In terms of types, aluminum sulfate is principally offered in two chemical forms: anhydrous (Al₂(SO₄)₃) and hydrated (commonly the octadecahydrate, Al₂(SO₄)₃·18H₂O). The anhydrous variant, supplied as a fine powder, is favored in high‑temperature processes such as certain cement formulations where moisture content must be minimized. Conversely, the hydrated form—available in granular or powdered grades—dominates the market, representing roughly 80 % of shipments, because its solubility profile aligns with the aqueous environments of water treatment and paper production. Sub‑categories within the hydrated grade include technical‑grade (lower purity, cost‑effective for bulk flocculation) and food‑grade (higher purity, meeting stringent contaminant limits for applications in food‑contact paper). Each type’s price point, handling characteristics, and purity requirements dictate its share of the overall aluminum sulfate market, influencing both upstream supply chain logistics and downstream end‑use economics.