Sodium sulfite (Na₂SO₃) plays a critical role in environmental and water treatment, particularly as an effective oxygen scavenger in boiler and cooling water systems. Its ability to remove dissolved oxygen from water makes it a vital component in preventing corrosion and maintaining system efficiency.
Understanding the Role of Oxygen Scavengers
Oxygen, when present in water, can cause significant damage to metal surfaces in boiler and cooling water systems. This damage manifests as corrosion, leading to:
Sodium Sulfite: The Solution
Sodium sulfite acts as a powerful oxygen scavenger, removing dissolved oxygen from water through a chemical reaction. It reacts with oxygen to form sulfates, effectively depleting the oxygen content and mitigating its corrosive effects. This process is particularly effective in:
Advantages of Sodium Sulfite
Safety Considerations
While sodium sulfite is an effective and commonly used chemical, it's crucial to handle it with caution:
Conclusion
Sodium sulfite plays a critical role in environmental and water treatment, effectively preventing corrosion and ensuring the longevity and efficiency of boiler and cooling water systems. Its widespread use highlights its effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and environmental benefits. However, it is important to handle it safely and responsibly to minimize potential risks.
Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.
1. What is the primary function of sodium sulfite in water treatment?
a) To increase water acidity b) To remove dissolved oxygen c) To soften water d) To kill bacteria
b) To remove dissolved oxygen
2. Why is removing dissolved oxygen from water important in boiler and cooling water systems?
a) Oxygen promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria. b) Oxygen can cause corrosion of metal components. c) Oxygen increases the efficiency of heat transfer. d) Oxygen makes water more palatable.
b) Oxygen can cause corrosion of metal components.
3. What is the byproduct of the reaction between sodium sulfite and dissolved oxygen?
a) Sodium hydroxide b) Sulfuric acid c) Sulfates d) Hydrogen sulfide
c) Sulfates
4. Which of the following is NOT an advantage of using sodium sulfite as an oxygen scavenger?
a) Effective oxygen removal b) Easy to use and control c) Cost-effective d) It kills all bacteria in the water
d) It kills all bacteria in the water
5. What is a crucial safety consideration when handling sodium sulfite?
a) It is highly flammable. b) It can cause irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory system. c) It is highly explosive. d) It is toxic if ingested.
b) It can cause irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
Problem:
A boiler system is experiencing significant corrosion due to dissolved oxygen in the water. The system requires a sodium sulfite dosage to reduce the oxygen content to an acceptable level.
You are given the following information:
Task:
Instructions:
**1. Oxygen to be removed:** 8 ppm - 0.5 ppm = 7.5 ppm **2. Sodium sulfite dosage:** 7.5 ppm * 1 kg/10 ppm = 0.75 kg/hour **3. Total sodium sulfite for 24 hours:** 0.75 kg/hour * 24 hours = 18 kg
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