Tag Archives: Growing crystals

How to make Copper Sulphate

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This is an easy way to produce copper sulphate either at home, at school or in a laboratory.

Please note: As you will be working with hot water it is important that children are supervised at all times.

Ingredients needed to make your own copper sulphate crystals:

  • Copper carbonate or black copper oxide
  • Sulphuric acid
  • a clean beaker
  • A conical flask
  • A glass rod
  • A tripod
  • an evaporating dish
  • Gauze
  • Filter paper
  • A funnel
  • goggles
  • Gloves

Instructions on how to make copper sulphate:

  • Using gloves and goggles add sulphuric acid to copper carbonate or copper oxide until no more dissolves.
  • You will know when you have added enough as no more gas will be produced.
  • Filter the solution through the filter paper in a funnel onto an evaporating dish.
  • Heat the solution gently over a bunsen burner until most of the solution has evaporated and allow to cool.
  • crystals of copper sulphate will start to form on the dish.

Notes:

Always wear appropriate personal protection equipment when handling sulphuric acid as it is very corrosive.

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What is Potassium Sodium Tartrate and what is it used for ?

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potassium sodium tartrate

What is Potassium Sodium Tartrate

Potassium sodium tartrate tetrahydrate, commonly called Rochelle salt is an odourless, colourless to white crystalline solid with a salty taste. It is the double salt of tartaric acid. It is soluble in water but insoluble in alcohols. Potassium Sodium Tartrate is prepared from potassium bitartrate and sodium carbonate. Commercially it is produced as a by-product of the wine industry.

Properties and specification of Potassium Sodium Tartrate

  • Synonyms: Potassium Sodium Tartrate; E337; Seignette’s salt; Rochelle salt; Potassium sodium tartrate tetrahydrate; Potassium sodium 2,3-dihydroxysuccinate; L(+)-Tartaric acid potassium Sodium salt; butanedioic acid, 2,3-dihydroxy-, potassium sodium salt
  • CAS number: 304–59–6
  • EINECS: 206–156–8
  • Purity: >99%
  • Appearance: colourless / white crystalline solid
  • Formula:KNaC4H4O6.4H2O

    potassium sodium tartrate structure

  • Molecular weight: 282.1
  • pH: 7–8.5
  • Density: 1.79
  • Specific gravity: 2.75 g/cm3
  • Solubility in water: soluble 630g/L @20C
  • Melting point: 75C
  • Boiling point: 220C
  • Refractive index: 1.59
  • Oil Absorption: 37g/100g

The chemical composition of Potassium sodium tartrate tetrahydrate consists of Water 24.53%, Potassium 13.85%, Sodium 8.15% and Tartaric acid 53.17%. When heated it melts at 70–80C; at 100C it loses 3 water molecules and eventually becomes anhydrous at 130–140C; at 220C it begins to decompose. Potassium Sodium Tartrate has the linear formula KOCOCH(OH)CH(OH)C­OONa.4H2O

Where to Buy Potassium Sodium Tartrate GRG

How to make Potassium Sodium Tartrate crystals

The salt is prepared by adding 0.5M sodium carbonate to a hot solution of 1M potassium bitartrate (cream of Tartar). The solution is mixed thoroughly and then filtered while hot. This solution is then dried to precipitate solid potassium sodium tartrate, as small crystals.

Uses for Potassium Sodium Tartrate

As additive in food industry ( E337 ) where it acts as sequestrant, emulsifier, stabilizer, buffer and antioxidant in cheese products, margarine, jellies, jams, minced meat, and sausage casings.

In pharmacology it is used as saline cathartics (usual adult dose: 5–10g). potassium bitartrate is administered rectally as a suppository with sodium bicarbonate to produce carbon dioxide, which promotes defecation by distending the rectal ampulla; administered for relief of constipation, and evacuation of the colon before surgical or diagnostic procedures or childbirth. It is not to be used on persons with heart problems or those on low sodium diets.
Potassium Sodium Tartrate is also used for the removal of toxic materials in some cases of poisoning.

Other applications include the preparation of piezoelectric crystals used in electrical appliances; as a laxative; in the manufacture of mirrors; in the plating industry; as a laboratory reagent; in the preparation of Fehlings solution for the detection of aldehydes; and for delaying the quick-setting of gypsum .

Health & Safety

This substance is not classified as dangerous according to Directive 67/548/EEC.

For full details see MSDS for Potassium Sodium Tartrate

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Where to Buy Potassium Sodium Tartrate

Other Tartrate salts:

DiSodium Tartrate Dihydrate

Sodium hydrogen tartrate monohydrate – Sodium Bitartrate

Potassium Tartrate – Sodium Bitartrate

What is Magnesium Chloride Technical Grade and what is it used for ?

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magnesium chloride hexahydrate

magnesium chloride hexahydrate

What is Magnesium chloride hexahydrate

Magnesium chloride hexahydrate is a naturally occurring salt with the formula MgCl2 6(H2O). It is mostly produced from sea water and in particular the Dead Sea. It is a colourless to white, odourless salt with a bitter taste. It has been used for centuries as an aid to improving health and well being. Its therapeutic properties are well recognised and people flock to the Dead Sea every year to bathe in its water to rejuvenate themselves. The main uses for magnesium chloride are in the paper, textiles, cement and refrigeration industries. It also finds major applications as a de-icer and a water treatment in aquariums.

Properties of magnesium chloride hexahydrate

  • CAS No.: 7791–18–6
  • EINECS: 232–094–6
  • Magnesium chloride hexahydrate: 99% minimum
  • Magnesium chloride: 47% minimum
  • Calcium chloride: 2.2% maximum
  • Sodium chloride: 0.5% maximum
  • Potassium chloride: 0.2% maximum
  • Formula: MgCl2 6H2O
  • Purity: 99%
  • Mol weight: 203.3
  • Density: 1.569
  • Melting point: 117C
  • Water solubility: 2350 g/L (20 C)
  • Appearance:: White flakes
  • pH: 8.4 270g/l at 20C)
  • High quality magnesium chloride from the Dead Sea
  • Free from phosphate, bromides and ammonia
  • Dissolves quickly to provide clear solution

Where to Buy Magnesium chloride online

USES OF MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE:

  • Additive for marine aquariums (see below for details)
  • For batheing
  • Used as a deicer and prevents the formation of ice on surfaces
  • Used in the manufacture of textiles, fire proofing agents, cements and refrigeration bri­ne.
  • Used to make sorrel cement.
  • Used for dust control.
  • For the manufacture of magnesium metal and other magnesium compounds.

Magnesium Chloride for health benefits

For many years Magnesium chloride has been used for batheing and ingesting to improve health and well being. For an insight into the many health benefits of the “Miracle mineral” click here

PLEASE NOTE that although our magnesium chloride is a natural salt produced from the waters of the Dead Sea it has not been purified to be taken orally or ingested and as such we do not promote it for this purpose.

MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE IN MARINE AQUARIUMS:

Magnesium chloride hexahydrate is for adding magnesium to sea water. Severely low values of magnesium (900 mg/L or below) can cause low pH values and an inability to maintain proper alkalinity and calcium values. If magnesium becomes too low, coral growth will stop and followed by a decline in coral health. Carbonates and calcium are essential for all growth of corals, coralline algae, clams and invertebrates. Maintaining the correct magnesium values is very important and is indirectly responsible for coral and coralline algae growth by making it possible to maintain correct calcium, alkalinity and pH values. The magnesium content must often be increased, as shortfalls in the content can arise for various reasons. The normal magnesium content is around 1.30 – 1.40 mg/litre (1300–1400 ppm). To increase the magnesium content you need magnesium chloride hexahydrate or a mixture of magnesium chloride and magnesium sulphate (ratio of 7:1).

Visit our Reef Range & Aquarium Information site

How to dose aquarium with magnesium chloride

50g will raise Magnesium levels by approximately 60ppm in 100 litres of salt water. It is not recommended to increase Magnesium levels by more than 60ppm per day. Simply mix the required amount into a few litres of Reverse Osmosis Water, once dissolved, slowly add to your tank in an area of high flow, preferably over a period of an hour. Alternatively add to your evaporation top up water and top up as normal.

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Magnesium Chloride as a de-icer

Magnesium chloride is considered by some to the best overall ice melting compound. It is safe to use around plant life and it is less corrosive than other ice melting compounds. Magnesium chloride is a hygroscopic compound meaning it absorbs moisture. This allows the magnesium chloride to dissolve into a brine solution very quickly hence melting ice and snow very quickly. Relatively harmless to plant life, magnesium chloride is an environmentally friendly alternative for melting ice and snow. Magnesium chloride can effectively melt ice and snow in temperatures as low as –30 degrees Celsius.

Magnesium chloride is safe to use around animals and it will not affect the paws of cats or dogs etc. It does not produce any residues that can damage carpets etc.

The product is simply applied by sprinkling the powder over the ice. When used as a solution magnesium chloride has the added advantage of preventing ice forming on surfaces when applied before freezing. This solution is made up by dissolving 30g per litre of water. It can be sprayed at a rate of approx 5 sq m per litre.

Health & safety

Not a hazardous substance or mixture according to Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008.

See MSDS for magnesium chloride hexahydrate for full details

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Where to Buy Magnesium chloride online

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Where Buy Magnesium Sulphate / sulfate online

 

How to grow copper sulfate crystals

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Growing crystals is fun and very rewarding. It does take time and a lot of patience but the final results can be amazing.

The secret to quality crystals is working with clean equipment and good quality copper sulfate. The process involves using a saturated solution to firstly create a single seed crystal and then growing this seed crystal as large as you like.

Please note: As you will be working with hot water it is important that children are supervised at all times.

Ingredients needed to grow your own copper sulfate crystals:

  • Water
  • copper sulfate
  • 2 clean jars
  • Fishing line
  • A pencil or stiff wire
  • Tablespoon
  • A cloth
  • Gloves

Instructions on how to copper sulfate crystals:

Stage 1 – Producing a saturated solution.

  • Using gloves add copper sulfate to a jar containing water and stir until dissolved.
  • Keep adding more copper sulfate and mixing until no more will dissolve.
  • There should be some undissolved copper sulfate settled at the bottom of the jar.
  • Allow the jar to sit for an hour so that all undissolved solid settles to the bottom of the jar.
  • Carefully transfer only the liquid to a second clean jar and seal it for the next processes.

Stage 2 – Producing the seed crystal.

  • Pour some of the saturated solution into a clean jar.
  • Cover the jar with a cloth and place in a dark place (cupboard etc).
  • A few crystal should start forming at the bottom of the jar. (see notes)
  • Allow them  to continue to grow until they are large enough to handle easily.
  • Remove the crystals from the jar and keep dry for using in the next process.
  • Seed crystals that you wish to keep for later should be wrapped in tissue.

Stage 3 – Growing the large crystals.

  • Take the original jar of saturated copper sulfate solution.
  • Tie one of the seed crystals to a length of fishing line.
  • Tie the other end of the line to a pencil or some stiff wire.
  • Immerse the seed crystal into the jar making sure that it is not touching the sides or the base.
  • Place the pencil or wire across the top of the jar and fix in position with a bit of tape.
  • Cover the jar with a cloth and set aside to allow the crystal to grow.
  • Keep out of direct sunlight and away from heaters, radiators etc.
  • As the crystal grows the level of the saturated solution will drop.
  • you can top up the solution by making more of it (repeat stage 1) and adding carefully so as to avoid disturbing the growing crystal.
  • You can continue doing this for days, weeks, months or even years – it just depends on how big a crystal you want to grow.
  • When you are happy with the finished crystal remove it and store it somewhere dry.

Notes:

For the cleanest crystals distilled water should be use instead of tap water .

It is very important that during all processes you keep the containers covered to prevent dust getting in which will spoil the crystals.

If during the seed growing process you notice that the complete surface of the base is covered in tiny crystals this means that the jar was not clean and you will need to start this process again.

Where to buy quality Copper Sulfate

What is Aluminium Sulphate and how is it used?

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aluminium sulphate hydrate kibbled

What is Aluminium Sulphate Hydrate?

Aluminium sulphate, commonly known as alum is a hard crystalline solid or powder that is soluble in water. It contains around 17% alumina (Al2O3). It is manufactured in a simple process from aluminium trihydrate and sulphuric acid. Aluminium sulfate has been used by man since 2000 BC, when the Egyptians used a mineral alum as a mordant in dyeing. It has long been used in paper sizing to improve durability and ink receptivity and in water treatment to clarify water. Other uses for alum include as a Ph ajuster in soil, as a waterproofing agent and accelerator in concrete.

SPECIFICATION:

  • Synonyms: aluminum sulphate; aluminium sulfate; Cake alum; Filter alum; Papermaker’s alum; Sulfate d’aluminium;
  • Molecular formula: Al2(SO4)3.nH2O
  • Cas No: 10043–01–3
  • EINECS: 233–135–0
  • Molar mass: 342.15 g/mol
  • Appearance: white lump crystalline solid
  • Density: 1.69 g/cm3
  • Melting point: 770 C decomposes
  • Solubility: soluble in water 43g/100mL (20C)
  • Combined alumina (as Al2O3): 16.15 – 17.4%
  • Basic alumina (as Al2O3): 0.6% – neutral
  • Total alumina (as Al2O3): 16.75 – 17.4%
  • Total iron (as Fe2O3): 0.006% max
  • Insolubles: 0.2% max
  • Lump size: 90mm max
  • Lead: <5ppm
  • Refractive index: 1.47
  • Acidity (pKa): 3.3–3.6

It is slightly soluble in alcohols and dilute mineral acids.

Where to buy aluminium sulphate online in UK

USES FOR ALUMINIUM SULPHATE:

Aluminium Sulfate is used in water purification. As a mordant in dyeing and printing textiles. In water purification, it causes impurities to coagulate which are removed as the particulate settles to the bottom of the container or more easily filtered.

Aluminium sulfate is sometimes used to reduce the pH of garden soil. The gardener can add Aluminum sulfate to the soil to reduce the pH level which in turn will result in the flowers of the Hydrangea turning a different color (see below).

Aluminium sulfate is the active ingredient of some antiperspirants.

In construction industry it is used as waterproofing agent and accelerator in concrete.

In paper making the alum reacts with rosin sizes of various types, helping to attach the newly formed rosin aluminates to fibres. Sizing makes the paper water resistant.

It is also used in styptic pencils.

It can also be very effective as a molluscide, killing spanish slugs. Aluminium sulphate is considered to be a relatively environmentally friendly treatment for slugs compared to the more toxic conventional products like metaldehyde.(See below – How to use aluminium sulphate to kill slugs)

HOW TO CHANGE COLOUR OF HYDRANGEA WITH ALUMINIUM SULPHATE

In order to change the flowers of the hydrangea from pink to blue there needs to be aluminium present in the soil and a pH of less than 7 ideally between 5.2 and 5.5 (Acidic). Only plants older than 2 years which are established should be treated. Before commencing treatment to change colour it is strongly advisable to water plants thoroughly every day for a week. Where possible test soil around hydrangeas for pH.

Add 15g (1 tablespoon) of aluminium sulphate in a litre of warm water and allow to sit for 15–30 minutes to dissolve. Add this to a watering can and make up to 5 litres with cold water. Apply the solution around the based of the hydrangea. DO NOT OVERUSE as making the soil too acidic can result in damage to the roots. Check the pH and maintain it between 5.2 and 5.5.

HOW TO LOWER THE pH OF SOIL WITH ALUMINIUM SULPHATE

The aluminium sulphate should be applied to the garden as a liquid to realise a fast change in the pH. Before starting you need to know the pH of your soil. As a rule of thumb to reduce the pH by 1 point you need to apply 50g of aluminium sulphate for every square metre of soil. Ideally the aluminium sulphate needs to penetrate into the soil to be effective or you will be just acidifying the surface. One suggestion to aid penetration would be to spike the garden as you go along. For every 5 square metres of garden you need to apply 250g of the aluminium sulphate. Dissolve this in a litre of hot water by leaving it to sit for 15–30 minutes. Add to a watering can and top up with cold water. Apply this to the 5 sq m of garden.

Alternatively you could dig it into the soil again at a rate of 50g per square metre but this will take a lot longer to be effective as the sulphate is slow to dissolve.

HOW TO USE ALUMINIUM SULPHATE TO KILL SLUGS

Aluminium sulphate is effective for killing slugs by desiccating them (drying them out by absorbing water from the slime producing glands). As well as killing young slugs it acts as a deterrent keeping them away from plants. Apply the aluminium sulphate close to and around plants to be protected especially those most favoured by slugs, like Hostas. Apply the crystals at a rate of around 1kg per 40 square metres. Avoid touching the plants with the solid as this can cause them harm. Note: Kibbled aluminium sulphate contains some very large crystals and these should be broken up into smaller pieces by placing inside a towel or other material and carefully hitting with a hammer.

Another method for applying aluminium sulphate is as a solution. This is highly favoured by growers of delphiniums and is best applied in the winter and early spring. Make up a solution by dissolving around 100g of aluminium sulphate in 5 litres of warm / hot water. Allow to cool. Apply around the base of the plants by saturating the soil. Be careful to avoid spraying directly on plants. Repeat every few weeks. As aluminium sulphate acidifies the soil it may be necessary to apply some lime on treated soil to raise the pH again.

Health & safety

Risk phrases: R36/37/38 Irritating to eyes, respiratory system and skin.

safety phrases: S26 In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice. S28 After contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of: water. S37/39 Wear suitable gloves and eye/face protection. S38 In case of insufficient ventilation, wear suitable respiratory equipment.

For more information see MSDS for Aluminium sulphate

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Where to buy aluminium sulphate online in UK

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What is Sodium Acetate Trihydrate and how is it used ?

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sodium acetate trihydrate

sodium acetate trihydrate

What is sodium acetate trihydrate

Sodium acetate trihydrate, also known as sodium ethanoate is an odourless, white crystalline salt which is easily soluble in water. It is made from ethanoic acid and sodium carbonate or sodium hydroxide. It has many applications and is commonly used in the medical, food, cosmetic and textile industries.

Properties & Specification

  • Synonyms.: Acetic acid sodium salt; sodium ethanoate;
  • CAS No.: 6131–90–4
  • EINECS: 204–823–8
  • Formula:CH3COONa 3H2O
  • Purity: 98% min
  • Mol weight: 136.8
  • Density: 1.45
  • Melting point: 58C
  • Boiling point: >200C
  • Autoignition temperature: 607C
  • Water solubility: 762 g/L (20 C)
  • Appearance:: White crystalline solid
  • pH: 8.9 (0.1M at 25C)

Easily soluble in cold water, hot water. Soluble in diethyl ether. Solubility in water: 1 g dissolves in 0.8 ml water 0.6 boiling. Solubility in water: 76.2 g/100 ml @ 0 deg. C; 138.8 g/ 100 ml @ 50 deg. C Solubililty in alcohol: 1 g dissolves in 19 ml alcohol. Solubility in alcohol: 2.1 g/100 ml alcohol @ 18 deg. C

Where to Buy sodium acetate trihydrate online UK

Uses of sodium acetate trihydrate

  • Used in hand warmers and heating pads
  • Used for making Hot Ice in Heating Pads (Details below for making and link to Video.)
  • Used as a Buffer to maintain constant pH in solutions
  • Used in Textile industry to neutralise acid wastestreams
  • Used in optical lithography and photoengraving
  • Used as a Pickling agent.
  • In the production of synthetic rubber. It helps to retard vulcanization of chloroprene.
  • As a pickling agent in Chrome tanning of animal skins in conjunction with chromium sulphate.
  • Used in cosmetic products
  • As a concrete sealant

 

Sodium acetate in the laboratory

In the lab, as the conjugate base of a weak acid, a solution of sodium acetate and acetic acid can act as a buffer to keep a relatively constant pH. This is useful especially in biochemical applications where reactions are pH dependent. A formulation with ethanol may be used for precipitation of nucleic acids. It is often used in the preparation of gel stains for protein gel electrophoresis.

Details on Making Hot Ice:

Sodium acetate is also used in consumer heating pads or hand warmers and is also used in “hot ice”. When sodium acetate trihydrate crystals (melting point 58 oC) are heated to around 100 oC, they melt. When this melt cools, it gives a supersaturated solution of sodium acetate in water. This solution is capable of supercooling to room temperature, well below its melting point, without forming crystals. By clicking on a metal disc in the heating pad, a nucleation center is formed which causes the solution to crystallize into solid sodium acetate trihydrate again. The bond-forming process of crystallization is exothermic, hence heat is emitted.

Click Here to see the Video of Hot Ice preparation and its use for making sculptures:

Health & safety

Not a hazardous substance or mixture according to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 This substance is not classified as dangerous according to Directive 67/548/EEC.

For more details see MSDS for sodium acetate trihydrate

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Where to Buy sodium acetate trihydrate online UK

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What is Potassium Ferrocyanide and what is it used for ?

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Potassium ferrocyanide trihydrate

WHAT IS POTASSIUM FERROCYANIDE

Potassium ferrocyanide occurs as odourless, light yellow crystals which are soluble in water but insoluble in alcohols. Also known as yellow prussiate of potash or potassium hexacyanoferra­te(II), Potassium ferrocyanide is manufactured from hydrogen ferrocyanide and potassium hydroxide. It is not considered to be toxic but is dangerous when heated or mixed with other chemicals. It is commonly used as a laboratory reagent and in the production of dyes, pigments and paints.

Specification

  • Synonyms: potassium hexacyanoferrate(II); Potassium hexacyanidofe­rrate(II); yellow prussiate of potash, tetrapotassium ferrocyanide; potassium prussiate trihydrate; tetrapotassium hexacyanidoferrate (4-), trihydrate;
  • Formula: C6N6FeK4.3(H2O) or K4[Fe(CN)6].3(H2O)
  • Appearance: yellow crystals
  • Mol weight: 422.41
  • Purity: 98+%
  • CAS no: 14459–95–1
  • EINECS no: 237–722–2
  • Density: 1.85
  • Melting Point: 69–71C
  • Boiling Point: 400C decomposes
  • Solubility: soluble in water 211g/L @20C
  • pH: 8–10

It is Stable under normal temperatures and pressures; decomposes on strong heating to evolve highly toxic fumes of hydrogen cyanide gas. It is not compatible with many reagents including strong oxidising agents and acids.

Where to Buy potassium ferrocyanide online uk

Uses for Potassium ferrocyanide

Potassium ferrocyanide finds many niche applications in industry. It and the related sodium salt are widely used as anti-caking agents for both road salt and table salt. Potassium ferrocyanide is also used in the purification of tin and the separation of copper from molybdenum ores. It is used to harden iron alloys. It is used in the dying of of wool and silk. Other uses include in metal extraction and to make adhesives, computer electronics, fire retardants, cosmetics, dyes, nylon, paints, inks and plexiglass.

Food grade Potassium ferrocyanide is used in the production of wine and citric acid. It is used to remove copper from wine where copper has been used as a fungicide.

Potassium ferrocyanide can be used as a fertilizer for plants.

It is used in the production of potassium ferricyanide.

Potassium ferrocyanide in the laboratory

In the laboratory potassium ferrocyanide is used to determine the concentration of potassium permanganate and is a qualitative test for copper and molybdenum. Potassium ferrocyanide is used to prepare the red crystals of sodium nitroprusside by treating with nitric acid and then neutralising the solution with sodium carbonate.

When heated it decomposes to produce potassium cyanide (KCN), iron, nitrogen and carbon.

When added to hot dilute sulphuric acid hydrogen cyanide is formed but when heating with concentrated sulphuric acid carbon monoxide is evolved.

Potassium ferrocyanide used to prepare Prussian Blue

Potassium ferrocyanide is used to prepare Prussian Blue, the deep blue pigment in blue printing. It is produced by the reaction of K4[Fe(CN)6] with ferric (Fe3+) ions.

Health & safety

R32 Contact with acids liberates very toxic gas. R52/53 Harmful to aquatic organisms, may cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment.

S2– S22 Do not breathe dust. S24/25 Avoid contact with skin and eyes. S47 Keep at temperature not exceeding 50 C. S61 Avoid release to the environment. Refer to special instructions/ Safety data sheets

For full fetails see MSDS for Potassium ferrocyanide

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Where to Buy potassium ferrocyanide online uk

Where to Buy potassium ferricyanide online uk

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What is Potassium Ferricyanide and what is it used for ?

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potassium ferricyanide

WHAT IS POTASSIUM FERRICYANIDE

Potassium ferricyanide occurs as bright red crystals which are soluble in water. Potassium ferricyanide is manufactured by passing chlorine into a solution of potassium ferrocyanide. It is not considered to be toxic but is dangerous when heated or mixed with other chemicals. It is commonly used in photography and to make dyes, pigments and light sensitive paper.

Properties of Potassium ferricyanide

  • Synonyms: Potassium hexacyanoferra­te(III); Red prussiate; Prussian red; tripotassium hexacyanoferrate
  • Formula: C6N6FeK3 K3Fe(CN)6
  • Appearance: red crystals
  • Mol weight: 329.24
  • Purity: 99+%
  • CAS no: 13746–66–2
  • EINECS no: 237–323–3
  • Density: 1.89
  • Melting Point: 300C
  • Boiling Point: decomposes
  • Solubility: soluble in water 464g/L @20C
  • pH: 6–9

It is slowly soluble in 2.5 parts cold water and in 1.3 parts boiling water; slightly soluble in alcohol. It is Stable under normal temperatures and pressures; decomposes on strong heating to evolve highly toxic fumes of hydrogen cyanide gas. Exposure to light can discolour potassium ferricyanide. It is not compatible with many reagents including ammonia, oxidising agents and acids.

Where to Buy potassium ferricyanide online uk

Uses for Potassium ferricyanide

Potassium ferricyanide used to prepare Prussian Blue

Potassium ferricyanide is used to prepare Prussian Blue, the deep blue pigment in blue printing. It is produced by the reaction of K3[Fe(CN)6] with ferrous (Fe2+) ions. In medicine prussian blue is used as an antidote for some heavy metal poisoning.

Testing for ferrous ions with potassium ferricyanide

The ability for potassium ferricyanide to be used to test for ferrous ions is beneficial both in medical labs to detect ferrous ions in biological tissue and industrial environments to determine if free metal ions are present on steel or other iron surfaces which lead to rusting.

Potassium ferricyanide for use in photography

Potassium ferricyanide is widely used as a chemical reducer in photographic processing to remove silver from negatives and positives (dot etching). This is done to compensate for minor errors in a photograph or to make deliberate changes in the reproduction. In coluor reproduction of photographs, potassium ferricyanide is used to reduce the size of dots on halftone positives without reducing their density and, thereby, reducing the amount of color in treated areas. This is the most important means of manual colour correction of original color photographs.

Other uses for Potassium ferricyanide

Potassium ferricyanide is also used in tempering iron and steel, sensitive coatings on blueprint paper, wood staining, dyeing wool, production of pigments, electroplating, as a laboratory reagent, and a mild oxidizing agent in organic synthesis. In wine production potassium ferricyanide has been used to precipitate out copper if copper has been used as a fungicide on the grapes.

In the laboratory potassium ferricyanide is used to produce the ferricyanites of heavy metals including mercury, silver, copper, iron 2+ and iron 3+.

Health & safety

R36/38– Irritating to eyes and skin.

S2– Keep out of the reach of children. S46– If swallowed, seek medical advice immediately and show this container or label.

For full fetails see MSDS for Potassium ferricyanide

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Where to Buy potassium ferricyanide online uk

Where to Buy potassium ferrocyanide online uk

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What is Sodium Silicate / Water Glass and what is it used for ?

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sodium silicate solution

sodium silicate solution

WHAT IS SODIUM SILICATE

Sodium silicate, also known as water glass is a clear, odourless, viscous liquid. This specific silicate has a molar ratio of 3.22 and a total solids content of 36.8%. It is produced by fusing sand (SiO2) with sodium carbonate which produces solid glass (cullet). The glass is then dissolved in water and steam under high pressure which produces the sodium silicate solution also known as water glass. It is widely used in industry as sealants, binders, deflocculants, emulsifiers and buffers.

Specification

  • Synonyms: Sodium trisilicate solution; Water glass; Silicic acid, sodium salt; sodium hydroxy(oxo)si­lanolate; acide silicique, sel de sodium; Kieselsaure, Natriumsalz;
  • Molar Ratio: 3.22 +/-0.5%
  • SiO2: 27.8% +/-0.5%
  • Na2O: 8.5% +/-0.3%
  • Concentration: 36–37%
  • CAS No: 1344–09–8
  • EC No: 215–687–4
  • Formula: Na2Si3O7
  • Viscosity: 70–100cPs (20C)
  • Density: 1.38 g/cm3 (40 Be)
  • pH: approx 11.3
  • Solubility: completely miscible in water

Where to Buy Sodium Silicate / water glass/ liquid glass online uk

Uses for sodium silicate

Metal repair

Sodium silicate is used, along with magnesium silicate in muffler repair and fitting paste. When dissolved in water, both sodium silicate, and magnesium silicate form a thick paste that is easy to apply. When the exhaust system of an internal combustion engine heats up to its operating temperature, the heat drives out all of the excess water from the paste. The silicate compounds that are left over have glass-like properties, making a somewhat permanent, brittle repair.

Automotive repair

Sodium silicate can be used to seal leaks at the head gasket. Rather than pull the head, a jar of “liquid glass” is poured into the radiator and allowed to circulate. The Waterglass is injected via the radiator water into the hotspot at the motor. This technique works because at 93 C the sodium silicate loses water molecules to form a very powerful sealant that will not re-melt below 815 C. This approach is often used by disreputable used-car salespersons to disguise a leaking head gasket.

A sodium silicate repair of a leaking head gasket can hold for up to two years and even longer in some cases. The effect will be almost instant, and steam from the radiator water will stop coming out the exhaust within minutes of application. This repair only works with water to cylinder or water to Air applications and where the sodium silicate reaches the “conversion” temperature of 93 C.

Cement uses

Sodium silicate has been widely used as a general purpose cement, but especially for applications involving cementing objects exposed to heat or fire. For example, sodium silicate has been provided in home first-aid kits and used in medical practice as a glue for holding human skin together at surface cuts. It has also been used as a general purpose paper cement.

 

Timber treatment

Sodium silicate is used as a timber treatment to preserve wood from insects and possesses some flame-retardant properties.

Concrete and general masonry treatment

Concrete treated with a sodium silicate solution helps to significantly reduce porosity in most masonry products such as concrete, stucco, plasters. A chemical reaction occurs with the excess Ca(OH)2 in the concrete that permanently binds the silicates with the surface making them far more wearable and water repellent. It is generally advised to apply only after initial cure has taken place (7 days or so depending on conditions).

Refractory use

Water glass is a useful binder of solids, such as vermiculite and perlite. When blended with the aforementioned lightweight aggregates, water glass can be used to make hard, high-temperature insulation boards used for refractories, passive fire protection and high temperature insulations, such as moulded pipe insulation applications. When mixed with finely divided mineral powders, such as vermiculite dust (which is common scrap from the exfoliation process), one can produce high temperature adhesives. The intumescence disappears in the presence of finely divided mineral dust, whereby the waterglass becomes a mere matrix. Waterglass is inexpensive and abundantly available, which makes its use popular in many refractory applications.

Water Treatment

Water glass is used as a water treatment in waste water treatment plants. Waterglass will bind to heavier molecules and drag them out of the water.

Magic Crystals

Water glass was used in the magic crystal garden toys from the 1980′s. When waterglass was combined with a selection of different metals in solution, the waterglass would cause the metals to precipitate. Each metal would precipitate separately causing a different color stalagmite.

Sodium silicate in the paper & pulp industry

In the peroxide bleaching process of the Pulp and Paper industry sodium silicate functions as a transition metal ion chelate, a pH buffer, a stabiliser, a surface active agent and penetrant and as a corrosion control agent

Health & safety

Risk phrases: R34 Causes burns. R37 Irritating to respiratory system.

Safety phrases: S26 In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice. S36/37/39 Wear suitable protective clothing, gloves and eye/face protection. S45 In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately (show the label where possible).

For full details see MSDS for sodium silicate

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Buy Sodium Silicate Powder

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What is Sulphamic Acid and what is it used for ?

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WHAT IS SULPHAMIC ACID

Sulphamic acid is a white crystalline solid which is stable and non-hygroscopic. It is soluble in water and formamide and slightly soluble in methanol, ether, acetone and concentrated sulphuric acid. It is classified as a strong inorganic acid and is commercially produced from urea and fuming sulphuric acid. At room temperature, dilute aqueous sulphamic acid solution is stable for a long time but rapid hydrolysis occurs at elevated temperatures. It’s solution is less corrosive toward metals than other mineral acids like hydrochloric acid.

Sulphamic acid is used as an acidic cleaning agent, typically for metals and ceramics. It is a replacement for hydrochloric acid for the removal of rust. In households, it is often found as a descaling agent in detergents, cleaners and toilet cleaners for the removal of limescale.

Properties of Sulphamic acid

  • Synonyms: sulfamic acid; Amidosulfonic acid; Amidosulphonic acid; sulphamidic acid;
  • CAS No: 5329–14–6
  • EINECS No: 226–218–8
  • Appearance: white crystalline solid
  • Minimum quality: 99.8%
  • Molecular formula: NH2SO3H
  • Molar mass: 97.09 g/mol
  • Density: 2.15g/cm3
  • Solubility in water: 213 g/L (20C)
  • Melting point: 190 – 225 C
  • Boiling point: decomposes
  • pH: 1.2 (1% solution @ 20C)
  • Refractive index: 1.553

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USES OF SULPHAMIC ACID:

  • Descaler, Cleaner & Rust Remover
  • removing excess grout on tiles, efflorescence and other mineral deposits
  • Cleaner & descaler for Dairy equipment (pipeline milkers, milk evaporators)
  • Cleaner & descaler for Brewery equipment (pipelines, Vats, etc)
  • Catalyst for esterfication process process
  • Used in dye and pigment manufacture
  • Used as a herbicide
  • Effecticve against Foot and Mouth (approved bty Defra)
  • Ingredient in Denture Tablets
  • Coagulator for urea-formaldehyde resins
  • Ingredient in fire extinguishing media
  • Pulp and paper industry as a chloride stabilizer
  • Synthesis of nitrous oxide by reaction with nitric acid

Sulphamic acid in descaling

Sulphamic Acid is super efficient descaling agent and is used for cleaning a variety of industrial equipment and domestic appliances. It is used for cleaning boilers, heat exchangers, condensers, jackets and coils, descaling toilets, removing excess grout on tiles, efflorescence and other mineral deposits etc (See below for details on how to use). It helps remove hard water scale, protein deposits, beer and milk stone, light rust and copper corrosion

Sulphamic acid in paper & pulp Industry

Sulphamic Acid prevents pulp degradation due to temperature at the chlorination and hydrochloride stage. It permits bleaching at higher temperature and lower PH without loss of strength.

Sulphamic acid is used in manufacturing of Dyes, Pigments and in the dyeing of leather

Sulphamic Acid removes excess of nitrides used in the diazotization reactions in the manufacturing of dye stuffs and pigments. Nitrides if present in process water of effluents can also be removed by using Sulphamic Acid

Sulphamic acid in Chlorine Stabilization

Chlorine gas in water form HOCL which reacts with Sulphamic Acid form N-Chloro-Sulphamic Acid to N-ChloroSufamic Acid more stable and yet has active chlorine, Because of this, Sulphamic Acid is used for stabilizing chlorine in swimming pools and cooling towers.

Sulphamic acid in Electroplating and Electro-refining

Metal sulphamate electrolytes values for their high solubility cadmium, cobalt nickle, lead silver and radium sulphamte deposits are bright and dense. Lead sulphamate is used in refining lead when a high quality is desired.

Sulphamic acid in Sulphation and Sulphamation

Sulphamic acid is used for sulphation and sulphamation of many organic compounds. Sulphation of aklyl pheno-ethylen oxide condensation products 9for detergents and sulphation of ethoxylated phenol-formaldehyde resins is preferable with Sulphamic Acid. Stronger agents cause unwanted ring sulphomation.

How to use Sulphamic Acid for cleaning & descaling:

For removing excess grout from tiling or dissolving efflorescence from walls, floors etc: Make up a solution of sulphamic acid by dissolving 80–100g per litre of warm water. Apply to surface using a cloth or brush and allow to work for a few minutes. Agitate with brush if necessary and rinse with clean water. Please Note: if using around coloured grout use a weaker solution of approx 2% (20g per litre of water) to reduce the risk of leaching out any colour from the grout.

For descaling equipment use a 10% solution. Sulphamic acid is safe for steel, iron, glass and wood equipment, and may be used with caution on copper, aluminium, and galvanized metal surfaces. Clean in a soak tank or by circulation. For surfaces, apply to surface using a cloth or brush and allow to work for a few minutes. Agitate with brush if necessary and rinse thoroughly with clean water.

For Boiler systems & Cooling Towers use a circulation treatment of a 10% to 15% solution depending on how bad the system is. Before applying flush out system and refill with clean water. Determine the volume of water and mix in the sulphamic acid at a rate of 100g to 150g per litre of water. Circulate the solution at room temperature or heated to a maximum of 60C for heavier cleaning. Note: Do not use at boiling point or product will undergo hydrolysis and not work. After cleaning rinse thoroughly and check system. Repeat applications may be necessary for heavily soiled systems. After cleaning Periodic flushing of the system to remove loosened scale and contaminants will be necessary.

For rust removal use a solution of 10%-20%.

Health & Safety

R-phrase(s): R36/38 Irritating to eyes and skin. R52/53 Harmful to aquatic organisms, may cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment.

S-phrase(s): S26 In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice. S28 After contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of soap and water. S61 Avoid release to the environment. Refer to special instructions/ Safety data sheets.

See MSDS for Sulphamic acid for full details in the documents section above.

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Where to Buy Sulphamic Acid / Sulfamic Acid online UK

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