White monoclinic crystals or crystalline powder with a slight odour of sulfur dioxide.Aqueous solution is weakly acidic (pH ≈ 4.5).Unstable in air, readily oxidized slowly to sodium sulfate with release of SO₂.Decomposes rapidly in contact with strong acids, producing toxic sulfur dioxide gas.
Physical & Chemical Properties
Molecular FormulaNaHO3S
Density:1.34g/cm³g/cm³
Boiling Point:104℃
Solubility:Freely soluble in water, slightly soluble in alcohol and diethyl ether.
Molecular Weight:104.06g/mol
Flash Point:
Melting Point:<-5℃
Uses
1. Food industry: As a food additive (E222), it is used as a bleaching agent, preservative and antioxidant in candied fruits, fruit wines, biscuits, starch products, etc., to inhibit browning and extend shelf life.
2. Industrial field: Bleaching agent for textile and paper making, reducing agent for printing and dyeing, dechlorinating agent for water treatment, flue gas desulfurizer, electroplating additive, reducing agent for organic synthesis.
3. Pharmaceutical field: Pharmaceutical intermediate, antioxidant for injections, stabilizer for cosmetics.
4. Agricultural field: Photorespiration inhibitor to improve the photosynthetic efficiency of crops.
Safety, Security & Risk
Chemical Hazards
Upon heating and contact with acids, the substance decomposes to form sulfur oxides.It reacts with acids and strong oxidizing agents.There is a fire risk.The substance is a weak acid.It corrodes metals.