Sulfur

Overview
Sulfur (S) is a non-metallic element widely produced as a by-product of natural gas processing and petroleum refining (via hydrodesulfurization). In solid form, sulfur is a bright yellow crystalline substance with numerous industrial, agricultural, and chemical applications. It is a critical raw material in the production of sulfuric acid, fertilizers, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, as well as in rubber vulcanization and metal processing.

Technical Characteristics

  • Chemical Formula: S₈ (elemental sulfur, cyclic molecule)
  • Purity: 99.5% min. (refined commercial grade)
  • Appearance: Bright yellow solid, crystalline or powder form
  • Allotropic Forms: Rhombic (stable at room temp), monoclinic (stable above 95°C)
  • Molecular Weight: 32.06 g/mol
  • Melting Point: 115–120°C
  • Boiling Point: 444.6°C
  • Density (solid @ 20°C): 2.07 g/cm³
  • Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in carbon disulfide and some organic solvents
  • Odor: Odorless in pure form (sulfur compounds may emit pungent smell)

Specifications & Standards

  • Grades Available:
    • Granular Sulfur (fertilizer use)
    • Lump Sulfur (bulk industrial use)
    • Powdered Sulfur (chemical, pharmaceutical use)
  • International Standards: Conforms to ISO 8335 and ASTM specifications for commercial sulfur

Applications

  • Agriculture:
    • Raw material for production of phosphate fertilizers and ammonium sulfate
    • Elemental sulfur used directly as soil conditioner and fungicide
  • Chemicals:
    • Primary feedstock for sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), the world’s most widely used industrial chemical
    • Intermediate in production of detergents, synthetic resins, and explosives
  • Industrial:
    • Vulcanization of rubber
    • Ore flotation in mining
    • Pulp and paper bleaching
  • Energy:
    • Sulfur compounds used in refining processes and battery technology
  • Pharmaceuticals & Specialty Uses:
    • Used in skin ointments, antimicrobial agents, and fine chemical synthesis

Performance Advantages

  • High Purity: Reliable for both industrial chemical synthesis and agricultural use
  • Versatile Feedstock: Forms the basis for a wide array of chemical and fertilizer products
  • Solid or Granular Form: Easily transported and stored in bulk

Handling & Storage

  • Store in cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas
  • Dust may present combustion hazard in confined spaces — requires proper fire protection measures
  • Avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents
  • Transported in bulk as granules, prills, or lump sulfur via ships, rail, or trucks

Compliance & Testing

  • Quality verified through ASTM and ISO testing methods for purity, ash, acidity, and moisture
  • Supplied with third-party inspection certificates (SGS, CIQ, Intertek) confirming Quality & Quantity (Q&Q)