Ammonium Persulfate (APS) Ammonium peroxydisulfate - 100g

Ammonium Persulfate
Chemical Formula: (NH₄)₂S₂O₈
Molar Mass: 228.20 g/mol
CAS Number: 7727-54-0
Appearance: White, odorless crystalline powder or granules

Ammonium persulfate is a strong oxidizing agent widely used in polymer chemistry, electronics, cleaning processes, and laboratory settings. It decomposes at elevated temperatures, releasing free radicals that initiate chemical transformations, especially polymerization reactions. Due to its high reactivity, it must be handled and stored with care.

Chemical and Physical Properties

• Density: 1.98 g/cm³

• Melting Point: Decomposes before melting

• Decomposition Temperature: ~120 °C

• Solubility: Highly soluble in water, forms acidic solutions

• pH (1% solution): 1–2

• Odor: Odorless

• Reactivity: Strong oxidizer; reacts with reducing agents and organic materials

Applications

1. Polymer Industry

• Radical Initiator: Initiates polymerization of monomers like acrylates, styrene, vinyl acetate

• Rubber Processing: Used as a curing and crosslinking agent in synthetic rubber production

2. Electronics and Metal Processing

• Etching Agent: Applied in PCB fabrication and surface cleaning of metals

• Metal Surface Treatment: Used in pickling and passivation to remove oxide layers

3. Cleaning and Bleaching

• Textile Processing: Bleaches and cleans fibers and textiles

• Pulp and Paper: Employed in bleaching steps during paper production

4. Laboratory Use

• Oxidizer: Commonly used in redox reactions

• Electrophoresis: Component in the preparation of polyacrylamide gels for protein/DNA separation

Functional Benefits

• Strong Oxidizer: Efficient for chemical etching and radical formation

• Radical Generator: Produces free radicals for polymerization and redox reactions

• Stable in Dry Form: Allows for safe storage and transport under recommended conditions

Safety

Signal Word: Danger

Hazard Statements:

• H272: May intensify fire; oxidizer

• H302: Harmful if swallowed

• H315: Causes skin irritation

• H319: Causes serious eye irritation

• H317: May cause an allergic skin reaction

• H334: May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled

• H335: May cause respiratory irritation

Precautionary Statements:

• P210: Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces. No smoking

• P220: Keep/Store away from clothing and combustible materials

• P261: Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray

• P280: Wear protective gloves, clothing, and eye/face protection

• P285: In case of inadequate ventilation, wear respiratory protection

• P302+P352: IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water

• P304+P340: IF INHALED: Remove to fresh air and keep at rest

• P305+P351+P338: IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water. Remove contact lenses if easy to do

• P308+P313: IF exposed or concerned: Get medical advice

• P501: Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations

First Aid Measures

Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with water for several minutes. Seek medical attention.
Skin Contact: Wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. If irritation or rash occurs, consult a physician.
Inhalation: Move to fresh air. If respiratory symptoms occur, seek medical attention.
Ingestion: Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical advice.

Handling and Storage

Storage Conditions: Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Keep away from heat and incompatible materials.
Handling Precautions: Avoid dust formation and contact with flammable or reducing agents. Use appropriate PPE and local ventilation.

Environmental Considerations

Degradation: Breaks down into ammonium and sulfate ions in water, which are less harmful but should be managed to avoid nutrient buildup.
Disposal: Dispose of as hazardous waste in accordance with local and regional regulations. Prevent uncontrolled release into the environment.