Sulfur

Sulfur (CAS 7704-34-9), also known historically as brimstone or sulphur, is a naturally occurring non-metallic element supplied in refined form for industrial and agricultural use.

Where is Sulfur used?

• Rubber and tire manufacturing: primary cross-linking agent
• Vulcanization: forms polymer bridges that give rubber mechanical strength and elasticity
• Agriculture: contact fungicide and acaricide targeting powdery mildew and mite infestations
• Mining and metallurgy: feedstock for sulfuric acid production driving ore leaching and metal refining
• Textile and leather processing: fiber bleaching, hide preservation, wastewater treatment
• It also serves as a chemical intermediate in manufacturing.
• Fertilizer production, including phosphate-based fertilizers, where granular sulfur of 99.5% and 99.8% purity serves as a key raw material.
• Asphalt road binder, where sulfur asphalt is a viable alternative.
• Paper industry.

Formulation notes

• Application is not recommended in seasons with high temperatures because it loses efficacy and persistence due to rapid evaporation.
• Excess sulfur can act as an antagonist of some trace elements and lead to copper, cobalt or selenium deficiency.

Typical specification

• Available in granular, pastille and crushed forms.
• Granular sulfur is available in two purity grades: 99.5% and 99.8%.
• Minimum purity of 99.5%, most often between 99.8 and 99.9%, with controlled ash, acidity and moisture.
• Grade 9998 granular sulfur has a maximum ash content of 0.02%.
• The export granular grade is 2-6 mm.

Regulatory status

• Granular or pastille sulfur falls under Group C of the IMSBC code, while crushed or lump sulfur falls under Group B and Class 4.1 of the IMDG code.
• Granular sulfur has HS Code 250300.
• The reference specification for these grades is GOST 127.1-93.

Storage, packaging and handling

• It should be stored in dry and ventilated areas.
• Dust should be minimized during handling of granular sulfur.

Frequently asked questions about Sulfur

How is granular sulfur produced and what is its typical particle size?

Granular sulfur is produced by converting molten sulfur into round, free-flowing granules sized 2–6 mm.

Can sulfur be mixed with other active substances for crop protection?

Sulfur can be applied in mixture with copper compounds, giving double action against downy and powdery mildews.

What materials should be avoided during handling and transport of sulfur?

It should not be brought into contact with oxidizing substances. Free water makes sulfur corrosive to ship hold structures, requiring a clean hold and often prior liming.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.