What Are The Common Uses Of Sodium Metabisulfite?
Sodium metabisulfite is a white or yellowish powder that is commonly used in various industries for its reducing and preserving properties. Some of the common uses of sodium metabisulfite include:
1. Food and Beverage Industry: Sodium metabisulfite is commonly used as a food preservative, especially in dried fruits, wine, and beer. It helps to prevent bacterial and fungal growth, which can spoil the food or beverage.
2. Water Treatment: Sodium metabisulfite is also used in water treatment plants to remove excess chlorine from drinking water. It acts as a reducing agent and neutralizes the chlorine, making the water safe to drink.
3. Photography: In photography, sodium metabisulfite is used as a reducing agent to develop film and to fix the final image. It helps to reduce the silver ions in the film to metallic silver, creating the image.
4. Textile Industry: Sodium metabisulfite is used in the textile industry as a bleaching agent for cotton and wool fabrics. It helps to remove any color impurities, leaving the fabric white.
5. Other Uses: Sodium metabisulfite is also used in other industries, such as pulp and paper production, oil drilling, and as a laboratory reagent.
It should be noted that sodium metabisulfite can be dangerous if not handled properly, and should be used with care. It can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems if inhaled.