1. Chemical Symbol: S
2. Atomic Number: 16
3. Atomic Weight: 32.06 g/mol
4. Appearance: Yellow crystalline solid in its pure form.
5. Density: 2.07 g/cm³ (rhombic form).
6. Melting Point: 115.21°C.
7. Boiling Point: 444.6°C.
8. Solubility: Insoluble in water but soluble in carbon disulfide and other non-polar solvents.
9. Allotropes: Exists in several allotropic forms, including rhombic, monoclinic, and amorphous sulphur.
Sulphur is primarily obtained through two main methods: recovery from natural gas and oil refining and mining of elemental sulphur.
1. Recovery from Natural Gas and Oil Refining (Frasch Process):
– Sulphur is recovered as a byproduct during the processing of natural gas and crude oil.
– Steps:
1. Hydrogen Sulphide (H₂S) Removal: H₂S is removed from natural gas or oil using amine gas treating.
2. Claus Process: H₂S is converted to elemental sulphur through the Claus process.
2. Mining of Elemental Sulphur:
– Elemental sulphur is mined from underground deposits using the Frasch process.
– Steps:
1. Superheated water is injected into the sulphur deposit to melt the sulphur.
2. Compressed air is used to bring the molten sulphur to the surface.
– This method is less common today due to the availability of sulphur from oil and gas refining.
1. Fertilizer Production:
– Sulphur is a key raw material in the production of fertilizers, such as ammonium sulphate and superphosphate.
– It is essential for plant growth and soil health.
2. Chemical Industry:
– Used in the production of sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄), one of the most important industrial chemicals.
– Sulphuric acid is used in the manufacture of detergents, explosives, and chemicals.
3. Rubber Industry:
– Sulphur is used in the vulcanization of rubber to improve its strength and elasticity.
4. Pharmaceuticals:
– Used in the production of antibiotics, ointments, and other medicinal products.
5. Pulp and Paper Industry:
– Used in the production of sulphite and sulphate pulping processes.
6. Food Industry:
– Used as a preservative and bleaching agent in food processing.
7. Other Applications:
– Used in the production of batteries, dyes, and pesticides.
– Acts as a fungicide and insecticide in agriculture.
1. Versatility: Used in a wide range of industries.
2. Cost-Effective: Relatively inexpensive compared to alternative chemicals.
3. Essential for Life: Vital for plant growth and soil health.
Disadvantages of Sulphur:
1. Environmental Concerns: SO₂ emissions can harm ecosystems and human health.
2. Corrosiveness: Sulphuric acid and other sulphur compounds are highly corrosive.
3. Flammability: Sulphur dust can be explosive in certain conditions.
