Product Description
Sodium Thiosulfate Anhydrous
Sodium Thiosulfate Anhydrous is a chemical compound with the formula a2S2O3Na2S2O3
5H2Na2S2O3Na_2S_2O_3Na2S2O3
- Molecular Weight: 158.11 g/mol
- Appearance: White crystalline solid or powder
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water
- pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline in aqueous solution
- Melting Point: 48C (118F)
- Decomposition: Upon heating, it releases sulfur dioxide gas.
Applications of Sodium Thiosulfate Anhydrous
1. Water Treatment
- Dechlorination:
- It is widely used in water treatment to neutralize chlorine, particularly in drinking water, swimming pools, and aquariums. It safely removes chlorine from water to make it safer for aquatic life and human consumption.
2. Photography and Film Processing
- Fixing Agent:
- Sodium Thiosulfate Anhydrous is used as a fixer in photography. It helps in removing the unexposed silver halides from photographic film, stabilizing the image and preventing further exposure to light.
3. Medical Uses
- Antidote for Cyanide Poisoning:
- Sodium Thiosulfate is used in combination with sodium nitrite as an antidote for cyanide poisoning. It works by converting cyanide to a less toxic substance, thiocyanate, which is then excreted from the body through urine.
4. Analytical Chemistry
- Redox Titrations:
- It is used in iodometric titrations, acting as a reducing agent. Sodium Thiosulfate Anhydrous can be employed to determine the concentration of oxidizing agents like iodine in various chemical analyses.
5. Gold and Silver Mining
- Leaching Agent:
- In the mining industry, Sodium Thiosulfate Anhydrous is used in the extraction of gold and silver. It serves as an environmentally friendly alternative to cyanide in gold leaching processes.
6. Textile Industry
- Bleaching and Dyeing:
- The compound is used in the textile industry for its ability to bleach fabrics and neutralize dyes, assisting in the finishing and treatment of textiles.
Benefits of Sodium Thiosulfate Anhydrous
- Safe: Non-toxic and safer than other more hazardous chemicals, such as cyanide, for certain industrial processes.
- Effective: Highly efficient in neutralizing chlorine and in photographic processing.
- Environmentally Friendly: It is a preferred option for gold and silver extraction due to its minimal environmental impact compared to cyanide.
Storage and Handling
- Storage:
- Store in a cool, dry place away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Use airtight containers to maintain its stability and avoid moisture absorption.
- Precautions:
- Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Wear protective gloves and eyewear when handling.
- Avoid inhalation of dust. Use in a well-ventilated area.
Safety Information
- Hazards:
- Sodium Thiosulfate Anhydrous is generally safe, but it can cause mild irritation to the skin and eyes upon direct contact.
- First Aid:
- Skin Contact: Wash immediately with soap and water.
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
- Ingestion: If swallowed, drink water and seek medical advice.
Conclusion
Sodium Thiosulfate Anhydrous is an essential and highly versatile compound used across multiple industries, including water treatment, photography, medicine, and mining. Its non-toxic nature, effective performance, and broad applicability make it a reliable choice for professionals worldwide. With proper handling and storage, Sodium Thiosulfate Anhydrous can be safely used in various demanding applications.