Name: Sodium Sulfate (Na2SO4)
SKU: 42629
Availability: InStock

Sodium Sulfate (Na2SO4)

£85.00

Sodium Sulfate (Na2SO4) is an inorganic compound that is widely used in various industries due to its unique properties and versatility. It is a white, odorless, and highly soluble powder that is commonly found in nature as the mineral mirabilite. One of the primary uses of sodium sulfate is in the manufacture of detergents and cleaning products. It acts as a builder, enhancing the effectiveness of surfactants and improving the overall cleaning power of these products. Additionally, it helps to soften water, reduce streaks, and prevent the formation of soap scum. Sodium sulfate is also used in the paper industry as a filler and coating pigment. It improves the opacity and brightness of paper, making it ideal for use in printing and writing papers. Furthermore, it is used in the production of glass, where it helps to reduce the melting point of silica and improve the clarity of the glass. In the textile industry, sodium sulfate is used as a dyeing agent, helping to fix and stabilize dyes on fabrics. It is also used in the production of dyes and pigments, where its high solubility and reactivity make it an ideal component. In addition to its industrial applications, sodium sulfate has several uses in the pharmaceutical and medical fields. It is used as an excipient in some medications, helping to improve the solubility and bioavailability of active ingredients. It is also used as a laxative, due to its ability to soften and bulk up stool, making it easier to pass. Overall, sodium sulfate is a versatile and widely used compound that plays a critical role in many different industries. Its unique properties and reactivity make it an essential component in the production of a wide range of products, from detergents and paper to glass and pharmaceuticals.

Description

Sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) is a versatile inorganic compound that plays a significant role in various industrial applications. Commonly encountered in its decahydrate form (Na2SO4·10H2O), also known as Glauber’s salt, it is renowned for its hygroscopic properties and solubility in water. Sodium sulfate is primarily produced through two methods: the naturally occurring mineral form known as mirabilite, and through the neutralization of sulfuric acid with sodium carbonate. Its chemical stability and non-toxicity make it an appealing choice for several applications, including in the manufacturing of glass, detergents, and textiles.

In the glass industry, sodium sulfate acts as a flux, lowering the melting temperature of raw materials and enhancing the overall quality of the glass. In detergents, it serves as a filler and helps stabilize the cleaning agents, making it a key component in many household cleaning products. Additionally, sodium sulfate is used in the paper industry, where it aids in the pulping process and improves the quality of the final product. The compound’s ability to absorb moisture also finds applications in drying agents and in certain chemical synthesis processes.

Beyond its industrial uses, sodium sulfate has found a place in biological and medical research. Its role in osmotic regulation has been studied, providing insights into cellular processes and potential therapeutic applications. Furthermore, the compound has been explored for its potential in solar energy systems, where its heat retention properties can contribute to efficient thermal energy storage. Overall, sodium sulfate’s multifaceted utility reflects its importance across a wide array of sectors, from manufacturing to research, emphasizing its value in both everyday products and advanced scientific applications.