Tuesday, July 29, 2014

What is Sodium Hydrosulfite?

Sodium Hydrosulfite is a chemical used in the production of many household products. This versatile compound is in high demand because of its increasing popularity. The chemical formula for this compound is, NaHSO3. In structure, it is the sodium salt of dithionic acid, also known as sodium dithionate.

Some of the most common industries that rely on this chemical for the production of their products are; textiles, dying processes, chemical processing, leather, photographic, polymers, gas purification, etc. This compound is also used for carrying out physiology experiments.

Most commonly, this chemical performs the following roles:

Reducing Agent: When this compound works as a reducing agent, it chemically reduces other components by donating an electron or electrons. 

Sulfonating Agent: In this role, it adds sulfur to another chemical compound.

Cation Source: When it works as a cation source, it adds a cation or sodium, to the product system.

Sodium Hydrosulfite: Is considered an inexpensive and safe reducing agent for the reduction of vat dyes and sulfur containing dyes. On the other hand, it’s also used as bleaching agent in reductive bleaching processes. If stored and kept with caution, it has a shelf life of over 12 months.
 
Usage of this chemical requires many safety precautions such as:
  • You must use this chemical with proper ventilation.
  • Keep it away from heat and water.
  • No inhalation.
  • Store it in a cool and dry area.
When buying this chemical, make sure that you buy it from a reliable vendor that processes it in compliance, to ensure that it meets with the industrial standards. You can purchase this chemical in the form of white crystalline powder. Shipping of this chemical is an important aspect, and it should be performed under appropriate caution.

Perform a reputation check of the vendor, and get everything sorted out, before you make the final decision. Get in touch with the concerned officials, if you have any doubts or questions left.

Safety precautions for workers: Usage of this chemical is intended for industrial use only. Workers conducting the production of this chemical should work under controlled conditions. Worker must use personal protective equipments to ensure their health and safety.

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