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Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate

Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate is used in water treatment and manufacturing as a key iron source.

Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate, chemically Iron(II) sulfate heptahydrate (FeSO4·7H2O), is a blue-green crystalline solid primarily used as a reliable source of iron in various industrial and agricultural processes.

Packaging

25kg bags, 50kg bags, 200kg drums

Supply Region

East Africa, Kenya

Supplier

Zenco Systems Ltd

What is Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate?

Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate, chemically Iron(II) sulfate heptahydrate (FeSO4·7H2O), is a blue-green crystalline solid primarily used as a reliable source of iron in various industrial and agricultural processes. Its applications span essential sectors such as water and wastewater treatment, agriculture, mining, and manufacturing across East Africa. In Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring countries, it supports environmental management, nutrient supplementation, and chemical manufacturing.

The compound’s commercial importance lies in its versatility and cost-efficiency as an iron donor and reducing agent. Water treatment plants use it to precipitate and remove phosphates and heavy metals, sustaining clean water supplies and regulatory compliance. Agricultural sectors rely on it for soil amendment and fertilizer formulations, correcting iron deficiencies that limit crop productivity. Zenco Systems Ltd supplies Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate with dependable quality and regional logistics expertise, ensuring uninterrupted industrial operations across East Africa.

Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate: Detailed Product Overview

Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate is composed of Iron(II) ions complexed with sulfate ions and seven water molecules, making it a well-hydrated salt. The chemical formula FeSO4·7H2O reflects its crystal structure, which is responsible for the characteristic blue-green crystalline appearance. When dissolved in water, it dissociates to release Fe2+ ions that actively participate in redox reactions and nutrient supplementation.

Its primary functional attribute is providing bioavailable iron, which is critical for biochemical processes in plants, animals, and water treatment microorganisms. In water treatment, the Fe2+ ions react with contaminants such as phosphates to produce insoluble precipitates that can be separated from water. This makes ferrous sulphate a cost-effective agent for controlling eutrophication and reducing toxic metal ions.

Performance characteristics relevant to buyers include its solubility (fully soluble in water), pH behavior (slightly acidic solutions when dissolved), and stability under recommended storage. It acts as a reducing agent, meaning it prevents oxidation of iron from ferrous (Fe2+) to ferric (Fe3+) during handling and application, maintaining its effectiveness. This property is essential in pigment and dye industries where precise iron oxidation states influence product color and consistency.

Purity and grade specifications vary depending on intended use—industrial, agricultural, or pharmaceutical grades exist, each with distinct impurity thresholds. Zenco Systems Ltd advises confirming exact purity levels at purchase to match processing requirements. Packaging formats and transport conditions also affect product integrity given its hygroscopic nature, which necessitates moisture-resistant containers.

Overall, Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate’s chemical properties and functional roles make it a cornerstone chemical in the agricultural chemicals category, supporting sustainable practices and efficient manufacturing throughout East Africa.

Applications and Uses of Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate

Water Treatment

In municipal and industrial water treatment, Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate is used to precipitate phosphates and remove heavy metals. The ferrous ions react with contaminant ions to form insoluble compounds, which settle out of the water, aiding in the prevention of eutrophication and ensuring compliance with environmental discharge standards. Typical dosing depends on phosphate concentration but generally ranges from a few milligrams to several grams per litre. Its effectiveness as a coagulant reduces turbidity and improves water clarity.

Wastewater Treatment

Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate plays a critical role in industrial and municipal wastewater treatment by reducing soluble contaminants and facilitating sludge conditioning. It acts as a reducing agent that can convert toxic hexavalent chromium to less hazardous trivalent chromium and precipitates metals such as arsenic and mercury. This chemical is often applied in controlled doses to optimize removal efficiency without increasing sludge volume excessively.

Iron Supplementation

As an iron source, Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate addresses iron deficiencies in both agricultural soils and animal feeds. In agriculture, applying it corrects chlorosis symptoms by delivering bioavailable iron to crops, enhancing chlorophyll synthesis and photosynthesis. In feed production, it supplements iron vital for animal growth and blood health. Dosage is formulated carefully to avoid toxicity while ensuring nutritional adequacy.

Feed Additive in Manufacturing

In feed manufacturing, Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate is incorporated as a micro-mineral additive to ensure optimal iron levels in livestock diets. Its water solubility allows uniform mixing and bioavailability, supporting red blood cell formation and metabolic functions. Regulatory guidelines in Kenya and neighboring countries dictate maximum inclusion rates to safeguard animal health and product safety.

Mining Operations

Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate is employed in mining for ore flotation and metal recovery processes. Its chemical properties help in precipitating impurities and conditioning slurry pH to optimize mineral separation. Additionally, it serves as a reagent in leaching operations and for treating effluents to remove dissolved metals before discharge.

Dyeing and Pigment Industry

The reducing properties of Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate are critical in the dye and pigment sectors where it controls iron oxidation states—directly impacting color development and fastness. It is used to synthesize iron-based pigments and stabilize vat dyes, providing consistent product quality for textile and paint applications.

Agricultural Fertilizers

In fertilizer formulations, Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate supplies readily available iron to enrich soil, correcting deficiencies that limit crop yield. It is incorporated into blends with other macronutrients to improve nutrient balance. The compound’s high solubility ensures rapid absorption by plant roots, making it suitable for foliar spraying and soil incorporation.

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Though less common, pharmaceutical uses of Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate include iron supplements for human health products. It provides bioavailable iron necessary to treat anemia, often formulated into tablets or syrups. Pharmaceutical grade material requires strict purity and contaminant controls, which Zenco Systems Ltd can advise on.

Looking for alternatives for a specific process? Browse the full Agricultural Chemicals range or ask our technical team which grade fits your application.

Benefits and Advantages

Reliable Source of Bioavailable Iron

Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate consistently delivers ferrous ions in a soluble form, allowing efficient iron uptake in agricultural and industrial processes. This reliability ensures predictable treatment outcomes in water purification and nutrient supplementation, reducing variability and waste.

Cost-Effective and Versatile

Its multi-industry applicability and relatively low cost per unit of active iron make it an economically attractive choice. Users benefit from one chemical fulfilling multiple roles—from water treatment to feed additives—cutting procurement complexity and storage requirements.

Stable Hydrated Form for Easy Handling

The heptahydrate crystalline structure offers good shelf life and reduced dust compared to anhydrous forms. This enhances safety during transportation and handling, particularly under East Africa’s often humid conditions, minimizing product degradation and loss.

Effective Reducing Agent in Industrial Processes

Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate maintains iron in the ferrous state, crucial in pigment synthesis and contamination control. This chemical stability prevents unwanted oxidation reactions that could compromise product quality, improving process control.

Packaging Information

Zenco Systems Ltd supplies Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate in robust packaging tailored for East African logistics. Standard options include 25kg and 50kg moisture-resistant woven bags suitable for manual handling and regional distribution. For larger industrial users, 200kg drums are available, providing bulk supply efficiency. Packaging is designed to protect the product from moisture uptake, which could degrade quality, and is regularly inspected to meet transportation safety regulations across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Standard formats: 25kg bags, 50kg bags, 200kg drums

Storage and Handling

Store Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, avoiding exposure to moisture which can cause caking. Use corrosion-resistant containers or original sealed packaging to maintain chemical integrity. It should be segregated from strong oxidizers, alkalis, and acids to prevent hazardous reactions. Shelf life depends on storage conditions but typically extends to 1-2 years when kept sealed. During handling, minimize dust generation and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves and eye protection.

Safety Information

Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate is classified as an irritant; direct contact can cause skin and eye irritation. When handling, wear gloves, goggles, and protective clothing. Avoid inhalation of dust by using adequate respiratory protection in dusty environments. In case of contact, flush affected areas with plenty of water. Spills should be contained and cleaned up using non-combustible absorbents. Dispose of according to local environmental regulations. Refer to the product SDS from Zenco Systems Ltd for comprehensive safety and emergency procedures.

Technical Specifications

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
FormulaFeSO4·7H2O
Packaging25kg bags, 50kg bags, 200kg drums
AppearanceBlue-green crystalline solid
CAS Number7782-63-0
SolubilitySoluble in water
Chemical NameIron(II) sulfate heptahydrate
pH (1% solution)Approximately 3 - 4
Storage ConditionsCool, dry place; protect from moisture

Applications

  • Water treatment
  • Wastewater treatment
  • Iron supplementation
  • Feed additive
  • Mining operations
  • Dyeing and pigment industry
  • Agricultural fertilizers
  • Pharmaceutical manufacturing

Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
FormulaFeSO4·7H2O
Packaging25kg bags, 50kg bags, 200kg drums
AppearanceBlue-green crystalline solid
CAS Number7782-63-0
SolubilitySoluble in water
Chemical NameIron(II) sulfate heptahydrate
pH (1% solution)Approximately 3 - 4
Storage ConditionsCool, dry place; protect from moisture

Product Features

  • - Blue-green crystalline solid
  • - Highly soluble in water
  • - Contains seven water molecules per formula unit
  • - Effective reducing agent
  • - Stable hydrated form for easier handling
  • - Consistent iron bioavailability

Industries Served

  • - Water and wastewater treatment
  • - Agriculture and fertilizers
  • - Mining and mineral processing
  • - Chemical manufacturing
  • - Feed and pharmaceutical production
  • - Textile dyeing and pigment industries

Product Overview

Frequently Asked Questions About Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate

What is Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate used for in water treatment?

It is used to precipitate phosphates and heavy metals, helping remove contaminants from water by forming insoluble compounds that can be filtered out.

How should I store Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate to maintain quality?

Store it in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from moisture and incompatible chemicals. Use original sealed packaging or corrosion-resistant containers to prevent degradation.

Can Zenco Systems Ltd supply Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate outside Kenya?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd distributes to Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and surrounding East African countries, ensuring reliable delivery and regional regulatory compliance.

What packaging sizes are available for this chemical?

Standard packaging includes 25kg and 50kg bags, as well as 200kg drums, suitable for various volumes required by industries in East Africa.

Is Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate safe to handle without PPE?

No. It can cause skin and eye irritation, so gloves, protective eyewear, and appropriate clothing are recommended during handling.

Does Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate have a long shelf life?

When stored properly in sealed containers away from moisture, it typically remains stable for 1-2 years.

What purity levels can I expect from Zenco Systems Ltd’s Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate?

Purity varies by grade and application; confirm exact specifications with Zenco Systems Ltd at the time of ordering.

Is this chemical suitable for use as a pharmaceutical-grade iron supplement?

Pharmaceutical applications require strict purity standards; consult with Zenco Systems Ltd to confirm grade suitability.

How does Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate function as a reducing agent?

It maintains iron in the ferrous (Fe2+) state, preventing oxidation to ferric (Fe3+), which is important in processes like dyeing and pigment production.

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