Sulfur dioxide

CAS Number
7446-09-5
EC Number
231-195-2
Chemical Formula
O2S
Molecular Weight
64.07 g/mol
FEMA Number
FEMA 3039
Abbreviation
SO2

Description

Sulfur dioxide (CAS 7446-09-5), commonly referenced as SO2 or E220, is an inorganic gas used across food processing, industrial manufacturing, and water treatment. It serves as a preservative, antioxidant, and reducing agent. Its dual role in microbial control and oxidation prevention makes it a procurement staple across multiple regulated industries. In food and beverage production, SO2 is applied to wines, dried fruits, and fruit juices.

This chemical is essential to inhibit microbial growth and prevent browning during storage and processing. Pulp and paper manufacturers use it to bleach cellulose fibers and neutralize excess chlorine in effluent streams. In mining and hydrometallurgy, sulfur dioxide reduces hexavalent chromium and precipitates metals from process liquors during ore refining. Water treatment facilities apply it for dechlorination of potable and wastewater streams.

Sulfur dioxide is supplied as a liquefied gas in pressurized cylinders and ISO tank containers. Bulk tonnage is available for high-volume industrial users requiring consistent supply chains for large-scale operations. Food-grade material meeting E220 specifications is available for regulated applications in the food and beverage sector. Technical-grade supply is standard for pulp, paper, mining, and water treatment end uses.

Other Names (Synonyms)

Sulphur dioxide , sulfur dioxide|sulphur dioxide|sulfurous oxide|sulfurous anhydride|sulfurous acid anhydride|sulfur oxide|R-764|SO2|E220

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

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Physical Properties

Melting Point -75.5 °C
Boiling Point -10.05 °C
Density 2.811 x 10<sup>-3</sup> g/cm³
Appearance Sulfur dioxide is a noncombustible colorless gas at ambient temperatures with a characteristic, strong, suffocating odor. The Odor Threshold is 1.1ppm. Shipped as a liquefied compressed gas.
Color colorless
Odor Pungent odor detectable at 0.3 to 5 ppm
Form colorless gas
Water Solubility %H2O: 17.7 (0°C), 11.9 (15°C), 8.5 (25°C), 6.4 (35°C); % other solvents: 25, alcohol; 32, methanol [MER06]
Vapor Pressure 1779 mm Hg ( 21 °C)

Documentation

Safety & Handling Learn More

Danger
GHS04· Compressed Gas GHS05· Corrosive GHS06· Toxic GHS08· Health Hazard GHS07· Irritant

Hazard Statements

H280 Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated
H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
H318 Causes serious eye damage
H319 Causes serious eye irritation

Precautionary Statements

P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.

Trade & Regulatory

UN Number 2037
ADR Class 2.3
Storage Class 2A - Gases
WGK (Germany) 1
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