What Is Sodium Hypophosphite?
Sodium hypophosphite, with the chemical formula NaPO2H2, is commonly known as sodium phosphosphosphite. It is predominantly sold in its monohydrate form, with the CAS registration number 10039-56-2.
Uses of Sodium Hypophosphite
Sodium hypophosphite is utilized in various applications, including as a reducing agent for electroless plating, a catalyst in synthetic resin production, and a pharmaceutical raw material. Its role in electroless nickel plating is particularly significant, offering improved corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and hardness to plated products, which are beneficial in semiconductor manufacturing and other industrial fields.
1. Electroless Plating
This method involves a redox reaction to deposit metal from a metallic salt solution without external electricity on a surface. Sodium hypophosphite along with boron and hydrazine compounds serves as a reducing agent, but it is the most commonly used in industrial settings.
2. Synthetic Field
As a reducing agent, sodium hypophosphite aids in chemical synthesis, such as producing nickel nanoparticles from nickel acetate tetrahydrate and facilitating enantioselective transfer hydrogenation of ketone compounds to alcohols.
Properties of Sodium Hypophosphite
The molecular weight is 87.98 for the anhydride and 105.99 for the monohydrate. It appears as a white crystalline powder at room temperature and is highly soluble in water, as well as in ethanol, glycerin, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and acetic acid. Its hygroscopic nature requires careful storage.
Types of Sodium Hypophosphite
Available as both a research and development reagent and an industrial chemical, sodium hypophosphite is primarily marketed in its monohydrate form for ease of handling in laboratories and industrial applications.
1. Reagent Products for Research and Development
For R&D purposes, it is offered in small quantities such as 25g, 100g, and 500g, suitable for laboratory use, and can be stored at room temperature.
2. Industrial Chemicals
In industrial settings, sodium hypophosphite is supplied in larger quantities like 25 kg flexible containers or 500 kg bags, catering to the needs of factories for electroless plating and as a pharmaceutical ingredient.
Other Information on Sodium Hypophosphite
1. Chemical Reaction of Sodium Hypophosphite
A strong reducing agent, especially in alkaline conditions, sodium hypophosphite oxidizes to phosphorous or phosphoric acid upon heating and can generate phosphine and hydrogen gases.
2. Precautions for Handling Sodium Hypophosphite
Although not classified under GHS or specifically regulated, it’s crucial to use protective measures such as ventilation, goggles, and protective clothing during handling to prevent skin and eye contact, emphasizing immediate washing if exposure occurs.