Stannous Sulphate is a white crystalline product that is a useful source of divalent, or stannous tin (Sn2+). The most widespread use is in the electroplating industry and plating baths are maintained under acidic conditions (to prevent precipitation of the tin) with tin contents of approximately 20 grams / litre.
The stannous (Sn2+) is an effective reducing agent. For example, hazardous hexavalent chromium (Cr6+) is converted to non-hazardous trivalent chromium (Cr3+) by reaction with stannous sulphate. This treatment is of particular importance in the cement / construction industry for the prevention of “chromate eczema”. Bulk cement treated with stannous sulphate has hexavalent chromium levels below the 2 ppm limit defined by European Directive and is also stable under normal storage conditions.
