The Comprehensive Guide to Sodium Metal: Prices, Properties, and Applications
Sodium metal is a vital element in various industries, known for its reactivity and unique properties. Understanding its applications, pricing, and technical specifications is essential for businesses and researchers alike. This guide aims to provide a thorough overview of sodium metal, comparing different types and their applications, and delving into current market trends and pricing.
Sodium Metal Types and Applications
| Type | Purity | Common Applications | Price Range (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sodium Metal | ≥99.8% | Chemical synthesis, heat exchange in reactors | $136.00 – $621.00 (Carolina Chemical) |
| Sodium Borohydride | >95% | Reducing agent in organic chemistry | Varies by supplier |
| Sodium Azide | >90% | Explosives, pharmaceutical applications | Varies by supplier |
| Sodium Vapor | N/A | Street lighting, industrial applications | Varies by supplier |
| Sodium Chloride (NaCl) | N/A | Table salt, food industry | $49 USD/month (ScrapMonster subscription) |
| High Purity Sodium | ≥99.5% | Laboratory research | €11.90 per gram (NovaElements) |
Properties of Sodium Metal
Sodium metal is characterized by its soft, silvery-white appearance and high reactivity. It is classified as an alkali metal, meaning it has a single electron in its outer shell that it readily donates. This property makes sodium highly reactive, especially with water, where it can produce hydrogen gas and sodium hydroxide.
Physical Properties
- Atomic Number: 11
- Density: 0.97 g/cm³
- Melting Point: 97.79 °C
- Boiling Point: 883 °C
- Reactivity: Highly reactive, especially with water
Chemical Properties
Sodium metal reacts vigorously with water to produce sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and hydrogen gas (H₂). Due to this reaction, it must be stored under oil or in an inert atmosphere to prevent accidental contact with moisture.
Sodium Production and Market Dynamics
Sodium is primarily produced through the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride, a method that has been in use since the 1920s. The global production of sodium metal is limited, with approximately 100,000 tonnes produced annually. The price of sodium is subject to fluctuations based on supply and demand dynamics, energy prices, and market speculation.
Current Pricing Trends
Recent data suggests that the price of pure sodium metal has seen fluctuations, averaging around $70 per kilogram in 2019, as indicated by sources like material-properties.org. Current prices may vary significantly based on purity and supplier, as seen from carolinachemical.com and www.laballey.com.
Applications of Sodium Metal
Sodium metal has diverse applications across various industries. Here are some of the most notable uses:
1. Chemical Synthesis
Sodium is used as a reducing agent in various chemical reactions, particularly in the production of sodium borohydride and sodium azide. These compounds are critical in organic synthesis and pharmaceuticals.
2. Industrial Uses
In the nuclear industry, sodium metal serves as a heat exchange medium due to its excellent thermal conductivity. It is employed in reactors where liquid sodium is circulated to absorb and transfer heat.
3. Sodium Vapor Lamps
Sodium vapor lamps, which produce a characteristic yellow light, are widely used in street lighting and industrial applications. The sodium gas in these lamps emits light when an electric current passes through it.
4. Laboratory Research
High-purity sodium metal is essential in laboratory settings for various experimental procedures, including chemical analysis and synthesis of new compounds.
Technical Features of Sodium Metal
| Feature | Sodium Metal | Sodium Borohydride | Sodium Azide | Sodium Vapor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purity | ≥99.8% | >95% | >90% | N/A |
| State | Solid | Solid | Solid | Gas |
| Reactivity | Highly reactive | Moderate | High | Low |
| Primary Use | Chemical synthesis | Reducing agent | Explosives | Lighting |
| Handling | Under oil or inert gas | Standard precautions | Hazardous | Standard precautions |
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Conclusion
Sodium metal plays a crucial role in various industries, from chemical synthesis to energy production in nuclear reactors. Its unique properties and reactivity make it indispensable in many applications. Understanding pricing trends and technical specifications is vital for industry stakeholders, ensuring informed decisions when sourcing sodium.
FAQ
What is sodium metal used for?
Sodium metal is primarily used in chemical synthesis, as a reducing agent, in the production of sodium borohydride and sodium azide, and in heat exchange systems in nuclear reactors.
How is sodium metal produced?
Sodium is produced through the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride, a process that has been in use since the 1920s.
What are the hazards associated with sodium metal?
Sodium metal is highly reactive, especially with water, producing flammable hydrogen gas. It can cause severe burns and must be handled with care.
What is the average price of sodium metal?
The price of sodium metal varies significantly based on purity and supplier, with estimates around $70 per kilogram, as indicated by material-properties.org.
Where can I buy sodium metal?
Sodium metal can be purchased from various suppliers, including carolinachemical.com and novaelements.com.
What is sodium vapor used for?
Sodium vapor is primarily used in street lighting and industrial applications due to its efficient light output.
Why is sodium stored under oil?
Sodium is stored under oil to prevent it from reacting with moisture in the air, which can lead to dangerous reactions.
What is the purity level of high-purity sodium metal?
High-purity sodium metal typically has a purity of ≥99.8%, making it suitable for laboratory and industrial applications.
Can sodium metal be recycled?
Sodium metal recycling is limited due to its reactivity, but processes exist for recovering sodium from certain industrial applications.
What safety precautions should be taken when handling sodium metal?
When handling sodium metal, it’s essential to wear protective gear, work in a well-ventilated area, and keep it away from moisture and incompatible substances.
