Iron(II) sulfate

Iron(II) sulfate (or ferrous sulfate) is the chemical compound with the formula FeSO4. It is used medically to treat iron deficiency, and also for industrial applications. Known since ancient times as copperas and as green vitriol, the blue-green heptahydrate is the most common form of this material.

Medical uses

Iron(II) sulfate is used to treat iron deficiency anemia, a common type of anemia in which the body does not have enough iron. This can occur if the diet does not contain enough iron, if the body does not absorb iron properly, or if the body loses blood. Iron is needed to produce the oxygen-carrying proteins hemoglobin and myoglobin.

Industrial uses

In industry, iron(II) sulfate is used to reduce chromate in cement. It is also used in the manufacture of inks including iron gall ink, which was used from the middle ages until the end of the eighteenth century. It is also used in wood industry to confirm (tannin based) wood preservatives.

Chemical properties

Iron(II) sulfate is a salt that is soluble in water. Its solutions are green in color. Iron(II) sulfate can be oxidized to iron(III) sulfate by the action of air.

Safety

Iron(II) sulfate can be harmful if swallowed or inhaled. It can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. It is not considered to be a fire hazard.

See also

• Iron deficiency anemia
• Iron(III) sulfate
• Iron gall ink

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