Sodium Chlorate

About Sodium Chlorate

Sodium chlorate is an odorless pale yellow to white crystalline solid, widely sought after by various industries for its diverse applications. It is appreciably soluble in water and heavier, thus sinking and dissolving rapidly upon contact. While sodium chlorate itself is not flammable, caution must be exercised as contact with wood, organic matter, ammonium salts, sulfur, sulfuric acid, various metals, and other chemicals may lead to fires or explosions, particularly when solid materials are finely divided. Additionally, exposure to excessive heat, such as in fires, may trigger the evolution of oxygen gas, intensifying fires and potentially leading to explosions. Mixtures with combustible materials are highly flammable and can be ignited by friction.

Manufacturing Process

The commercial manufacturing process of sodium chlorate involves electrolyzing a hot solution of sodium chloride. Brine water serves as the source of sodium chloride, which is purified by removing contaminants like calcium and magnesium. The purified sodium chloride solution is then combined with hydrochloric acid to adjust the pH and enhance operational efficiency within an electrochemical cell. This cell, heated and maintained at 70°C, utilizes electricity to charge the raw material mixture. Sodium dichromate acts as a catalyst in this reaction. Chlorine gas forms at the anode, while hydrogen gas is produced at the cathode. The chlorine undergoes hydrolysis to form a hypochlorite series, eventually reacting with sodium to yield sodium chlorate. The resulting solution undergoes treatment to remove hypochlorite byproducts, after which sodium chlorate crystals are separated, washed, dried, and prepared for crushing and packing. For businesses seeking a reliable sodium chlorate supplier, it's essential to partner with a company that prioritizes quality, safety, and consistency in their manufacturing processes.

Pulp and Paper Industry

Sodium chlorate is indispensable in the production of chlorine dioxide (ClO2), a key bleaching agent for wood pulp. This process ensures the production of high-quality white paper products.

Agriculture Industry

Renowned for its phytotoxic properties and root adsorption capabilities, sodium chlorate finds extensive use as a non-selective herbicide in agriculture. It effectively controls unwanted vegetation and serves as a defoliant and desiccant for crops such as rice, corn, and flax.

Aerospace Industry

Sodium chlorate's unique chemical properties are harnessed in the aerospace sector. When mixed with iron powder and oxidized, it generates oxygen while producing chlorine as a by-product. The chlorine is absorbed by barium peroxide, making sodium chlorate a crucial component in chemical oxygen generators utilized in aircraft. For businesses in need of a trusted sodium chlorate distributor, it's imperative to collaborate with a supplier that prioritizes reliability, consistency, and adherence to industry standards.