[Chemical Knowledge]：The nature, use, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of sodium bisulfite, and what is sodium bisulfite used?

Sodium bisulfite properties

Sodium bisulfite (NaHSOL3) is an inorganic compound, usually in the form of white crystalline powder or granules, with a faint sulfur odor. Its molecular weight is 104.06g/mol, soluble in water, forming a weak acid solution. Due to its reductive nature, sodium bisulfite releases sulfur dioxide (SO₂) gas under acidic conditions, which reacts with a variety of oxidants to form sulfates. Its chemical reactivity makes it valuable in industrial applications.

Sodium bisulfite use

food industry

In the food industry, sodium bisulfite is widely used as a preservative and antioxidant, especially in the processing of fruits and vegetables, wine and fruit juices, which can effectively prevent oxidation and browning and prolong the shelf life of food. It is also used for flour bleaching and dried fruit preservation, which can maintain the color and flavor of food.

textile industry

Sodium bisulfite in the textile industry, mainly used in textile bleaching and dyeing process. It can effectively remove impurities and pigments on the fabric, making the fabric more white and soft. As a reducing agent for dyes, sodium bisulfite helps to improve the uniformity and fastness of dyeing and improve the quality of textiles.

paper industry

In the paper industry, sodium bisulfite is used as a bleaching agent and as a glue remover. It can effectively decompose the lignin in the wood pulp, make the pulp more white and pure, and improve the quality and brightness of the paper. Sodium bisulfite can also be used in the waste paper recycling process to help remove ink and impurities from the paper and improve the quality of recycled paper.

Chemical Applications

In the field of chemical industry, sodium bisulfite is an important reducing agent, which is often used in chemical synthesis and drug production. For example, in the pharmaceutical industry, sodium bisulfite is used to produce certain antibiotics and vitamins. It is also used as a wastewater treatment agent, which can effectively remove heavy metals and organic pollutants in wastewater and improve water quality.

Upstream and downstream raw materials

Upstream raw materials

The production of sodium bisulfite mainly depends on upstream raw materials such as sulfur, sulfur dioxide and sodium hydroxide. Sulfur is burned to produce sulfur dioxide gas, which reacts with water and sodium hydroxide to produce sodium bisulfite. Specific reactions are as follows: [\text{SO} 2 \text{H} 2\text{O} \text{NaOH} \rightarrow \text{NaHSO}_3]

Downstream Products

As an intermediate, sodium bisulfite can be used to produce other chemical products, such as sodium sulfate and sodium sulfite. It is also used in the preparation of various drugs, dyes, food additives and water treatment agents and other products. Diversified applications in downstream industries have led to a wide market demand for sodium bisulfite.

storage method

Sodium bisulfite is sensitive to humidity and air, and is prone to moisture absorption and oxidation, so special attention is required during storage. It should be stored in a dry, cool, well-ventilated environment, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures. Packaging containers should be well sealed to prevent moisture and air from entering. Storage areas should be kept away from acids and strong oxidants to prevent chemical reactions from causing hazards.

Packaging and Transportation

Sodium bisulfite is usually packaged in moisture-proof bags or plastic drums, plus cartons or woven bags for protection to prevent moisture or damage during transportation. Avoid violent vibration and collision during transportation, and handle with care during loading and unloading. According to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code), sodium bisulfite is a non-dangerous goods, but it still needs to be handled in accordance with the relevant requirements for the transportation of chemicals.

Market Prospects

With the continuous development of industry and environmental protection, the market demand for sodium bisulfite is increasing. In the context of increasingly stringent food safety and environmental regulations, it has broad market prospects as a safe and effective food additive and water treatment agent. With the continuous emergence of new materials and technologies, the application of sodium bisulfite in chemical synthesis, pharmaceuticals and other fields will continue to expand, promoting the further expansion of its market scale.

Conclusion

As an important chemical raw material, sodium bisulfite has a wide range of uses and market demand. In the process of production and application, it is necessary to strictly control its storage and transportation conditions to ensure product quality and safety. In the future, with the growth of industrial and environmental demand, sodium bisulfite will play an important role in more fields, and the market prospect is very broad. Through continuous technological innovation and market expansion, the sodium bisulfite industry is expected to achieve greater development and breakthroughs.