What Is Thiourea Dioxide?
Thiourea dioxide, an organosulfur compound known as formamidine sulfinic acid, is a flammable substance that ignites upon contact with moisture. It serves as a powerful reducing agent across various industries including leather processing, paper, photography, textile processing, and more, due to its thermal stability and excellent reducing properties.
Uses of Thiourea Dioxide
It is instrumental in bleaching and decolorizing textiles, paper recycling, and leather processing, among other uses. Thiourea dioxide also plays a role in organic synthesis, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and precious metals recovery.
Properties of Thiourea Dioxide
This compound appears as a white or pale yellow powder with a molecular weight of 108.12 and decomposes at 144°C without melting. It’s slightly soluble in water but mostly insoluble in ethanol, acetone, ether, and benzene.
Types of Thiourea Dioxide
Available in various capacities for both research and industrial applications, thiourea dioxide comes in sizes ranging from laboratory-friendly quantities to large industrial packages.
Other Information on Thiourea Dioxide
1. Synthesis of Thiourea Dioxide
Typically produced through the oxidation of thiourea with hydrogen peroxide.
2. Toxicity of Thiourea Dioxide
It poses several health hazards, including the risk of fire, toxicity if ingested or inhaled, irritation to skin and eyes, and potential damage to internal organs with prolonged exposure.
3. Regulatory Information and Precautions for Handling Thiourea Dioxide
Given its flammability and health risks, thiourea dioxide must be handled with care, employing proper ventilation and protective gear to mitigate exposure.