natriumsulfaatti

Natriumsulfaatti, or sodium sulfate, is an inorganic salt with the chemical formula Na2SO4. It occurs naturally in mineral forms such as thenardite (anhydrous Na2SO4) and mirabilite (Na2SO4·10H2O). Mirabilite forms in cold evaporative environments, while thenardite is common in arid, warm settings. The compound is also produced and used industrially in various processes.

Industrial production and sources: Sodium sulfate is obtained on a large scale as a byproduct of chlorine and alkali production and from brine treatments. One pathway is the Mannheim process, which involves reacting sodium chloride with sulfuric acid to yield sodium sulfate and hydrogen chloride. Historically, sodium sulfate was also recovered from remnants of the Leblanc process and related operations.

Uses: Sodium sulfate serves as a fining agent and quality control additive in the glass industry. It is widely used as a drying agent for polar solvents in laboratories and industry, and as an inert filler in paper, detergents, and textiles. The decahydrate form, Glauber’s salt (Na2SO4·10H2O), has been used medically as a laxative.

Properties: It is a white, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. It is generally non-flammable and chemically stable under standard conditions, though the decahydrate form can lose water on heating.

Safety and handling: Sodium sulfate has low acute toxicity, but ingestion in large amounts can act as a laxative and inhalation of dust can irritate the respiratory tract. It should be stored in a cool, dry place and disposed of according to local regulations. Environmental impacts are typically limited when managed properly.