Sodium Thiosulfate

Product Description

Sodium Thiosulfate 

 Sodium Thiosulfate is a widely used chemical compound with the formula 

a2S2O3Na2S2O3‹…5H2Na2S2O3Na_2S_2O_3Na2S2O3

• Molecular Weight:
  • Anhydrous: 158.11 g/mol
  • Pentahydrate: 248.18 g/mol
• Appearance:
  • Anhydrous: White powder
  • Pentahydrate: Colorless, crystalline solid
• Solubility: Highly soluble in water
• pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline in aqueous solutions
• Decomposition: Releases sulfur dioxide upon heating

Applications of Sodium Thiosulfate

1. Medical Uses

• Antidote for Cyanide Poisoning:
  • Converts cyanide into thiocyanate, a less toxic substance, aiding in detoxification.
• Topical Treatment:
  • Treats fungal infections like ringworm and other skin conditions.
• Detoxifying Agent:
  • Used for its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects in some therapies.

2. Water Treatment

• Dechlorination:
  • Neutralizes chlorine in drinking water, swimming pools, and aquariums, ensuring safety for consumption and aquatic life.
• Wastewater Treatment:
  • Reduces heavy metal toxicity and neutralizes oxidizing agents in effluents.

3. Photography

• Functions as a fixer to dissolve unreacted silver halides, stabilizing photographic images.

4. Analytical Chemistry

• Iodometric Titrations:
  • Used as a titrant in redox reactions for determining oxidizing agents like iodine.

5. Gold and Silver Extraction

• Serves as an effective leaching agent in mining operations, providing an alternative to more hazardous chemicals like cyanide.

6. Industrial Applications

• Utilized in textile and paper industries for bleaching and dyeing processes.

Benefits

• Highly effective in neutralizing harmful substances.
• Non-toxic and safe for use in controlled applications.
• Cost-effective and widely available.

Storage and Handling

• Storage:
  • Keep in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat sources.
  • Use airtight containers to prevent caking and degradation.
• Precautions:
  • Avoid inhalation or ingestion.
  • Wear protective gear, including gloves and goggles, during handling.

Safety Information

• Hazards:
  • Mildly irritating to skin and eyes.
  • Large doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
• First Aid:
  • Skin Contact: Rinse with water and soap.
  • Eye Contact: Flush with water for several minutes.
  • Ingestion: Seek medical attention if consumed in large quantities.

Conclusion

Sodium Thiosulfate is an essential and versatile chemical with applications spanning healthcare, photography, environmental management, and industrial processes. Its safety, effectiveness, and ease of use make it a preferred choice for professionals and industries worldwide. With proper storage and handling, it delivers consistent results across various applications.