Antimony sulfate, Sb2(SO4)3, is a hygroscopic salt formed by reacting antimony or its compounds with hot sulfuric acid. It is used in doping of semiconductors and in the production of explosives and fireworks.Herbst, Karl Albert et al. (1985) Antimony and antimony compounds in Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry 5th ed., vol. A3, p. 70. .
Structure Antimony(III) sulfate consists of interconnected SbO6 octahedra, which the corners are bonded to the sulfate ion.
Production Antimony(III) sulfate was first produced in 1827 by the reaction of antimony(III) oxide and 18 molar sulfuric acid at 200 °C:
The concentration of the sulfuric acid is important, as a lower concentration will produce basic antimony oxides, while a higher concentration will produce antimony(III) pyrosulfate. The reaction of elemental antimony and 18 M sulfuric acid will also produce antimony(III) sulfate:
Chemical properties Antimony sulfate is deliquescent, hydrolyzing in moist air and water, producing various basic antimony oxides and antimony(III) oxide. It is soluble in acids.
Uses Owing to its solubility, antimony sulfate has uses in the doping of semiconductors.Method of forming phase change layer, method of manufacturing a storage node using the same, and method of manufacturing phase change memory device using the same – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Freepatentsonline.com (2007-01-02). Retrieved on 2011-12-23. It is also used for coating anodes in electrolysis and in the production of explosives and fireworks.
Safety Antimony(III) sulfate causes irritation to the skin and mucous membranes.Antimony(III) Sulfate Material Safety Data Sheet . Prochemonline.
Natural occurrence Natural analogue of the exact compound is yet unknown. However, basic hydrated Sb sulfates are known as the minerals klebelsbergite and coquandite.
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