Sodium Sulfide (Na₂S 60%–62%) Supplier South Africa

What Is Sodium Sulfide?

Sodium sulfide (Na₂S) at 60%–62% assay is a technical grade inorganic salt that provides sulfide ion (S²⁻ and HS⁻) in alkaline aqueous solution. It is a stronger sulphide source than sodium hydrosulphide (NaHS) in terms of sulfide ion delivery per kilogram, and is used in mineral processing primarily for sulphidisation of copper oxide minerals, activation of zinc sulphide (sphalerite), and precipitation of heavy metals from hydrometallurgical solutions. Na₂S is supplied as yellow to red-brown flakes (predominantly the nonahydrate Na₂S·9H₂O or anhydrous/partial hydrate forms) and must be dissolved in water before use.

Sulphidisation and Flotation Activation

Like sodium hydrosulphide, sodium sulfide is used to sulphidise the surface of copper oxide and secondary copper minerals (malachite, azurite, cuprite, chrysocolla) prior to flotation with xanthate collectors. Sulphidisation with Na₂S creates a thin copper sulphide surface film that responds to xanthate collectors, enabling flotation of otherwise non-floating oxide copper minerals. The reaction is rapid at flotation pH and the sulphidisation step is typically carried out in a conditioning tank upstream of the flotation circuit. Dosage is typically 0.5–3 kg/t depending on oxide copper content and mineral type.

Supply and Safety

Terracore Chemicals supplies sodium sulfide flake (60%–62% Na₂S) in 25 kg bags, 50 kg drums, and 1 MT bulk bags. Na₂S must be kept dry and away from acids — contact with acid or acidic wastewater produces toxic H₂S gas. Storage and handling areas require adequate ventilation and H₂S detection equipment. Full SDS, handling instructions, and dissolution procedures are provided with all orders.