Sodium Sulfide

(nonahydrate) [1313-84-4] H18Na2O9S (MW 240.18) InChI = 1S/2Na.9H2O.S/h;;9*1H2; InChIKey = UIINQVYGFKNSPA-UHFFFAOYSA-N (anhydrous) [1313-82-2] Na2S (MW 78.05) InChI = 1S/2Na.S InChIKey = CXPWOVUZRAFMDA-UHFFFAOYSA-N (nucleophile and reducing agent derived from H2S; reagent for the synthesis of thiols,2 thioethers,3 and disulfides;4 reduces aromatic nitro compounds to amines5) Physical Data: mp ∼50 °C (hydrate, loses most of its water below 100 °C); mp 1180 ± 10 °C (pure Na2S); d 1.43 g cm−3 (anhydrous 1.86 g cm−3); E0 (S2− → S + 2e) +0.48 V. Solubility: v sol cold and hot water; somewhat sol methanol, ethanol; insol acetone, benzene, ether. Form Supplied in: colorless or pale yellow crystalline solid. May contain NaSH and small amounts of Na2S2O3, Na2SO3, NaOH, Na2CO3, NaCl, Na2S2O4, and Na2SO4. Also available as essentially anhydrous fused chips of 60% Na2S. The form used in synthesis is not always specified. A pentahydrate is also known. Analysis of Reagent Purity: titration methods (e.g. iodometric) are available. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: light (discolors) and air sensitive. Produces H2S on exposure to air. Corrosive; flammable; deliquescent. Refrigerate. Incompatible with oxidizing agents and strong acids. Destructive of mucous membranes, eyes, skin. Absorbed through the skin. Inhalation can be fatal. Use a well-ventilated hood, goggles, and gloves.