IJzerIIIsulfaat

IJzer(III)sulfaat, also known as ferric sulfate, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Fe₂(SO₄)₃. It typically exists as a hydrated salt, with the general formula Fe₂(SO₄)₃·nH₂O, where n commonly ranges from 6 to 9. In its anhydrous form, it is a yellow to brown crystalline solid. Hydrated forms can vary in color from white to yellowish or brown.

This compound is soluble in water, forming acidic solutions. It is a strong oxidizing agent and is often encountered in its nonahydrate form, Fe₂(SO₄)₃·9H₂O. Iron(III) sulfate is produced industrially by the reaction of iron(III) oxide with sulfuric acid or by the oxidation of iron(II) sulfate.

In various applications, iron(III) sulfate serves as a flocculant and coagulant in water treatment, aiding in the removal of impurities. It is also used in the dyeing industry as a mordant, helping to fix dyes to fabrics. Other uses include its application as a soil amendment to provide iron to plants, particularly in alkaline soils where iron is less available, and in the production of pigments. It can also be found in some medicinal preparations for treating iron deficiency anemia, though other iron compounds are more commonly used today.