Sulfur (S)
Other Names
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Brimstone
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Sulphur (alternative spelling)
CAS Number: 7704-34-9
Chemical Formula: S₈ (most common allotrope)
Molecular Weight: 256.48 g/mol (S₈)
📘 1. Definition
Sulfur is a non-metallic element that appears as a yellow crystalline solid at room temperature. It is insoluble in water but soluble in carbon disulfide and some other organic solvents. Sulfur occurs naturally and is widely used in industry, agriculture, and chemical manufacturing. It is also a key raw material in the production of sulfuric acid, fertilizers, and chemicals.
🧪 2. Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | S₈ (cyclo-octa-sulfur) |
| Molecular Weight | 256.48 g/mol |
| Appearance | Yellow crystalline solid |
| Odor | Odorless (burned sulfur produces SO₂, strong odor) |
| Melting Point | 115.2 °C |
| Boiling Point | 444.6 °C |
| Density | 2.07 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water, soluble in carbon disulfide |
| Allotropes | Rhombic sulfur, monoclinic sulfur, plastic sulfur |
| Reactivity | Reacts with most metals and non-metals at high temperatures, forms sulfides |
🧰 3. Applications / Uses
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Chemical Industry | Production of sulfuric acid, sulfites, and sulfates |
| Agriculture | Fertilizers (ammonium sulfate, superphosphate), soil amendment, fungicide |
| Rubber Industry | Vulcanization of rubber |
| Pharmaceuticals | Sulfur-containing drugs, ointments, and skin treatments |
| Mining & Metallurgy | Ore refining, metal sulfide processing |
| Food Industry | Preservative (sulfur dioxide) in dried fruits and beverages |
| Explosives & Pyrotechnics | Gunpowder, fireworks, matches |
⚠️ 4. Safety & Handling
| Hazard | Details |
|---|---|
| Flammability | Flammable solid; burning sulfur produces sulfur dioxide (SO₂) |
| Health Hazards | Dust may irritate eyes, skin, and respiratory tract; SO₂ fumes are toxic |
| Environmental | Generally low toxicity; SO₂ emissions are air pollutants |
| PPE | Gloves, goggles, and dust masks recommended |
| Storage | Store in a cool, dry, ventilated area away from ignition sources |
| Handling | Avoid inhalation of dust and fumes; handle carefully to prevent fire |
📌 5. Summary
Sulfur is a versatile industrial element with applications in chemicals, agriculture, rubber, pharmaceuticals, and explosives. It is yellow, non-metallic, and flammable, and occurs in multiple allotropes. Proper handling and storage are necessary due to its flammability and potential to produce sulfur dioxide fumes.
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