Sodium thiocyanate
Sodium thiocyanate (CAS 540-72-7), with the linear formula NaSCN and a molecular weight of 81.07 g/mol, is a versatile inorganic salt. It exists as a white crystalline solid and is highly soluble in water. Sodium thiocyanate serves as a key intermediate in various chemical syntheses, particularly in organic chemistry and as a precursor for other thiocyanate compounds.
- IUPAC
- Sodium isothiocyanate,Sodium rhodanate,Sodium rhodanide,Sodium sulfocyanate
- Synonyms
- Sodium isothiocyanateSodium rhodanateSodium rhodanideSodium sulfocyanate

Organic Synthesis
Sodium thiocyanate is widely employed as a thiocyanating agent in organic synthesis, facilitating the introduction of the thiocyanate group into organic molecules for the creation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
Dye Manufacturing
It acts as a crucial reagent in the production of dyes and pigments, contributing to the development of various colourants used in textiles and other industries.
Corrosion Inhibition
Sodium thiocyanate can be utilised as a corrosion inhibitor in certain industrial applications, helping to protect metal surfaces from degradation.
Laboratory Reagent
In laboratory settings, it is used as a reagent for qualitative and quantitative analysis and in various research applications within chemistry.
| Molecular weight | 81.07 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | NaSCN |
| Assay | ≥98.0% |
| Density | 1.295 g/mL at 20 °C |
| Solubility | H2O: soluble8 M at 20 °C, clear, colorless |
| pH | 5-8 (25 °C, 8 M in H2O) |
| Concentration | 8 M in H2O |
| Melting point | 287 °C (dec.)(lit.) |
| Impurities tested | ≤0.005% insolubles≤0.2% Na2CO3 |

Hazard statements
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H312Harmful in contact with skin
- H332Harmful if inhaled
- H412Harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
Precautionary statements
- P273Avoid release to the environment
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
|---|---|
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 20/21/22-32-52/53 |
| Safety statements (S) | 13-36/37-46-61 |
| Supplemental hazards | Contact with acids liberates very toxic gas. |
| Cation traces | Fe: ≤2 ppmNH4+: ≤0.002%heavy metals (as Pb): ≤5 ppm |
| Anion traces | S2-: ≤0.001%chloride (Cl-): ≤0.01%sulfate (SO42-): ≤0.01% |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Absorption | absorption8M/276 nm, H2O cut-off |
|---|
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Sodium thiocyanate used for?
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Sodium thiocyanate is primarily used in organic synthesis as a thiocyanating agent, in the manufacturing of dyes, as a corrosion inhibitor, and as a laboratory reagent.
What is the CAS number and formula for Sodium thiocyanate?
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The CAS number for Sodium thiocyanate is 540-72-7, and its linear formula is NaSCN.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Sodium thiocyanate with an assay of ≥98.0%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade unless explicitly stated in the specifications.
What are the safety and handling considerations for Sodium thiocyanate?
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Sodium thiocyanate is harmful if swallowed, in contact with skin, or if inhaled (H302, H312, H332), and harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects (H412). Contact with acids liberates very toxic gas, and appropriate personal protective equipment should be worn. Always consult the Safety Data Sheet before handling.
How is Sodium thiocyanate packed and shipped?
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Tech Serve Solutions exports Sodium thiocyanate globally, adhering to all necessary regulations for safe packaging and transportation of chemical substances.
How can I request a quote or sample?
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To request a quote or a sample of Sodium thiocyanate, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone.
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