Sodium dimethyldithiocarbamate

Sodium Dimethyldithiocarbamate

Sodium dimethyldithiocarbamate is a chemical compound with the formula C_H_NS_Na. It is the sodium salt of dimethyldithiocarbamic acid and is commonly used in various industrial applications.

Chemical Properties

Sodium dimethyldithiocarbamate is a white to light yellow crystalline powder. It is soluble in water and has a characteristic odor. The compound is stable under normal conditions but can decompose upon heating, releasing toxic gases such as carbon disulfide and dimethylamine.

Synthesis

Sodium dimethyldithiocarbamate is typically synthesized by the reaction of carbon disulfide with dimethylamine in the presence of sodium hydroxide. The reaction proceeds as follows:

CS_ + (CH_)_NH + NaOH _ C_H_NS_Na + H_O

Applications

Sodium dimethyldithiocarbamate is used in a variety of applications, including:

• Water Treatment: It is used as a biocide and fungicide in industrial water treatment processes.
• Agriculture: The compound is employed as a pesticide and fungicide to protect crops from fungal infections.
• Rubber Industry: It acts as a vulcanization accelerator in the production of rubber.
• Mining: It is used as a flotation agent in the mining industry to aid in the separation of minerals.

Safety and Handling

Sodium dimethyldithiocarbamate should be handled with care, as it can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. Protective equipment such as gloves and masks should be worn when handling the compound. In case of contact with skin or eyes, the affected area should be rinsed thoroughly with water.

Environmental Impact

The use of sodium dimethyldithiocarbamate in agriculture and industry can lead to environmental concerns. It is important to manage its use and disposal properly to prevent contamination of water sources and harm to aquatic life.

Related Pages

• Dithiocarbamate
• Carbon disulfide
• Dimethylamine
• Biocide
• Fungicide