Thiosulfuric Acid, Disodium Salt

Product Description

Thiosulfuric Acid, Disodium Salt (Na2S2O3), commonly known as Sodium Thiosulphate, is a chemical compound formed by the combination of thiosulfuric acid and sodium. This compound appears as a white crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water and commonly used in various industrial, chemical, and laboratory applications.

Key Characteristics:

• Chemical Formula: Na2S2O3
• Appearance: White crystalline powder or colorless solution.
• Solubility: Soluble in water; forms an aqueous solution that is alkaline in nature.

Key Applications:

1. Water Treatment: Sodium Thiosulphate is often used in water treatment processes to neutralize chlorine and chloramine. It is also utilized in the purification of drinking water and in swimming pools for dechlorination.

2. Photography: It is used in the photographic industry, particularly in the fixing process, to remove unexposed silver halides from photographic films and prints. This step makes the image permanent and stable.

3. Gold Extraction: In gold mining, sodium thiosulphate is an alternative to cyanide in the extraction of gold from ores. It is less toxic and more environmentally friendly, which makes it a safer choice for extracting gold.

4. Chemical Reactions: It serves as a reducing agent in chemical syntheses and is employed in the preparation of other chemicals, such as in the synthesis of sodium bisulfite and in some organic reactions.

5. Medicinal Uses: Sodium thiosulphate has been explored for its potential in treating certain types of poisoning, such as cyanide poisoning, by neutralizing the toxic effects.

6. Textile Industry: It is used in the textile industry for dyeing processes, helping in the removal of excess dyes and bleaching agents.

Safety and Handling:

• Handling: While generally safe, sodium thiosulphate should be handled with care, as it can irritate the eyes and skin. Always follow proper safety protocols.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from incompatible materials. Proper sealing and labeling are important to avoid contamination.

Sodium thiosulphate, or Thiosulfuric Acid Disodium Salt, is essential in numerous industries due to its versatile chemical properties and cost-effectiveness. Whether for environmental purposes, chemical production, or even in the medical field, its applications continue to be significant.