Products
Pure sodium chlorate is available in specialized stores. It should not be confused with sodium chloride!
Structure and properties
Sodium chlorate (NaClO3, Mr = 106.4 g/mol) is the sodium salt of chloric acid (HClO3). It exists as a white, crystalline and odorless powder and is readily soluble in water.
Effects
Sodium chlorate has herbicidal and oxidizing properties. Under sufficient heat, oxygen is formed:
- 2 NaClO3 (sodium chlorate ) 2 NaCl (sodium chloride) + 3 O2 (oxygen)
Areas of application
- Sodium chlorate was formerly used as a so-called weed salt as a herbicide for killing plants. It is nonselective and has a broad spectrum of activity. In the EU and in many countries, it is no longer approved for this purpose.
- Technically used as a bleaching agent.
Abuse
Sodium chlorate can be misused for the production of explosives. It is one of the precursors for explosives.
Adverse effects
Sodium chlorate, as a strong oxidizing agent, has oxidizing properties and can cause fires and explosions. It is highly harmful to health and toxic to aquatic organisms when ingested.
