- Stronger bonding than alum alone.
- DIY option: aluminium acetate can be made from scratch by reacting alum with washing soda and vinegar (acetic acid), but this crystalline product is far more reliable, consistent, and easy to use.
Source
Produced as a crystalline salt for professional dyeing applications.
Safety & handling
For textile dyeing and craft use only. Not for food, cosmetic, medical or household-cleaning use.
- Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Powder and solutions may cause irritation.
- Do not release concentrated product or spent mordant baths into drains, soil or waterways.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Avoid creating or breathing dust. Measure carefully in a well-ventilated work area and use suitable respiratory protection for fine particulates when dust cannot be avoided.
- Wear suitable protective gloves, protective clothing and eye protection. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
- Do not eat, drink or smoke while using this product. Use dedicated tools and containers that will never be used for food.
- Store tightly closed, dry, clearly labelled and away from food, drink and incompatible materials.
- Eyes: Rinse cautiously with clean water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if easy to do and continue rinsing. Seek urgent medical advice for persistent irritation, pain or impaired vision.
- Swallowed or inhaled: Move to fresh air after inhalation. If swallowed, rinse the mouth and contact a poison centre or medical professional; do not induce vomiting unless instructed.
Important: Follow the package label and the current Safety Data Sheet for the exact product. Formal hazard classification can depend on chemical form, hydration, purity and composition. For the latest safety documentation, contact info@naturaldyestore.com.
Seller and safety contact: Natural Dye Store, Derech HaMaccabim 58, Rishon LeZion, Israel · info@naturaldyestore.com














