A hard, thermoplastic white powder that used as a drier, thickener, emulsifier, and matting agent in paints and varnishes; excess amounts produce soft, noncohesive films. Aluminum stearate is also used to waterproof fabrics, ropes, paper, leather, concrete, and stucco. It is used as an ingredient in photographic emulsions. It forms gels with turpentine, mineral spirits, and oils.
