Sodium thiocyanate is an odorless white solid. Sinks and mixes with water. (USCG, 1999)Sodium thiocyanate is an organic sodium salt which is the monosodium salt of thiocyanic acid. It contains a thiocyanate.Sodium thiocyanate solution (56% or less) is an odorless clear to pale yellow liquid. (USCG, 1999)
Physical & Chemical Properties
Molecular FormulaNaSCN
Density:1.7g/cm³g/cm³
Boiling Point:
Solubility:Soluble in water and ethanol.
Molecular Weight:81.1g/mol
Flash Point:
Melting Point:
Uses
1. Used as a chemical analysis reagent, spinning solvent for polyacrylonitrile fibers, developer for color motion picture films, defoliant for certain plants, etc.
2. Used for converting halogenated hydrocarbons into the corresponding thiocyanates.
3. Used as a herbicide for airport runways.
4. Also used in pharmaceuticals, printing and dyeing, rubber treatment, black nickel plating and the manufacture of artificial mustard oil.
Safety, Security & Risk
Upon heating, it decomposes and produces toxic fumes containing sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, sodium oxide and cyanides.It reacts violently with acids, strong bases and strong oxidizing agents.