Sodium Thiosulphate (Na₂S₂O₃), commonly known as sodium hyposulfite or "hypo," is a versatile inorganic compound with a wide array of applications across various industries. It typically appears as a white, translucent crystalline solid, readily soluble in water. Its unique chemical properties, particularly its reducing capabilities and ability to complex with metal ions, make it indispensable in fields ranging from photography and medicine to water treatment and chemical analysis. Sinopeakchem is a leading supplier of high-quality Sodium Thiosulphate, ensuring reliable supply for your industrial needs.
Sodium Thiosulphate exists in several hydrated forms, with the pentahydrate (Na₂S₂O₃·5H₂O) being the most common. It has a molecular weight of 248.18 g/mol for the pentahydrate form and a CAS number of 7772-98-7. Key properties include:
The broad utility of Sodium Thiosulphate stems from its unique chemical reactivity. Its applications are categorized by the specific industries it serves:
Historically, Sodium Thiosulphate has been most famous for its role as a fixing agent in silver-halide photographic processes. After exposure to light, silver halide crystals in film or photographic paper are reduced to metallic silver. The unexposed silver halides are then removed by the thiosulphate, which forms soluble silver thiosulphate complexes, thus "fixing" the image and making it permanent and light-stable. This process prevents further darkening of the image.
In water treatment, Sodium Thiosulphate acts as an antichlor, effectively neutralizing chlorine and chloramines in tap water, wastewater, and swimming pools. This is vital for protecting aquatic life, preventing the formation of harmful chlorinated byproducts, and preparing water for sensitive biological processes. It is also used to detoxify cyanide waste by converting it to less toxic thiocyanate.
Medically, Sodium Thiosulphate is an important antidote for cyanide poisoning and arsenic poisoning. It works by converting cyanide to thiocyanate, which is less toxic and can be excreted by the kidneys. It is also used in the treatment of calciphylaxis, a rare but severe complication of end-stage renal disease, and as an antifungal agent.
In analytical chemistry, Sodium Thiosulphate is a standard reagent for iodometric titrations. It is used to determine the concentration of oxidizing agents (like iodine) in a sample. The reaction involves the reduction of iodine to iodide ions, with thiosulphate being oxidized to tetrathionate.
Sodium Thiosulphate is generally considered safe, but proper handling is essential. It should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from strong acids, oxidizing agents, and heat, as it can decompose to release sulfur dioxide gas. Personal protective equipment, including gloves and eye protection, should be worn during handling. Ingestion or prolonged skin contact should be avoided. Sinopeakchem ensures that all our products, including Sodium Thiosulphate, meet stringent quality and safety standards, providing you with reliable and safe chemical solutions.
As a premier chemical supplier from China, Sinopeakchem is committed to providing high-quality Sodium Thiosulphate and a wide range of other industrial chemicals. Our advantages include:
Contact Sinopeakchem today for your Sodium Thiosulphate requirements and experience the difference of working with a trusted chemical partner.