What are the main components of sulfur?

Sulfur is commonly seen in chemistry. It is usually light yellow in color and in the form of crystals or powder. It has a peculiar smell and is not easily dissolved in water but is easily soluble in carbon disulfide. It is often used to make fuel, pesticides, matches, gunpowder, etc. Although sulfur is a low-toxic substance, the gas produced after its combustion is fatal to the human body. So, what are the main components of sulfur? Let us find out through the following.

Sulfur is also known as sulfur, colloidal sulfur, and sulfur block. The appearance is light yellow brittle crystals or powder with a special odor. The molecular weight is 32.06, the vapor pressure is 0.13 kPa, the flash point is 207°C, the melting point is 119°C, the boiling point is 444.6°C, and the relative density (water = 1) is 2.0. Sulfur is insoluble in water, slightly soluble in ethanol and ether, and easily soluble in carbon disulfide. As a flammable solid, sulfur is mainly used in the manufacture of dyes, pesticides, matches, gunpowder, rubber, rayon, etc.

Although sulfur is a low-toxic hazardous chemical from a toxicological point of view, its vapor and the sulfur dioxide produced by sulfur combustion are highly toxic to the human body. It will react violently when it comes into contact with halogens, metal powders, etc. Sulfur is a poor conductor and is prone to generate static charge during storage and transportation, which can cause sulfur dust to catch fire. Dust or vapor can form explosive mixtures when mixed with air or oxidants. After a sulfur accident, several situations generally occur, such as inhalation, ingestion, and absorption through the skin. Because it can be partially converted into hydrogen sulfide in the intestine and then absorbed, oral intake of large amounts can lead to hydrogen sulfide poisoning.

The systemic toxic effects of acute hydrogen sulfide poisoning manifest as central nervous system symptoms including headache, dizziness, fatigue, vomiting, coma, etc. Sulfur can also cause conjunctivitis and skin eczema. Weakly irritating to skin. In the event of a sulfur leak, the leaked contaminated area should be isolated, entry and exit restricted, and the fire source cut off. Emergency response personnel should wear self-priming filter dust masks and wear general work clothes. People should not come into direct contact with the leaked material. In case of a small amount of leakage, avoid creating dust and use a clean shovel to collect the leaked material in a dry, clean, covered container and transfer it to a safe place.

After reading the above, we know what the main components of sulfur are. If you use sulfur, you should be extra careful to avoid poisoning. Do not touch it with your hands easily as it will damage your skin. If you accidentally inhale it and get poisoned, you should go to the hospital for treatment in time. Sulfur is quite harmful and is usually produced in factories. It is best not to have sulfur at home, especially if there are children at home.