Cobalt Sulfate
Other Names: Cobalt(II) sulfate; Sulfuric acid, cobalt(2+) salt (1:1)
CAS Number: 10124-43-3
Sum Formula: CoSO₄
Molar Mass: 154.99 g/mol
Appearance: Red to pink crystalline solid (anhydrous or hydrated forms)
Cobalt sulfate is an inorganic salt widely used in electroplating, ceramics, and as a precursor to other cobalt compounds. It is also employed in the preparation of catalysts and pigments. The hydrated form, especially cobalt(II) sulfate heptahydrate, is the most commonly used in industrial and laboratory applications.
Chemical and Physical Properties
Density: 3.71 g/cm³ (anhydrous)
Melting Point: 735 °C (anhydrous)
Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
Solubility in Water: Highly soluble (364 g/L at 20 °C for the heptahydrate)
Solubility in Other Solvents: Slightly soluble in ethanol
Odor: Odorless
Applications
Electroplating: Used in cobalt electroplating baths to produce hard, corrosion-resistant coatings.
Pigments and Ceramics: Source of cobalt in the production of colored glass and glazes.
Battery Industry: Used in the manufacture of some lithium-ion battery cathode materials.
Catalysis: Precursor in the synthesis of cobalt-based catalysts.
Chemical Synthesis: Intermediate in the preparation of other cobalt salts and complexes.
Safety
Signal Word: Danger
H302 (99.8%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]
H317 (100%): May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]
H319 (15.9%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]
H334 (> 99.9%): May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled [Danger Sensitization, respiratory]
H341 (99.8%): Suspected of causing genetic defects [Warning Germ cell mutagenicity]
H350 (85.6%): May cause cancer [Danger Carcinogenicity]
H350i (14.4%): May cause cancer by inhalation [Danger Carcinogenicity]
H360 (84.1%): May damage fertility or the unborn child [Danger Reproductive toxicity]
H360F (10.5%): May damage fertility [Danger Reproductive toxicity]
H400 (99.9%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]
H410 (97.3%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]
P203, P233, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P272, P273, P280, P284, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P318, P321, P330, P333+P317, P337+P317, P342+P316, P362+P364, P391, P403, P405, and P501
First Aid Measures
Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Seek immediate medical attention.
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. Seek medical help if irritation or sensitization occurs.
Inhalation: Move to fresh air and keep at rest. If breathing difficulties occur, seek urgent medical care.
Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water. Do not induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention.
Handling and Storage
Storage Conditions: Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Protect from moisture and incompatible substances.
Handling Precautions: Use with adequate ventilation. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. Avoid inhaling dust. Use appropriate protective equipment.