Calcium Phenolsulfonate stands out as a white or off-white chemical compound often supplied in solid forms such as flakes, powder, pearls, or crystals. Some manufacturers may offer liquid solutions for specialized applications. Used in a variety of settings, Calcium Phenolsulfonate combines calcium ions with phenolsulfonate anions to form a salt, creating a compound that offers a unique set of chemical and physical features, especially in water treatment, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and select industrial processes.
The compound carries the molecular formula C12H10CaO6S2, reflecting a structure in which the phenolsulfonate component bonds with calcium by forming ionic linkages. This structure promotes solubility in water, encouraging use where quick dissolution is necessary. The arrangement of sulfonate groups in the molecule contributes to its reactivity with hard-water minerals, serving as an agent for scale inhibition or chelation in fluid systems.
Most suppliers present Calcium Phenolsulfonate as free-flowing powder, white to pale yellow, with optional flake or pearl forms for easier handling and dissolution. The density usually centers around 1.7 g/cm³, while the melting point lies outside common process temperatures, maintaining stability throughout typical industrial cycles. Packaged in multi-layer bags or drums, the material resists ambient moisture and air exposure effectively. Solubility in cold and hot water defines it as an adaptable addition to both concentrated and dilute solutions.
Under the international harmonized system, Calcium Phenolsulfonate often registers with HS Code 2908.1100. This classification groups it with sulfonated organic compounds, allowing reliable cross-border identification. From experience, correct reporting and documentation at customs not only prevent shipment delays but also support compliance with each jurisdiction’s chemical safety requirements. Vendors supply certificates of analysis and safety data sheets upon request, which detail batch specifications, purity (often exceeding 98%), and qualitative impurity profiles.
Typical raw materials include phenol, sulfuric acid, and a calcium salt such as calcium carbonate or calcium hydroxide. In the synthesis process, phenol undergoes sulfonation in a controlled reaction vessel. Introduction of the calcium source completes conversion into the final salt. Process parameters—careful temperature monitoring, slow reagent addition, and thorough mixing—determine product quality and batch consistency. Waste minimization and proper neutralization of effluents are integral to ensuring that manufacturing aligns with modern safety, health, and environmental standards.
Calcium Phenolsulfonate does not ignite easily, but exposure to strong oxidizing agents can trigger decomposition reactions. Inhalation of dust or prolonged skin contact may cause irritation, so operators need protective gear such as gloves, safety glasses, and respirators in production and packaging areas. Spills require prompt cleaning using standard chemical absorbents, with attention to containment and proper disposal. While the compound does not carry acute toxicity by oral or dermal exposure at typical workplace concentrations, chronic overexposure can still impose health risks, echoing guidelines found in OSHA and GHS regulations.
Secure storage involves sealed containers, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and sources of acids or oxidizers. Solid forms tolerate temperature fluctuations but maintain optimal stability at room temperature and controlled humidity. Liquid solutions demand containers with corrosion-resistant linings. Suppliers often label drums or bags with handling symbols, batch codes, and manufacturing dates for traceability. My years in specialty chemicals show that shelf life easily exceeds twelve months when these conditions are met, with material quality confirmed by periodic re-testing.
Water treatment uses Calcium Phenolsulfonate as a chelating and dispersing agent, preventing mineral scaling inside pipes, boilers, or cooling towers. Textile processing values its role in dye-bath stabilization, where it binds metal ions that might otherwise disrupt color uniformity on fibers. In agriculture, certain formulations function as micronutrient carriers or soil penetrants, boosting mineral availability to crops. Pharmaceutical and veterinary applications focus on its mild antiseptic qualities, often in topical solutions. Industrial research continues to seek fresh utilizations, driven by the compound’s environmental profile and performance in demanding conditions.
Every application puts different demands on chemical grade, whether that means ultra-pure, technical, or commercial batches. Choice of form—powder, flakes, pearls, or liquid—directly impacts ease of dosing, speed of dissolution, and storage logistics in tight operations. Sourcing from experienced suppliers means decades of knowledge go into every packaged lot, reducing quality issues on the line and supporting compliance with downstream product regulations. I have seen small choices in specification lead to big shifts in production reliability, waste rates, and even the cost of final goods.
With diverse applications across industries, Calcium Phenolsulfonate earns its place among essential raw materials. Comprehensive attention to properties, specification, safe handling, and regulatory coverage creates the foundation for efficient, responsible, and innovative use. When teams understand both the chemistry and the real-world complexities, outcomes improve at every step—quality, safety, and value included.
