Physical Properties
Reddish-brown hexagonal crystal; the pentadecahydrate is a dark green amorphous substance while the octadecahydrate is a violet cubic crystal; the densities are 3.10 g/cm3 (the anhydrous salt), 1.87 g/cm3 (pentadecahydrate), 1.709/cm3 (octadecahydrate); the anhydrous sulfate is insoluble in water and acids; the hydrate salts are soluble in water; the pentadecahydrate is insoluble in alcohol, but the octadecahydrate dissolves in alcohol.
Uses
Chromium(III) sulfate is used as the electrolyte for obtaining pure chromium metal. It is used for chrome plating of other metals for protective and decorative purposes. Other important applications of this compound are as a mordant in the textile industry; in tanning leather; to dissolve gelatin; to impart green color to paints, varnishes, inks, and ceramic glazes; and as a catalyst.
Preparation
Chromium(III) sulfate is prepared by treating chromium(III) hydroxide with sulfuric acid followed by crystallization:
2Cr(OH)3 + 3H2SO4 → Cr2(SO4)3 + 6H2O
Chemical Properties
Chromic sulfate, also known as chromium(III) sulfate (Cr₂(SO₄)₃), is a violet or red powder that is insoluble in water and acids. Its basic form, produced by the reduction of sodium dichromate, is used in tanning. Other uses include chrome plating, chromium alloys, mordants, catalysts, green paints and varnishes, green ink, and ceramic glazes.
The primary hazard of this material is its potential to cause environmental damage if released. Immediate steps should be taken to limit its spread into the environment.
Chemical Properties
Chromic sulfate is a peach colored solid or red to violet, odorless powder.
Uses
Chrome plating, chromium alloys, mordant,
catalyst, green paints and varnishes, green ink,
ceramics (glazes). The basic form (reduction of
sodium dichromate) is used in tanning.
Definition
ChEBI: Chromium(III) sulfate is a compound of chromium and sulfate in which the ratio of chromium (in the +3 oxidation state) to sulfate is 2:3 It contains a chromium(3+).
General Description
Dark green to violet crystalline material. Used in paints and inks, ceramics, and in textile dyeing. I Chromic sulfate is noncombustible. The primary hazard of Chromic sulfate is the potential for environmental damage if released. Immediate steps should be taken to limit its spread to the environment.
Air & Water Reactions
Water soluble.
Reactivity Profile
Chromic sulfate has weak oxidizing or reducing powers. Redox reactions can however still occur. The majority of compounds in this class are slightly soluble or insoluble in water. If soluble in water, then the solutions are usually neither strongly acidic nor strongly basic. These compounds are not water-reactive.
Health Hazard
INHALATION: Corrosive action on mucous membranes. SKIN: May elicit an allergic reaction. Corrosive action on skin. Lesions confined to exposed parts.
Fire Hazard
Special Hazards of Combustion Products: Decomposes to chromic acid when heated.
Potential Exposure
This compound is used in green paints, inks, dyes, and ceramics
First aid
If this chemical gets into the eyes, remove anycontact lenses at once and irrigate immediately for at least15 min, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids. Seek medical attention immediately. If this chemical contacts theskin, remove contaminated clothing and wash immediatelywith soap and water. Seek medical attention immediately. Ifthis chemical has been inhaled, remove from exposure,begin rescue breathing (using universal precautions, including resuscitation mask) if breathing has stopped and CPR ifheart action has stopped. Transfer promptly to a medicalfacility. When this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention. Give large quantities of water and inducevomiting. Do not make an unconscious person vomit
storage
Color Code—Green: General storage may be used.Prior to working with chromic sulfate you should be trainedon its proper handling and storage. Store in tightly closedcontainers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from strongoxidizers and sources of heat.
Shipping
UN3077 Environmentally hazardous substances, solid, n.o.s., Hazard class: 9; Labels: 9-Miscellaneous hazardous material, Technical Name Required
Incompatibilities
This chemical has weak oxidizing and reducing properties. Keep away from strong oxidizers Chromic Sulfate 837 (perchlorates, peroxides, permanganates, chlorates, nitrates, chlorine, bromine, and fluorine). When heated this chemical decomposes to chromic acid.
Waste Disposal
Return to supplier where possible. Where this is not practical, the material should be encapsulated and buried in a specially designated chemical landfill.
