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)