Sodium Nitrite
Sodium Nitrite (NaNO₂) Industrial Grade is an inorganic salt renowned for its strong reducing properties and its crucial role in nitrogen chemistry. It is the primary industrial source for the nitrite ion (NO₂⁻). Unlike its close relative, sodium nitrate, the nitrite ion is a potent reducing agent.
It is an essential, high-volume chemical used in bulk industrial applications such as corrosion inhibition, the synthesis of organic dyes and pigments (diazotization), rubber manufacturing, and heat transfer fluids, where it provides thermal stability and acts as an antioxidant.
Main Function and Characteristics
The primary function is Reducing Agent and Chemical Intermediate. In corrosion control, it forms a protective passivation layer on metal surfaces; in synthesis, it is the key ingredient for manufacturing azo dyes.
| CHARACTERISTIC | VALUE RANGE | PRIMARY INDUSTRIAL FUNCTION |
|---|---|---|
| Purity (NaNO₂ min) | 98.5% min (Technical Grade) | High-purity feedstock for chemical and industrial processes. |
| Oxidation State of Nitrogen | +3 | Allows it to act as either a reducing or oxidizing agent, depending on the reaction. |
| Solubility | HIGH | Readily dissolves in water for use in liquid process baths and solutions. |
CLASSIFICATION
- Material Focus: Inorganic Salt / Reducing Agent
- Primary Application Focus: Nitrite Donor
- Applications: Corrosion Inhibitors, Dye Manufacturing, Heat Transfer Salts, Rubber Additives
Sodium Nitrite
1. Corrosion Inhibition Mechanism
One of the most critical industrial applications of NaNO₂ is in preventing corrosion:
- Passivation: When added to closed-loop water systems (e.g., cooling towers, pipelines, process equipment), the nitrite ion chemically reacts with the surface of iron and steel. It promotes the formation of a dense, stable, non-porous layer of Gamma-Iron(III) Oxide (γ-Fe₂O₃) on the metal surface. This protective, passive oxide layer isolates the underlying metal from the corrosive water environment, effectively halting the corrosion process.
- Heat Transfer Fluids: It is a vital component in molten salt mixtures (along with NaNO₃ and KNO₃) used for industrial heat transfer. Here, it functions both as a freeze-point depressant and an antioxidant to protect the system’s metal components from chemical degradation at high operating temperatures (300°C to 550°C).
2. Chemical Intermediate (Diazotization)
Sodium Nitrite is indispensable in the production of azo dyes and pigments, which account for the majority of synthetic coloring agents:
- Diazotization Reaction: It is the key reagent used to react with primary aromatic amines under acidic conditions to form diazonium salts. These salts are highly reactive intermediates that are then coupled with other organic molecules to form the brightly colored, high-fastness azo dyes and pigments used in textiles, printing inks, and paints.
3. Other Industrial Applications
- Rubber Manufacturing: Used as an anti-scorching agent and retardant in the production of synthetic rubber to control the vulcanization process.
- Pickling and Metal Finishing: Used in specialized metal surface treatments and chemical baths to clean and condition steel and other alloys.
- Bleaching: In the textile industry, it can function as a mild bleaching or stripping agent for certain fibers.
4. Safety Note
Sodium Nitrite is a powerful chemical intermediate and an oxidizer. Although essential for many industries, it is classified as toxic and must be handled with strict safety protocols. It must never be mixed with ammonium salts or acids without proper control, as dangerous reactions can occur.
✨ Customization Services
We offer product customization services, allowing you to tailor the appearance, dimensions, or specific markings of items like refractory shapes or bricks. This includes options for incorporating specific geometric requirements to ensure seamless integration into your process systems.
🔬 Sampling for Testing & Validation
Free product samples are available for thorough testing and validation. This allows you to confirm the quality, compatibility, and performance of our materials—such as specific bricks, castables, or raw materials—before committing to a full order.
💡 Expertise in Refractory Solutions
Leverage our deep expertise to receive detailed, application-specific refractory solutions. We move beyond just selling products by providing comprehensive plans that encompass material selection, installation guidance, and performance optimization to maximize the lifespan and efficiency of your high-temperature processes.
Rabatec products are exclusively manufactured in facilities that have achieved rigorous ISO certifications across Quality (ISO 9001), Environmental Management, and Occupational Health & Safety. This commitment ensures every product, from refractory bricks to specialized equipment, meets the highest global benchmarks for performance, sustainability, and workplace safety.
📦 Logistics Excellence: Shipping, Packaging, and Marking
Minimizing Risk: We manage all logistics to minimize handling touchpoints and transit shock. Our carriers are pre-vetted for their experience in transporting heavy, fragile, and sensitive industrial materials.
Traceability: Every shipment includes comprehensive documentation and tracking information, providing end-to-end visibility and ensuring precise delivery coordination for your site.
Protection is Paramount: Our packaging strictly follows industry standards to prevent damage, corner chipping, and moisture absorption—especially critical for materials like Basic Refractory Bricks and Refractory Mortars & Mixes.
Robust Palletization: Products are secured on fumigated, high-strength export pallets (e.g., 1100x950mm or similar sturdy dimensions) using heavy-duty strapping and durable protective wrapping (polyethylene sheeting, cardboard, etc.) to withstand long-distance travel and multiple loadings.
Moisture Control: Sensitive materials are protected with appropriate sealing and, where necessary, desiccants or moisture-vapor proof enclosures to maintain the product's integrity until installation.
Clear Identification: All outer packaging is clearly marked on multiple sides with large, legible text for immediate identification and safe handling.
Full Traceability: Markings include all essential data points: Product Name, Quality Grade, Batch Number, Quantity, Net/Gross Weight, Order Number, and the Final Destination/Construction Area. This ensures every pallet can be accounted for and correctly staged upon arrival.
Safety & Compliance: We adhere to all regulatory requirements for marking, labeling, and placarding—especially for any items classified as Dangerous Goods—to ensure full compliance with international and domestic transport regulations.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question | Elaborated Answer |
Q: What is the Refractoriness Under Load (RUL) of your refractories? | A: Refractoriness Under Load (RUL) is a critical property that defines the maximum temperature our materials can withstand while under compressive stress before deforming (softening). Since we offer a wide range of materials—from Alumina-Silicate Bricks to high-performance Silicon Carbide Bricks—the RUL varies significantly. For specific product data, please refer to the product data sheet or submit a quote request for the material you are interested in. |
Q: Where are the Rabatec refractories and materials produced? | A: Our products are primarily sourced from specialized manufacturing plants in China. Crucially, these facilities have all undergone rigorous audits and achieved comprehensive ISO certifications (Quality, Environment, and Safety), ensuring that production adheres to the highest global standards for consistency and performance. |
Q: What refractory materials does the company offer? | A: We supply a comprehensive portfolio of advanced refractory solutions, including: Shaped Products: Alumina & Silica Bricks, Basic & Specialized Bricks (e.g., Magnesia), SiC & Structural Ceramics, and Precast Shapes. Monolithic Products: Refractory Castables, Mixes & Mortars. Insulation: Insulation Fibre and High-Performance Insulation Products. |
Q: How should I choose the appropriate refractory material for my application? | A: Selecting the correct refractory is paramount to process efficiency. The choice depends on three key factors: 1. Operating Environment: Maximum process temperature and thermal cycling (shock). 2. Chemical Attack: Type of slag, molten metal, or corrosive gas being handled (acidic, neutral, or basic). 3. Mechanical Stress: Abrasion, erosion, and static load requirements. We recommend utilizing our detailed refractory solutions service to consult with our engineers for an optimized, application-specific recommendation. |
Q: Which monolithic material should I choose when patching an existing lining? | A: For patching and minor repairs, the ideal monolithic material depends on the parent lining material, the patching depth, and the need for a rapid return to service. Common choices include: Refractory Mortars & Mixes (for minor joints/surfaces) or Plastic Refractories (for areas requiring physical compaction). Always choose a patch material chemically compatible with the existing lining to ensure proper bonding and service life. |
Q: Can I receive product samples before placing a major order? | A: Yes. We gladly provide product samples for your internal testing and validation purposes. This ensures you can confirm the quality, composition, and fit of the material—such as our Refractory Castables or Alumina-Silicate Bricks—in your specific operational environment before committing to a bulk purchase. |
Q: Do you provide certifications to verify material quality? | A: Absolutely. We provide product-related inspection certificates and quality assurance documentation upon request. This verifies that your order has passed all internal quality control checks and meets the required material specifications and industry standards. |
Q: What measures are taken for product protection during transport? | A: We ensure quick, reliable transport by using robust, industrial packaging that strictly follows industry standards. This includes high-strength palletization, heavy-duty strapping, and weather-resistant wrapping to protect fragile items like bricks and mixes from corner chipping, mechanical damage, and moisture during transit. |
