When exposed to air, sodium hydrosulfite readily absorbs oxygen and oxidizes. It also absorbs moisture, generating heat and leading to deterioration. It can clump together while absorbing atmospheric oxygen and emit a pungent acidic odor.
Na₂S₂O₄ + 2H₂O + O₂ → 2NaHSO₄ + 2[H]
Heating or exposure to an open flame can cause combustion, with a spontaneous ignition temperature of 250°C. Contact with water releases a significant amount of heat and flammable gases such as hydrogen and hydrogen sulfide, leading to intense burning. When combined with oxidizing agents, small amounts of water, or moist air, sodium hydrosulfite can generate heat, emit yellow smoke, burn, or even explode.
With an impressively wide range of applications, sodium hydrosulfite is indispensable for bleaching textiles and paper, and is also used in food preservation. It also delivers outstanding performance in pharmaceutical synthesis, electronics cleaning, wastewater decolorization, and more. Click here to get high-quality service and a quote.