Sodium Bisulphate
Sodium Bisulphate, also known as sodium hydrogen sulphate, is a white crystalline powder or granular solid commonly used as an acidic cleaning agent, pH adjuster, and bleaching accelerator. It is a dry acid that releases sulfur dioxide when dissolved in water, making it effective in various industrial, food, and water treatment applications. This compound is valued for its ability to lower pH safely and is widely used where a controlled acidification is required without handling hazardous liquid acids.
Uses
Primary UsesÂ
- Water Treatment
- Used to lower pH in swimming pools, cooling towers, and industrial water systems to prevent scaling and corrosion.
- Acts as a disinfectant booster by creating acidic conditions that improve sanitizer efficiency.
- Cleaning Industry
- Employed as a descaling and cleaning agent for removing mineral deposits, rust, and stains from metal surfaces and equipment.
- Used in household cleaning products, especially in toilet bowl cleaners and bathroom cleaners, due to its acidic nature.
- Food & Beverage Industry
- Used as an acidulant and pH control agent in food processing, especially in baking powders and certain beverages.
- Serves as a leavening acid in combination with sodium bicarbonate in baking applications.
- Industrial Applications
- Utilized in textile and leather processing for pH adjustment.
- Acts as a bleaching accelerator in detergent formulations.
Secondary Uses
- Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Incorporated in certain cosmetic formulations to adjust acidity and preserve product stability.
- Agriculture
- Used to acidify soil in controlled applications, promoting nutrient availability for certain crops.
- Laboratory & Analytical Uses
Employed as a reagent for acidification in chemical analyses.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Sodium bisulfate (Sodium hydrogen sulfate)
- Common/Trade Name: Sodium Bisulphate
- CAS Number: 7681-38-1
- HS Code: 2833.29
- Synonyms: Sodium hydrogen sulfate, dry acid, sodium bisulfate
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Solid powder or granules
- Color & Odor: White, odorless
- Solubility: Soluble in water, releasing acidic solutions
- pH: Approximately 1–2 in aqueous solution (acidic)
- Density: Approx. 2.66 g/cm³
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Corrosive to skin and eyes
- Toxicity: Moderate; can cause burns on contact
- Exposure Limits: Use with adequate ventilation; avoid inhalation and contact
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture and incompatible substances such as alkalis
- Container Type: Bags or sealed drums
- Shelf Life: Typically 1–2 years when stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Use protective gloves, goggles, and clothing; avoid dust inhalation
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with industrial chemical safety standards (e.g., REACH, OSHA)
- Approved for food additive use in regulated quantities (where applicable)
- Meets environmental regulations for handling acidic chemicals
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Inorganic compound; does not biodegrade but is environmentally stable
- Ecotoxicity: Can be harmful in large quantities due to acidity
Bioaccumulation: Not significant
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Acid-resistant gloves, eye protection, protective clothing, and dust masks recommended
- Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid skin and eye contact; prevent dust formation
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and stored in a dry environment
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek medical attention if respiratory irritation develops
- Skin Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water; seek medical help if burns or irritation persist
- Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; get urgent medical attention
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water; do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical assistance
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable but can release sulfur dioxide upon decomposition
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚ for surrounding fires
- Special Precautions: Use protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus when fighting fires
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Sulfur oxides (SOx)