Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly (AZT) is a widely used active ingredient in antiperspirant and deodorant products. It is a derivative of Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrate, where some of the water molecules have been displaced by glycine, calcium glycinate, magnesium glycinate, potassium glycinate, sodium glycinate, or zinc glycinate. This compound is known for its effectiveness in controlling sweat and odor by blocking sweat gland activity. It encompasses a range of aluminum-to-zirconium atomic ratios between 2.0:1 and 5.99:1 and a range of (aluminum plus zirconium)-to-chloride atomic ratios between 1.5:1 and 0.9:1. It contains not less than 90.0 percent and not more than 110.0 percent of the labeled amount of anhydrous aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrate.
Chemical Properties
Appearance: AZT can appear as a white to yellow-brown solid or as a colorless to yellow-brown liquid.
Solubility: It is soluble in water, which makes it suitable for use in aqueous solutions and formulations.
Stability: AZT is stable under normal conditions, but it can be irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system in its solid form
pH: The pH of a 1% water solution at 25°C is between 3.0 and 5.0.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
Ecological Impact: AZT may pose a hazard to the environment, particularly to water bodies, and should be handled with care to prevent environmental contamination.
Biodegradability: It is biodegradable, which is an important consideration for its environmental impact.
Heavy Metals and Arsenic: The compound is tested for heavy metals and arsenic, with limits set to ensure safety. For instance, the limit for heavy metals is not more than 20 µg per g, and for arsenic, it is not more than 3 µg per g.
Applications
Cosmetics and Personal Care: AZT is primarily used in antiperspirant and deodorant products. It effectively controls sweat and odor by temporarily blocking the sweat glands, reducing the amount of sweat that reaches the skin's surface.
Industrial Uses: Beyond personal care, AZT is also used in various industrial applications, such as in the treatment of textiles and as a component in some types of adhesives and sealants.
Packaging and Storage
AZT should be stored in well-closed containers to maintain its stability and prevent contamination. This is particularly important for maintaining the quality of the product over time.
Labeling
The label of AZT products should state the form of glycine used and the claimed content of anhydrous aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrate. This information is crucial for users to understand the composition and concentration of the product.
Identification Tests
Several identification tests are used to confirm the presence and quality of AZT in a sample. These include tests for chloride, the presence of specific solvents like propylene glycol or dipropylene glycol, and the reaction with ninhydrin to produce a deep violet color, indicating the presence of glycine.
Regulatory Compliance
Cosmetics: AZT is listed in the Cosmetics Ingredient Review (CIR) as a safe and effective ingredient for use in antiperspirant and deodorant products. It is also included in the European Union's Cosmetic Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, where it is permitted for use in antiperspirant products with specific concentration limits.
Maximum Usage Levels: In the United States, the maximum usage level for AZT in antiperspirant products is 20% (as anhydrous aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrate) and 5.4% (as zirconium). Similar limits apply in the European Union.
Conclusion
Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly is a versatile and effective compound used primarily in personal care products for its antiperspirant and deodorant properties. Its chemical stability, solubility, and the ability to control sweat make it a popular choice in the formulation of these products. However, its potential environmental impact and the need for proper storage and labeling are important considerations for its safe and effective use.