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Sodium ferrocyanide

Sodium ferrocyanide
IUPAC name	tetrasodium [hexacyanoferrate(II)]
Other names	Yellow Prussiate of soda (YPS), Tetrasodium hexacyanoferrate, Gelbnatron, Ferrocyannatrium
Identifiers
CAS number	13601-19-9
EINECS number	237-081-9
Properties
Molecular formula	Na₄Fe(CN)₆
Molar mass	303.91
Appearance	yellow crystals
Density	1.458
Boiling point	435 °C
Solubility in water	soluble – 18g/100mL
Structure
Crystal structure	monoclinic
Related Compounds
Other anions	Sodium ferricyanide (Red Prussiate of soda)
Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa) Infobox disclaimer and references

Sodium ferrocyanide, also known as tetrasodium hexacyanoferrate or sodium hexacyanoferrate (II), is a coordination compound of formula Na₄Fe(CN)₆ which forms semi-transparent yellow crystals at room temperature, and which decomposes at its boiling point. It is soluble in water and insoluble in alcohol, and the solution can react with acid or photodecompose to release hydrogen cyanide gas.

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In its hydrous form, Na₄Fe(CN)₆•10H₂O (sodium ferrocyanide decahydrate), it is generally known as yellow prussiate of soda.

Uses

As yellow prussiate of soda, it is added to road and food grade salt as an anticaking agent. When combined with iron, it converts to a deep blue pigment which is the main component of Prussian blue. In photography it is used for bleaching, toning and fixing. It is used as a stabilizer for the coating on welding rods. In the petroleum industry it is used for removal of mercaptans.

Categories: Sodium compounds | Cyanides