Sodium Thiosulphate Pentahydrate
Sodium Thiosulphate Pentahydrate (Na₂S₂O₃·5H₂O) is a white crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. It is commonly used as a photographic fixer, reducing agent, and in water treatment processes. This 25kg packaged product contains five molecules of water of crystallization, which makes it more stable and easier to handle in industrial and laboratory applications. It is widely used to dechlorinate water, remove heavy metals, and in analytical chemistry for iodometric titrations.
Uses
Primary Uses
Photographic Industry
- Fixer Agent: Removes unexposed silver halides from photographic films and papers to stabilize images.
Water Treatment
- Dechlorination: Neutralizes chlorine and chloramine residuals in drinking and wastewater treatment.
- Heavy Metal Detoxification: Precipitates heavy metals in water to reduce toxicity.
Chemical Industry
- Reducing Agent: Used in various chemical synthesis and redox reactions.
- Complexing Agent: Binds with heavy metals to facilitate removal.
Medical Field
- Antidote: Treats cyanide poisoning by converting cyanide to less toxic thiocyanate.
- Topical Applications: Used in some dermatological treatments.
Laboratory & Research
- Analytical Reagent: Widely used in iodometric titrations and other quantitative analyses.
Mining Industry
- Gold Extraction: Used to detoxify cyanide solutions in gold mining processes.
Secondary Uses
Photography
- Bleach Fix: Component in bleach-fix baths for color photographic processing.
Environmental Applications
Effluent Treatment: Detoxifies industrial wastewater containing chlorine and heavy metals.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate
- Common/Trade Name: Sodium thiosulphate pentahydrate
- CAS Number: 10102-17-7
- HS Code: 2841.40.00
- Synonyms: Sodium hyposulfite pentahydrate
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: White crystalline solid
- Color & Odor: White; odorless
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water (~70 g/100 mL at 20°C)
- Density: Approximately 1.67 g/cm³
- Melting Point: Decomposes above 48°C (loss of crystallization water)
- pH (1% solution): Neutral to slightly alkaline (7-9)
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous under normal conditions
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; oral LDâ‚…â‚€ > 3000 mg/kg (rat)
- Exposure Limits: No specific limits; general dust precautions advised
- Corrosivity: Non-corrosive
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from acids and moisture
- Container Type: 25kg PE-lined bags or plastic drums
- Shelf Life: 24 months if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid dust generation; use PPE as needed
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- REACH Registered
- FDA Approved for specific uses
- Complies with OSHA Hazard Communication Standard
- Not classified as dangerous goods for transport
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Inorganic salt; not biodegradable but environmentally safe in typical use
- Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic organisms
- Bioaccumulation: None expected
Aquatic Impact: Excessive discharge may alter water chemistry
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves, dust mask, goggles recommended during handling
- Handling Guidelines: Use local exhaust ventilation to minimize dust
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and dry
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms develop
- Skin Contact: Wash skin with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse with plenty of water for 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice if large amounts ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable; does not support combustion
- Extinguishing Media: Use extinguishing media suitable for surrounding fire
Hazardous Combustion Products: May release sulfur oxides if heated strongly