Knowledge Hub
A reference library for an essential material.
Background reading, application notes and reference data for formulators, engineers, students and anyone who wants to understand sodium sulphate better.
Explainer
What is sodium sulphate?
A clear, non-specialist introduction to the material, its history and its forms.
ReadApplication note
Sodium sulphate in detergents
Functional role as filler, flow agent and dissolution aid in powder formulations.
ReadApplication note
Sodium sulphate in glass
Refining action, sodium source and contribution to defect-free, high-quality glass.
ReadReference
European quality & specifications
Typical purity ranges, supply mix and what 'European quality' means in practice.
ReadSector view
About SSPA & members
Who we are, the producers we represent and the activities of the association.
ReadFrequently asked
Common questions.
- Is sodium sulphate hazardous?
- No. Sodium sulphate is a non-hazardous, inert white salt that is stable under normal handling and storage conditions.
- Why is it used in laundry detergents?
- It works as a soluble filler, flow agent and anti-caking aid, helps surfactants dissolve, increases ionic strength and supports the biodegradation of the formulation.
- Is sodium chloride a comparable replacement?
- No, in detergent formulations, sodium sulphate offers a combination of solubility, ionic behaviour and chemical compatibility that is hard to replicate with simple substitutes. Performance, reliability and value are the criteria that matter.
- Where does European sodium sulphate come from?
- About 60% from natural deposits (primarily Spain and Turkey), 22% as a co-product of viscose fibre production, and the balance from other industrial processes.