I. Introduction
Sodium hexametaphosphate is known as Graham Salt. It is solid at room temperature with the appearance of white crystals or powder. It is a tasteless and odorless solid at room temperature, easily soluble in water, but insoluble in organic solvents. In addition, sodium hexametaphosphate is strongly alkaline and can react with acid to produce phosphate, and this reaction has a strong descaling effect.
Sodium hexametaphosphate is widely used in food, paper, paint, printing industry, so many buyers will buy sufficient amount of sodium hexametaphosphate in advance, but the nature of sodium hexametaphosphate is relatively easy to absorb water, water absorption and moisture will affect the use of, so to share with you sodium hexametaphosphate storage precautions.
II. The storage methods of sodium hexametaphosphate at room temperature mainly include the following points:
- Moisture and humidity prevention: sodium hexametaphosphate is hygroscopic and easily soluble in water, so the package should be kept intact to prevent moisture absorption and lumping. During storage and transportation, sodium hexametaphosphate should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated place, avoiding direct contact with water.
- Sun protection and heat prevention: Sodium hexametaphosphate is easy to decompose under high temperature and sunlight, resulting in the loss of its proper properties. Therefore, direct sunlight and high temperature should be avoided, and sodium hexametaphosphate should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated place, away from heat and fire sources.
- Avoid contact with acid and alkali substances: When sodium hexametaphosphate comes into contact with acid or alkali substances, chemical reactions may occur, resulting in changes in performance or the production of harmful gases. Therefore, during storage and transportation, contact with acid or alkali substances should be avoided, and the package should be kept intact to prevent leakage and pollution.
- Store in cool and dry place: In order to maintain the performance and quality of sodium hexametaphosphate, it should be stored in a cool, dry and well-ventilated place. Meanwhile, contact with toxic and harmful substances and flammable and explosive articles should be avoided.
- Keeping the container sealed: The packaging of sodium hexametaphosphate should be kept sealed to prevent moisture absorption, contamination and oxidation. In the course of use, it should be ensured that the container is sealed in time after each taking to prevent air entry and moisture intrusion.
- Prevention of rodent and insect pests: In the process of storage, rodent and insect pests should be prevented from infringing on sodium hexametaphosphate. You can place rodent and insect repellent drugs or devices in the storage place, and inspect and deal with rodent and insect pests regularly.
III. Leakage treatment:
The storage area should be equipped with suitable materials to contain the leakage and to ensure safety.
In case of leakage of sodium hexametaphosphate, it should be immediately mixed with sand, dry lime or soda ash, and then collected to the waste disposal site for disposal. In case of inadvertent inhalation of sodium hexametaphosphate dust or solution, leave the site immediately to fresh air and keep the respiratory tract open. In case of inadvertent contact with eyes or skin, immediately flush with plenty of water and seek medical treatment.
IV. Precautions after partial use
Normally if a bag of sodium hexametaphosphate is not used up, the bag needs to be sealed and stored in a cool place.
Try to account for the dosage and use the whole package as much as possible. Because sodium hexametaphosphate is easy to absorb moisture, it is not easy to store the remaining part after the package is opened.
The storage place must be safe, especially to the place where children or other people can’t easily reach, and it is strictly forbidden to store sodium hexametaphosphate in the bedroom, dining room and other living places.
Food grade sodium hexametaphosphate generally has an expiration date, at present may be two years mostly, need to be strictly in accordance with the food additives storage and use. After the expiration date of industrial sodium hexametaphosphate, the active ingredients will not be greatly damaged, but the effect may be a little bit worse. Of course, if you have already confirmed the deterioration of sodium hexametaphosphate, you can stop using it in order to prevent harm.
V. Conclusion
Sodium hexametaphosphate is white crystal or powder at room temperature, it is soluble in water and hygroscopic. Therefore, when storing it, it should be protected from moisture, humidity, sunlight and heat, avoid contact with acid and alkali substances, and keep the container sealed. Attention should be paid to preventing leakage, preventing rodents and insects, and equipping the storage area to shelter the leakage. In addition, the validity period of industrial sodium hexametaphosphate is two years, but after the expiration, the active ingredients will not be greatly lost, so it can be continued to be used if it is confirmed that there is no deterioration.
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