Sodium Sulphate
Salt Cake, Disodium Sulphate, Thenardite (mineral form).
- CAS
- 7757-82-6
- EC
- 231-820-9
- Sectors
- Home Care & Industrial Cleaning, Textiles, Leather & Paper
Sodium Sulphate (CAS 7757-82-6) is an inorganic salt, the anhydrous form of Glauber's salt, supplied as a white crystalline solid or fine powder; it is water-soluble and acts as a filler in powder detergents, a leveling agent in textile dyeing, and a process aid in paper pulping. It is chemically very stable and highly soluble in water, making it a nearly universal filler and process aid.
In the detergent industry, it is primarily used as a filler in powder detergents, providing bulk and ensuring the flowability of the product. Its inert nature allows it to be used in high concentrations without reacting with active surfactants or builders, maintaining the physical integrity of the detergent.
The product plays a critical role in the Kraft process of paper pulping and acts as a fining agent in the glass industry to remove small air bubbles. Its consistent pH neutrality and purity make it a reliable standardized ingredient for textiles, where it promotes even dye absorption.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | H2O4S.2Na |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 142.04 g/mol |
| Appearance | Sodium sulfate is a white crystalline solid. It frequently is found as the decahydrate |
| Form | powder (fine) |
| Color | White |
| Odor | wh. cryst. or powd., odorless, bitter saline taste |
| Melting point | 888 °C |
| Boiling point | 1700°C |
| Density | 2.671 g/cm³ |
| Water solubility | 18.5 mg/L |
| pH | 5.2-8.0 (50g/l, H2O, 20°C) |
| HS code | 28331100 |
| Grades available | Technical Grade, Food 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 Sulphate
Applications
- Detergents: Acts as a cost-effective filler and processing aid in powdered laundry detergents to prevent clumping and maintain flow.
- Glass Manufacture: Functions as a fining agent in the melting process to help remove air bubbles and prevent scum formation.
- Textile Dyeing: Used as a "leveling" agent to reduce negative charges on fibers, allowing dyes to penetrate more evenly and deeply.
Safety & Risks
Considered Non-Hazardous under GHS. However, excessive dust inhalation should be avoided; use Standard PPE including Safety Glasses and Dust Masks.
Packaging
25 kg Woven Bags, 50 kg Bags, and 1000 kg/1200 kg Jumbo Bags.