Sodium polystyrene sulfonate

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (CAS 9080-79-9) is a synthetic cation-exchange resin used across pharmaceutical, water treatment, and biotech applications. It selectively binds positively charged ions in solution, enabling controlled removal or exchange of specific cations.

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it functions as the active substance in oral and rectal potassium-binding preparations used to manage elevated potassium levels. This makes it a critical API for renal care drug products and clinical treatments.

Water treatment operations use it to remove hardness-causing calcium and magnesium ions from process streams. This is particularly effective where precise ion control is required for industrial water purification and chemical processing.

In biotechnology and life sciences, it serves as a polyelectrolyte in layer-by-layer coating systems for microencapsulation. These systems are essential for controlled-release research platforms and advanced drug delivery studies.

Its rheology-modifying behavior also supports use as a thickening or stabilizing agent in aqueous formulations. This is highly beneficial where viscosity control is commercially relevant for specialized chemical mixtures and industrial fluids.

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is supplied as a fine powder or aqueous suspension, depending on the intended application. Pharmaceutical-grade material is available to USP and BP specifications for drug manufacturers.

These are the primary standards demanded by regulatory submissions and global healthcare providers. Technical-grade forms are also available for industrial and research procurement where pharmacopeial compliance is not required.