Peroxysulfate

Peroxysulfate is a general term for compounds containing the peroxydisulfate anion, S2O8 2−. These are strong oxidizing agents. The most common peroxysulfate is ammonium peroxydisulfate (APS), also known as ammonium persulfate. Other important examples include potassium peroxydisulfate and sodium peroxydisulfate. Peroxysulfates are typically white, water-soluble solids.

The peroxydisulfate anion has a central peroxide bond (O−O) linking two sulfate groups. This peroxide bond is relatively weak and readily breaks homolytically upon heating or activation by catalysts, generating sulfate radicals (SO4•−). These radicals are highly reactive and are responsible for the strong oxidizing properties of peroxysulfates.

Peroxysulfates find widespread industrial applications. They are used as initiators for free-radical polymerization in the production of plastics like polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polystyrene. They are also employed as bleaching agents in the textile and paper industries, as etchants in the electronics industry, and as oxidizers in water treatment for removing pollutants. In laboratory settings, they are utilized in various oxidation reactions and as a component in certain electroplating baths. Due to their strong oxidizing nature, peroxysulfates require careful handling and storage to avoid decomposition and potential hazards.