Sodium Bisulphate

Sodium Bisulphate, also known as Sodium Hydrogen Sulphate (NaHSO₄), is a dry, crystalline, granular acid salt with acidic properties. It is commonly referred to as “dry acid” and is used as a pH reducer in various industries. It is widely employed in water treatment, cleaning, and industrial processes due to its ease of use and stability compared to liquid acids.

Applications:

1. Water Treatment:
   • pH Reduction: Used in swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs to lower the pH and alkalinity of water, making it ideal for maintaining water chemistry.
2. Industrial Cleaning:
   • Descaling Agent: Used for removing scale, rust, and mineral deposits from equipment and surfaces in industrial settings.
3. Food Processing:
   • Food Additive (E514): Utilized as an acidulant in the food industry to adjust the pH of processed foods and beverages.
4. Metal Finishing:
   • Pickling Agent: Applied in metal processing to clean and prepare surfaces by removing oxidation, scale, or rust.
5. Household Cleaning Products:
   • Bathroom and Tile Cleaners: Included in acidic cleaning formulations for dissolving soap scum, mineral deposits, and hard water stains.
6. Agriculture:
   • Soil Amendment: Can be used to lower soil pH, especially in alkaline soils, promoting better nutrient uptake by plants.

Handling and Safety:

• Personal Protection:
  • Use protective gloves, eye protection, and appropriate clothing to avoid direct skin and eye contact.
  • In case of dust, wear a dust mask or respirator to prevent inhalation.
• Hazards:
  • Inhalation: Inhalation of dust can cause irritation to the respiratory system.
  • Skin Contact: May cause irritation or burns if in contact with skin for prolonged periods.
  • Eye Contact: Can cause severe irritation and potential eye damage.
  • Ingestion: Harmful if swallowed. May cause gastrointestinal irritation or discomfort.
• Precautions:
  • Use in well-ventilated areas to minimize exposure to dust.
  • Avoid mixing with strong bases, as this may cause a violent reaction.
  • Prevent exposure to moisture before use, as it may form a corrosive solution.
• Spill Response:
  • Sweep up and place in suitable containers for proper disposal.
  • Avoid generating dust and prevent spills from entering waterways.

Storage:

• Storage Conditions:
  • Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from moisture and direct sunlight.
  • Avoid contact with incompatible materials such as strong bases, oxidizers, and reactive metals (like aluminum and magnesium), as it may cause corrosive reactions.
• Container Requirements:
  • Store in corrosion-resistant containers such as plastic or coated steel.
  • Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent exposure to air and moisture, which can lead to clumping or degradation.
• Stability:
  • Sodium Bisulphate is stable under normal conditions but can become corrosive in humid environments or when dissolved in water. Ensure the storage area is free from excessive moisture.

By following proper handling and storage procedures, Sodium Bisulphate (Dry Acid) can be safely used in a variety of applications, including pH control, cleaning, and industrial processes.