Sodium Cyanide

Description

Sodium Cyanide (NaCN) – Chemical Properties, Industrial Applications & Safety Information

AM CHEMICALS, based in Vista, California, USA, provides technical and educational information and options to Buy Sodium Cyanide for industrial professionals, laboratories, and academic institutions to support safe handling and environmental compliance.

Chemical Properties

• Chemical Name: Sodium Cyanide

• Molecular Formula: NaCN

• CAS Number: 143-33-9

• Molecular Weight: 49.01 g/mol

• Appearance: White crystalline solid

• Density: 1.59 g/cm³ at 25 °C

• Solubility: Highly soluble in water and ethanol

• Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling

• Melting Point: 563 °C

• pH: Strongly alkaline in aqueous solution

Key Characteristic:
Sodium Cyanide reacts rapidly with acids to produce hydrogen cyanide gas (HCN), a highly poisonous vapor. Therefore, it must be handled only by trained personnel in controlled, ventilated environments.

Industrial & Technical Applications

Although Sodium Cyanide is hazardous, it plays a controlled and essential role in several regulated industrial sectors when used responsibly.

Main Industrial Uses:

• Gold and Silver Extraction:
  Used under strictly monitored conditions in hydrometallurgical processes to separate and purify precious metals.

• Chemical Manufacturing:
  Serves as a precursor in the production of organic nitriles, cyanuric compounds, and certain pharmaceutical intermediates.

• Electroplating & Metal Surface Treatment:
  Utilized in electroplating baths for specialized industrial applications under safety controls.

• Laboratory Reagent:
  Used in chemical analysis and organic synthesis within permitted laboratory environments.

Each use requires strict adherence to environmental, occupational, and transport safety regulations to prevent exposure or release.

Safety & Handling Guidelines

Because of its acute toxicity, Sodium Cyanide must be stored, handled, and disposed of in accordance with OSHA, EPA, and international safety standards.

Safe Handling Recommendations:

• Only trained professionals should handle Sodium Cyanide.

• Always work in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods.

• Use chemical-resistant gloves, protective goggles, and respiratory protection.

• Avoid contact with acids or moisture.

• Maintain emergency cyanide antidote kits and spill containment plans on-site.

Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for comprehensive emergency, first-aid, and exposure-response protocols.

Environmental & Regulatory Considerations

AM CHEMICALS emphasizes responsible chemical management.
Sodium Cyanide is regulated under U.S. EPA, REACH, and OSHA Hazard Communication Standards due to its high toxicity and potential environmental impact.

Environmental Management Practices Include:

• Use only in closed-loop systems to prevent release into the environment.

• Neutralize waste through chemical oxidation or alkaline chlorination under professional supervision.

• Adhere to local and international regulations for cyanide waste transport and disposal.

• Monitor air and water quality regularly in operational zones.

Proper waste treatment and containment significantly reduce risks to workers, wildlife, and ecosystems.

Storage & Transport Information

• Store in tightly sealed containers made of compatible materials (HDPE or coated steel).

• Keep in a cool, dry, secure facility away from acids, moisture, and food items.

• Clearly label all containers with hazard warnings and emergency instructions.

• Transport must comply with UN 1689 regulations and DOT hazardous material codes.

Quality Documentation & Support

AM CHEMICALS provides technical documentation and educational resources for industries and laboratories that use Sodium Cyanide responsibly.

Available documents include:

• Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

• Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

• Regulatory compliance summaries (EPA, REACH, OSHA)

• Environmental management guidelines

Our technical team offers training support for chemical safety, risk assessment, and process optimization.

Commitment to Safety & Sustainability

At AM CHEMICALS, we advocate for responsible chemical sourcing, transparent safety practices, and environmental stewardship.
We promote safe use, storage, and disposal of Sodium Cyanide in full compliance with international environmental and occupational health standards.

Through ongoing education and innovation, AM CHEMICALS supports a safer and more sustainable approach to the industrial use of hazardous materials.