Sodium percarbonate

Sodium percarbonate

Sodium percarbonate is a chemical compound with the formula Na2CO3·1.5H2O2. It is an adduct of sodium carbonate ("soda ash" or "washing soda") and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) that releases hydrogen peroxide and sodium carbonate upon dissolution in water. Sodium percarbonate is a white, odorless, water-soluble solid that serves as a powerful oxidizing agent. It is commonly used in the formulation of laundry detergents, cleaning products, and is also employed for its bleaching and disinfecting properties.

Properties and Structure

Sodium percarbonate is a crystalline solid that decomposes into sodium carbonate and hydrogen peroxide in solution. Its oxidizing properties are due to the presence of hydrogen peroxide, which is released when the compound dissolves in water. The structure of sodium percarbonate can be viewed as a compound where one molecule of sodium carbonate is combined with 1.5 molecules of hydrogen peroxide.

Production

The production of sodium percarbonate involves the reaction of sodium carbonate with hydrogen peroxide, followed by crystallization. This process typically requires controlled conditions, including specific temperatures and pH levels, to ensure the formation of the desired product.

Applications

Sodium percarbonate has a wide range of applications, primarily due to its oxidizing and bleaching capabilities. It is a key ingredient in many laundry detergents and cleaning agents, where it acts to remove stains and disinfect surfaces. In addition to its use in household cleaning products, sodium percarbonate is also used in some industrial processes and as a bleaching agent in the paper and textile industries.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

As an environmentally friendly alternative to chlorine bleach, sodium percarbonate breaks down into water, oxygen, and sodium carbonate, all of which are harmless substances. However, like all chemicals, it should be handled with care. Direct contact with the compound can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. It is important to follow safety guidelines when handling sodium percarbonate, including wearing protective gloves and eyewear.

See Also

• Oxidizing agent
• Sodium carbonate
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Laundry detergent
• Cleaning agent