Sodium Sulphite Anhydrous

SODIUM SULPHITE ANHYDROUS

Technical grade

Sodium sulphite anhydrous is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Na₂SO₃. It is a white crystalline powder or granular substance that is highly soluble in water and primarily used as a reducing agent, preservative, and oxygen scavenger across various industries. The "anhydrous" form indicates that it does not contain water of crystallization, making it more concentrated and efficient in specific applications.

Key Properties of Sodium Sulphite Anhydrous

• Chemical Formula: Na₂SO₃
• Appearance: White crystalline powder or granules.
• CAS No: 7757-83-7
• Other names: Sodium sulfite, Hypo Clear (photography)
• Density: 2.633 g/cm³
• Molecular weight: 126.043 g/mol
• Melting point: 500^oC
• Solubility: Highly soluble in water, forming a slightly alkaline solution. 67.8 g/100 g @20^oC
• Odour: Odourless or with a faint sulfur-like smell.
• Reducing Agent: Reacts readily with oxygen, making it effective as an oxygen scavenger.

Common Uses of Sodium Sulphite Anhydrous

1. Water Treatment

• Oxygen Scavenger: Used in boiler feedwater and industrial water treatment to remove dissolved oxygen and prevent corrosion of metal components.
• Dechlorination: Neutralizes residual chlorine in water systems to protect downstream processes and equipment.
• Used as a water treatment to reduce chlorine levels in pools.

2. Laboratory Reagent

• Used in the production of sodium thiosulphate
  
• Antioxidant: 

3. Photography

• Fixer in Developing Solutions: Used in traditional black-and-white photography as a reducing agent in the fixing bath to stabilize the image.
• To wash fixer, sodium thiosulphate from film and photopaper emulsions.

4. Pulp and Paper Industry

• Bleaching Agent: Used in the pulping process to bleach wood pulp and improve paper quality.

5. Textile Industry

• Dyeing and Bleaching: Helps maintain color integrity and prevent oxidation during the dyeing and bleaching processes.

6. Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals

• Intermediate: Used in the synthesis of certain pharmaceutical compounds.
• Reducing Agent: Acts as a mild reducing agent in chemical reactions.

7. Oil and Gas Industry

• Corrosion Control: Used to remove oxygen from drilling fluids and production water to prevent corrosion in pipelines and equipment.

8. Environmental Applications

• Effluent Treatment: Neutralizes and removes harmful chemicals like chromium or chlorine from industrial effluents before discharge.

Benefits of Sodium Sulphite Anhydrous

• Efficient Oxygen Scavenging: Protects equipment and systems from oxidative damage.
• Cost-Effective: Relatively inexpensive and effective in small quantities.
• Versatile: Applicable across multiple industries for varied purposes like preservation, reduction, and stabilization.

Safety and Handling

• Irritation: May cause irritation to the skin, eyes, or respiratory tract upon prolonged exposure.
• Inhalation: Dust can irritate the respiratory system; proper ventilation and protective equipment are advised.
• Environmental Impact: Improper disposal can affect aquatic ecosystems; handle and dispose of in compliance with local regulations.

Summary

Sodium sulphite anhydrous is a versatile chemical widely used as a reducing agent, preservative, and oxygen scavenger. Its applications span water treatment, food preservation, photography, and industrial processes like paper bleaching and textile dyeing. While it is highly effective, proper handling and adherence to safety guidelines are essential to maximize its benefits while minimizing risks.

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