Description
Technical Specifications of Ammonium Persulfate
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Chemical Name: Ammonium Persulfate
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Chemical Formula: (NH₄)₂S₂O₈
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CAS Number: 7727-54-0
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Molecular Weight: 228.20 g/mol
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Appearance: White crystalline powder
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Odor: Odorless
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Purity: ≥ 98.5%
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Solubility in Water: 80 g/100 mL at 25°C
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pH (5% solution): 4.0 – 6.0
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Decomposition Temperature: Begins to decompose at temperatures above 120°C
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Packaging: 25 kg bags, 500 kg super sacks, or custom packaging on request
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Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from moisture, heat, and incompatible materials such as organic substances and strong reducing agents
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Shelf Life: Up to 12 months when stored properly
Key Applications of Ammonium Persulfate
1. Polymerization Initiator
APS is commonly used as a free-radical initiator in the production of polymers, including polyacrylamide, polyacrylic acid, and PVC. It is essential in emulsion polymerization for water-based paints, adhesives, and coatings.
2. Etching and Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs)
In the electronics industry, ammonium persulfate serves as an etchant for copper and other metals, particularly in the manufacturing of printed circuit boards.
3. Textile and Dye Industry
Ammonium persulfate is used to desize textiles, decolorize dyes, and bleach fabrics. It ensures uniform results and is less aggressive than other oxidizing agents, preserving fabric quality.
4. Cosmetics and Personal Care
In the cosmetics industry, APS is used in hair bleach formulations and hair coloring products as an effective oxidizer that breaks down natural hair pigments.
5. Soil Remediation and Water Treatment
Due to its strong oxidizing ability, APS is also used in environmental remediation to treat contaminated soil and groundwater, and in wastewater treatment to break down organic pollutants.
Benefits of Ammonium Persulfate
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✅ High purity and efficiency for consistent industrial results
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✅ Excellent oxidizing properties for various chemical reactions
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✅ Stable at room temperature under dry conditions
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✅ Versatile across multiple industries including polymers, textiles, cosmetics, and electronics
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✅ Effective alternative to potassium persulfate in many applications
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✅ Minimal odor and residue, making it user- and environmentally-friendly
Safety and Handling
Although ammonium persulfate is relatively stable, it is a strong oxidizer and must be handled with care. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. Use appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment) such as gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing. Avoid inhalation of dust. Store in a dry and cool location, and keep away from combustible materials and reducing agents. Always refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before handling.
Conclusion
Ammonium Persulfate is a powerful, reliable, and widely used oxidizing agent with applications across polymer production, metal etching, textile processing, hair bleaching, and environmental cleanup. Its versatility, stability, and strong oxidizing capacity make it a preferred choice for industries requiring precision, efficiency, and effectiveness in their chemical processes. Whether you are manufacturing circuit boards or hair care products, APS offers the high-performance characteristics needed for demanding applications.