Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate

Light blue-green monoclinic crystals

In agriculture, it can be used as a pesticide to prevent and control wheat smut, scab of apples and pears, and rot of fruit trees; it can also be used as a fertilizer to remove moss and lichen on tree trunks.

Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate: A Versatile Iron Compound

Definition:
Ferrous sulfate heptahydrate (FeSO₄·7H₂O) is a blue-green crystalline compound widely used as a source of iron in agriculture, industry, and medicine.

Key Characteristics of Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate:

1. Chemical Formula: FeSO₄·7H₂O

2. Appearance: Blue-green crystals or powder.

3. Molecular Weight: 278.01 g/mol

4. Solubility: Soluble in water, forming a pale green solution.

5. Stability: Loses water of crystallization upon heating, converting to monohydrate or anhydrous forms.

Applications of Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate:

1. Agriculture:

   • Soil Amendment: Corrects iron deficiencies (chlorosis) in crops.

   • Fertilizer Additive: Provides essential iron for plant growth.

2. Water Treatment:

   • Acts as a coagulant in wastewater treatment.

   • Used to remove phosphates and control odor in sewage systems.

3. Industrial Uses:

   • Pigment Production: Precursor for iron-based pigments.

   • Cement Industry: Reduces hexavalent chromium content in cement.

   • Dyeing: Mordant in textile dyeing processes.

4. Medical Applications:

   • Used as an iron supplement to treat anemia in humans and animals.

5. Other Uses:

   • Component in moss control products for lawns and gardens.

   • Catalyst in chemical synthesis processes.

Benefits in Agriculture:

1. Corrects Iron Deficiency:

   • Essential for chlorophyll synthesis and photosynthesis.

   • Prevents yellowing of leaves (iron chlorosis) in crops like citrus, vegetables, and turfgrass.

2. Enhances Soil Quality:

   • Improves soil pH in alkaline conditions.

   • Promotes nutrient availability and absorption.

Usage Recommendations:

1. As a Fertilizer:

   • Dosage: Apply 10–20 kg per hectare as a soil amendment.

   • Method: Dissolve in water for foliar spray or apply directly to soil.

2. For Water Treatment:

   • Dosage depends on specific application and water conditions.

   • Follow guidelines for safe and effective use.

3. In Medicine:

   • Use under medical supervision for treating iron deficiency anemia.

Storage and Handling:

• Storage:

  • Keep in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and sunlight.

  • Use sealed containers to prevent oxidation.

  
  

• Handling Precautions:

  • Avoid inhalation of dust and contact with skin or eyes.

  • Use gloves and protective clothing during handling.

  
  

Safety Considerations:

1. Toxicity:

   • Harmful if ingested in large quantities.

   • Keep out of reach of children and animals.

2. Environmental Impact:

   • Avoid excessive use to prevent soil and water contamination.

3. Disposal:

   • Follow local regulations for disposal of unused product and packaging.

Ferrous sulfate heptahydrate is a valuable compound for agriculture, industry, and health, offering versatile applications when used responsibly.