Introduction

Sodium Sulfide (Na₂S) is a pivotal industrial chemical with applications spanning water treatment, textiles, leather production, and chemical manufacturing. Known for its strong reducing properties and versatility, this compound plays a critical role in processes requiring purification, metal precipitation, and sustainable production.

What is Sodium Sulfide?

Sodium Sulfide (chemical formula: Na₂S) is a yellow-to-red crystalline solid that dissolves readily in water, forming a highly alkaline solution. It releases hydrogen sulfide gas (H₂S) upon exposure to moisture, giving it a distinctive pungent odor. Available in anhydrous and hydrated forms, sodium sulfide is prized for its reactivity as a reducing agent and its role in industrial purification processes.

Properties of Sodium Sulfide

• Chemical Formula: Na₂S
• Molecular Weight: 78.04 g/mol (anhydrous form)
• Appearance: Yellow to red flakes or granules, varying with impurities and hydration level
• Solubility: Highly soluble in water, producing a strongly alkaline solution
• Odor: Characterized by a pungent smell due to hydrogen sulfide gas
• Reactivity: Reacts with acids to produce hydrogen sulfide gas and with oxidizing agents and atmospheric moisture

Applications and Uses of Sodium Sulfide

Sodium sulfide’s unique properties make it indispensable in a variety of industries. Below are its major applications:

1. Pulp and Paper Industry

• The Kraft process employs Na₂S to dissolve the natural binder in wood, lignin, which separates the cellulose fibers. It provides a product that is very suitable for high-quality paper products ranging from packaging materials to printing papers for commercial use.

2. Water Treatment

• It effectively precipitates heavy metals as insoluble sulfides in wastewater treatment and is thus used for the removal of heavy metals. It acts as an oxygen scavenger, thus preventing corrosion in water systems. For this reason, it has become indispensable at municipal and industrial water treatment centers.

3. Textile Industry

• It serves in textiles as a degumming and desulfurizing agent. It removes sulfur impurities and neutralizes chlorine-based bleaching agents to ensure superior fabric quality with minimum environmental impact. This contributes to more sustainable and efficient textile production processes.

4. Leather Industry

• The tanning process of leather production uses Na₂S, which acts in the depolymerization of proteins, thus removing hair from animal hides to produce soft and high-quality leather for clothing, furniture, and accessories.

5. Chemical Manufacturing

• Na₂S is essential in producing sulfur dyes and rubber chemicals. It enhances rubber elasticity and provides durable, colorfast dyes for textiles and industrial products, ensuring longevity and performance.

Grades of Sodium Sulfide for Industrial Use

Flake Sodium Sulfide (60–70% Purity)

• Uses: Papermaking, leather tanning, water treatment.
• Benefits: High chemical stability, easy handling, cost-effective.

Granular Sodium Sulfide

• Uses: Mining, oil recovery.
• Benefits: Low dust, and improved flowability for automated systems.

Low-Iron Sodium Sulfide

• Uses: Dye and pigment manufacturing.
• Benefits: Minimizes contamination risk for vibrant, consistent colors.

Technical Grade Sodium Sulfide

• Uses: Mineral flotation, crude oil processing.
• Benefits: Budget-friendly for high-volume industrial processes.

Sodium Sulfide Solution

• Uses: Direct application in water treatment, and chemical synthesis.
• Benefits: Convenient, ready-to-use liquid form.

Production Process

Na₂S is industrially produced through the reduction of sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄) with a carbon source like coal or coke at high temperatures (1000–1200°C), yielding sodium sulfide and carbon dioxide:

Na₂SO₄ + 2C → Na₂S + 2CO₂

An alternative method involves reacting sodium hydroxide (NaOH) with hydrogen sulfide (H₂S):

2NaOH + H₂S → Na₂S + 2H₂O

These methods ensure a steady supply for industries requiring this essential chemical.

Packaging and Storage

• Packaging: Polyethylene-lined woven bags or steel drums (25–1,000 kg).
• Storage: Keep in cool, dry, ventilated areas away from moisture and incompatible substances (acids, oxidizers).
• Safety Compliance: Label with UN 1849 and follow local hazardous material regulations.

Safety Considerations

• PPE: Wear chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection.
• Ventilation: Ensure workspace airflow to prevent H₂S gas accumulation.
• Spill Response: Use absorbents (e.g., sand) and dispose of waste per EPA guidelines.
• First Aid: Flush skin/eyes with water for 15 minutes; seek medical help if exposed

Why Choose Sodium Sulfide?

Sodium sulfide’s unique combination of reducing power, cost efficiency, and versatility makes it indispensable across industries. From purifying wastewater to manufacturing durable textiles, Na₂S delivers consistent performance when handled responsibly.

Partner with trusted suppliers like ZÜMRÜT International Kimya Co. for high-purity sodium sulfide tailored to your industrial needs.

TECHNICAL DATASHEET

SPECIFICATIONS	RESULTS
Appearance	Yellow Flakes
Na2S, %	60 ± 2
Na2SO3, %	< 2
Na2CO3, %	< 0.5
Fe, ppm	< 10
Insoluble Content, %	< 12
Density, g/ cmᵌ	1600
Melting Point, ℃	92

 

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