Sodium Cyanate
Cyanic Acid Sodium Salt, NaOCN.
- CAS
- 917-61-3
- EC
- 213-030-6
- Sectors
- Agriculture, Pharma & Healthcare, Lubricants & Metalworking
Sodium Cyanate (CAS 917-61-3) is the inorganic sodium salt of cyanic acid, supplied as a white crystalline powder or chunks, and it is used as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of carbamate and urea herbicides, pharmaceutical precursors, and in salt bath heat treatment of steel. It is primarily utilized in its Technical Grade for the production of herbicides and various pharmaceutical precursors.
In the agricultural sector, it serves as a base for synthesizing urea-based herbicides and plant growth regulators. The product's consistent chemical profile allows for high-yield reactions, making it a staple for large-scale agrochemical production facilities.
It is also employed in the steel industry for the salt bath heat treatment of metals to improve surface hardness. Its high thermal stability and reactivity make it ideal for the case-hardening of steel parts in automotive and industrial machinery applications.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | CHNO.Na |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 65.01 g/mol |
| Appearance | white powder or crystals |
| Form | Crystalline Powder and/Chunks |
| Color | White to light yellow or light beige |
| Melting point | 550 °C |
| Density | 1.893 g/cm³ @ Temp: 204 °C |
| Water solubility | 110 g/L (20 °C) |
| GHS signal word | Warning · Irritant / harmful, Health hazard |
| HS code | 28380000 |
| Grades available | Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Sodium Cyanate
Applications
- [Agrochemical Synthesis]: Primary raw material for the production of carbamate and urea herbicides used in global crop protection.
- [Metal Heat Treatment]: Utilized in salt baths for the carbonitriding of steel to increase wear resistance and surface durability.
- [Pharmaceutical Production]: Acts as a reagent in the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds and various medicinal intermediates.
Safety & Risks
Classified as Acute Tox. 4; harmful if swallowed and may cause skin irritation. Wear Face Shields, Nitrile Gloves, and Protective Clothing to prevent accidental exposure.
Packaging
Available in 25 kg Plastic-lined Sacks and 50 kg Steel or Fiber Drums.