Iron(II) Sulfate Heptahydrate – Ferrous Sulfate for Water Treatment, Agriculture, and Industrial Applications
Introduction
Iron(II) Sulfate Heptahydrate, also known as Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate or Copperas, is an inorganic iron salt supplied as green to blue-green crystalline material. It contains ferrous iron and seven molecules of water of crystallization, making it distinct from anhydrous Iron(II) Sulfate.
With the chemical formula FeSO₄·7H₂O, this compound is used in selected water treatment processes, agricultural formulations, chemical manufacturing, and laboratory applications. Its suitability depends on the required iron content, purity, solubility, and the specifications of the intended application.
Industrial Applications
- Water and Wastewater Treatment: Used in selected treatment processes to support precipitation, phosphorus removal, and contaminant control under appropriate operating conditions.
- Agriculture and Horticulture: Used as an iron source in suitable soil amendments and micronutrient formulations to help address iron deficiency in plants.
- Chemical Manufacturing: Serves as a raw material for producing selected iron-based compounds and formulations.
- Industrial Processing: Applied in processes requiring a soluble ferrous iron source.
- Laboratory Applications: Used as a reagent in analytical chemistry and other laboratory procedures.
- Plant Tissue Culture: Used in nutrient media formulations where ferrous iron is required in a specified concentration.
- Specialty Formulations: Incorporated into selected industrial and technical products according to formulation requirements.
Key Benefits
- Source of Ferrous Iron: Provides iron in the +2 oxidation state for suitable chemical and agricultural applications.
- Water Solubility: Dissolves in water, supporting preparation of solutions for controlled processes.
- Versatile Industrial Use: Suitable for selected water treatment, agricultural, and chemical manufacturing applications.
- Defined Hydrated Form: Its heptahydrate composition supports specification-based purchasing and formulation.
- Flexible Grade Selection: Available in different grades depending on purity and intended use.
- Practical Handling Formats: Commonly supplied as crystals or crystalline granules, depending on the manufacturer.
Product Specifications
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Iron(II) Sulfate Heptahydrate |
| Common Name | Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate |
| Synonyms | Copperas, Green Vitriol, Iron(II) Sulfate Heptahydrate |
| CAS Number | 7782-63-0 |
| Chemical Formula | FeSO₄·7H₂O |
| Molecular Weight | 278.01 g/mol |
| Appearance | Pale green to blue-green crystals |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Water Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Iron Oxidation State | +2 (ferrous iron) |
| Iron Content | Approximately 20.1% by mass theoretically |
| Common Applications | Water treatment, agriculture, chemical processing, laboratory use |
| Available Grades | Technical, agricultural, and laboratory grades, subject to supplier availability |
Note: Specifications can vary by grade, purity, moisture condition, and supplier. Confirm the certificate of analysis and technical data sheet for the material being purchased. <Cite refs={["turn819293search12","turn819293search0","turn819293search1"]}/>
Storage and Handling
Store Iron(II) Sulfate Heptahydrate in tightly closed, suitable containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Protect it from excessive moisture and incompatible materials. Prolonged exposure to air and unsuitable storage conditions may contribute to oxidation or changes in the material's appearance and quality.
Avoid generating or inhaling dust. Wear suitable gloves and protective eyewear, and wash hands thoroughly after handling. The substance may be harmful if swallowed and can irritate the skin and eyes. If contact occurs, follow the instructions in the product's Safety Data Sheet (SDS); rinse exposed eyes cautiously with water and seek medical advice when necessary.
Prevent uncontrolled releases into drains and waterways. Follow the supplier's handling instructions and applicable workplace and environmental requirements. <Cite refs={["turn819293search13","turn819293search15"]}/>
Quality and Supply
Iron(II) Sulfate Heptahydrate should be selected according to the intended application and required limits for purity, iron content, moisture, and impurities. Buyers should verify the product grade, certificate of analysis, technical data sheet, and Safety Data Sheet before use.
Depending on supplier availability, the product may be offered in bags or other suitable packaging for industrial, agricultural, or laboratory requirements. Confirm packaging sizes, grade specifications, and delivery arrangements when placing an order.
Conclusion
Iron(II) Sulfate Heptahydrate is a versatile inorganic chemical that provides a soluble source of ferrous iron for selected water treatment, agricultural, laboratory, and industrial processes. Its defined hydrated composition and broad range of applications make it useful for specification-driven purchasing. Appropriate grade selection, moisture protection, and safe handling help maintain product quality and support reliable use.
