Sodium hypophosphite

Sodium hypophosphite (CAS 7681-53-0), also known as sodium phosphinate, sodium hydrophosphite, and natriumhypophosphit, is an inorganic phosphorus salt carrying the molecular formula H3O2P.Na. It carries no assigned E-code and is not classified as a food additive under EU regulations.

In electroless nickel plating, sodium hypophosphite acts as the reducing agent that deposits nickel onto non-conductive substrates without an external current. In water treatment and polymer stabilisation, it functions as a chelator and antioxidant, sequestering metal ions that would otherwise catalyse degradation reactions. It also serves as a catalyst and buffering agent in pharmaceutical and food-grade processing.

Sodium hypophosphite is available in technical, food-grade (FCC), and pharmaceutical-grade (Ph.Eur.) specifications, supplied as a white crystalline powder or colourless crystals. It is registered under REACH and handled in compliance with EU chemical regulations. Standard packaging includes 25 kg bags and bulk options depending on grade and volume requirements.