Sodium formaldehyde bisulfite

Sodium formaldehyde bisulfite (CAS 870-72-4), also known as sodium hydroxymethanesulfonate or SFB, is an adduct compound that functions as a controlled formaldehyde releaser and reducing agent across multiple industrial sectors. Its ability to slowly release formaldehyde under specific conditions makes it a practical preservation and biocide active where direct formaldehyde use is restricted or impractical for various manufacturing processes.

In water treatment, SFB is used as a biocide to control microbial growth in cooling towers, industrial process water, and oilfield injection systems. Textile and leather processors apply it as a reducing agent and fixative. These applications in dyeing operations help in improving color consistency and overall process efficiency. In personal care formulations, it functions as a preservative in rinse-off products where low-level formaldehyde release is permitted.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as an excipient and reducing agent in certain drug formulations and API synthesis steps. Sodium formaldehyde bisulfite is commercially available as a white crystalline powder or in aqueous solution. Standard supply grades include technical grade for industrial applications and higher-purity grades suitable for pharmaceutical and personal care use. Bulk quantities are typically offered in bags or drums for transport.

Solution concentrations vary by supplier specification to meet diverse industrial needs. The material must be handled according to safety protocols to ensure stability and efficacy in its intended chemical applications.