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Sulfur

PubChem CID
5362487
Structure
Sulfur_small.png
Molecular Formula
Synonyms
  • sulfur
  • 7704-34-9
  • Sulfur, precipitated
  • Bensulfoid
  • Brimstone
Molecular Weight
32.07 g/mol
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Element Name
Dates
  • Create:
    2005-08-08
  • Modify:
    2025-01-18
Description
Sulfur has been reported in Artemia salina, Ceratophyllum demersum, and Lyngbya majuscula with data available.
sulfur is a mineral.
Sulphur is a mineral with formula of S. The IMA symbol is S.
See also: Resorcinol; Sulfur (component of); Salicylic acid; sulfur (component of); Sulfacetamide Sodium; Sulfur (component of) ... View More ...

1 Structures

1.1 2D Structure

Chemical Structure Depiction
Sulfur.png

2 Names and Identifiers

2.1 Computed Descriptors

2.1.1 IUPAC Name

sulfur
Computed by Lexichem TK 2.7.0 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)

2.1.2 InChI

InChI=1S/S
Computed by InChI 1.07.0 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)

2.1.3 InChIKey

NINIDFKCEFEMDL-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Computed by InChI 1.07.0 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)

2.1.4 SMILES

[S]
Computed by OEChem 2.3.0 (PubChem release 2024.12.12)

2.2 Molecular Formula

S
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)

2.3 Other Identifiers

2.3.1 CAS

7704-34-9
56996-94-2
9035-99-8

2.3.3 Deprecated CAS

1251749-91-3, 12673-82-4, 12684-31-0, 12767-24-7, 1819329-88-8, 56449-52-6, 56591-09-4, 56645-30-8, 57035-13-9, 63705-05-5, 7782-45-8, 8050-82-6, 81032-32-8, 97124-07-7
12684-31-0, 12767-24-7, 56449-52-6, 56591-09-4, 56645-30-8, 57035-13-9, 63705-05-5, 7782-45-8, 8050-82-6, 81032-32-8, 97124-07-7

2.3.4 European Community (EC) Number

2.3.5 UN Number

2.3.6 DSSTox Substance ID

2.3.7 ICSC Number

2.3.8 Wikidata

2.3.9 Wikipedia

2.4 Synonyms

2.4.1 MeSH Entry Terms

  • Sulfur
  • Sulfur 16
  • Sulfur-16

2.4.2 Depositor-Supplied Synonyms

3 Chemical and Physical Properties

3.1 Computed Properties

Property Name
Molecular Weight
Property Value
32.07 g/mol
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
XLogP3-AA
Property Value
0.5
Reference
Computed by XLogP3 3.0 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Rotatable Bond Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Exact Mass
Property Value
31.97207117 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Monoisotopic Mass
Property Value
31.97207117 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Topological Polar Surface Area
Property Value
1 Ų
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Heavy Atom Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Formal Charge
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Complexity
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Isotope Atom Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Compound Is Canonicalized
Property Value
Yes
Reference
Computed by PubChem (release 2021.10.14)

3.2 Experimental Properties

3.2.1 Physical Description

Dry Powder
Dry Powder; Water or Solvent Wet Solid; Pellets or Large Crystals, Water or Solvent Wet Solid; Liquid; Dry Powder, Other Solid; Other Solid; Dry Powder, Pellets or Large Crystals; Pellets or Large Crystals, Liquid; Pellets or Large Crystals
Pale yellow crystals or powder with faint odor of rotten eggs; [CAMEO]
YELLOW SOLID IN VARIOUS FORMS.

3.2.2 Color / Form

Pure sulfur exists in two stable crystalline forms, alpha and beta, and at least two amorphous (liquid) forms. Alpha-sulfur: rhombic, octahedral, yellow crystals; beta-sulfur: monoclinic, prismatic, pale-yellow crystals
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 1191
Yellow orthorhombic crystals /Sulfur (rhombic) (alpha)/
Lide, D.R. CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics 88TH Edition 2007-2008. CRC Press, Taylor & Francis, Boca Raton, FL 2007, p. 4-92
Yellow monoclinic needles, stable 95.3-120 °C /Sulfur (monoclinic) (beta)/
Lide, D.R. CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics 88TH Edition 2007-2008. CRC Press, Taylor & Francis, Boca Raton, FL 2007, p. 4-92
Yellow solid or amber-colored molten liquid.
Ashford, R.D. Ashford's Dictionary of Industrial Chemicals. London, England: Wavelength Publications Ltd., 1994., p. 853

3.2.3 Odor

Pure sulfur is odorless, but traces of hydrocarbon impurity may impart an oily and/or rotten egg odor
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.

3.2.4 Taste

Faint taste
Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996., p. 1535
Tasteless
Seiler, H.G., H. Sigel and A. Sigel (eds.). Handbook on the Toxicity of Inorganic Compounds. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1988., p. 649

3.2.5 Boiling Point

444.61 °C
Lide, D.R. CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics 88TH Edition 2007-2008. CRC Press, Taylor & Francis, Boca Raton, FL 2007, p. 4-92
445 °C

3.2.6 Melting Point

95.3 °C /(Sulfur rhombic transforms to monoclinic)/; 115.21 °C /Sulfur (monoclinic)/
Lide, D.R. CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics 88TH Edition 2007-2008. CRC Press, Taylor & Francis, Boca Raton, FL 2007, p. 4-92
Ignites in air above 261 °C, in oxygen below 260 °C, burning to the dioxide; combines readily with hydrogen; combines in the cold with fluorine, chlorine, and bromine; combines with carbon at high temperatures; reacts with silicon, phosphorus, arsenic, antimony and bismuth at their melting points; combines with nearly all metals; with lithium, sodium, potassium, copper, mercury and silver in the cold on contact with the solid; with magnesium, zinc and cadmium very slightly in the cold, more readily on heating; with other metals at high temperatures. Does not react with iodine, nitrogen, tellurium, gold, platinum and iridium.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1539
MP: 106.8 °C /gamma-Sulfur/
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1539
120 °C (amorphous)

3.2.7 Flash Point

405 °F (207 °C) (Closed cup)
National Fire Protection Association; Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 14TH Edition, Quincy, MA 2010, p. 325-104
160 °C c.c.

3.2.8 Solubility

For more Solubility (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.
Insoluble in water; slightly soluble in ethanol, benzene, ethyl ether; soluble in carbon disulfide /Sulfur (rhombic)/
Lide, D.R. CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics 88TH Edition 2007-2008. CRC Press, Taylor & Francis, Boca Raton, FL 2007, p. 4-92
Insoluble in water; slightly soluble in ethanol, benzene, ethyl ether; soluble in carbon disulfide /Sulfur (monoclinic)/
Lide, D.R. CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics 88TH Edition 2007-2008. CRC Press, Taylor & Francis, Boca Raton, FL 2007, p. 4-92
Insoluble in water. Sparingly soluble in alcohol, in ether; soluble in carbon disulfide (one gram/2 mL), in toluene
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1539
Liquid ammonia (anhydrous) dissolves 38.5% sulfur at -78 °C; acetone dissolves 2.65% at 25 °C; methylene iodide dissolves 9.1% at 10 °C; chloroform dissolves about 1.5% at 18 °C
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1539
Soluble in carbon disulfide, benzene, warm aniline and carbon tetrachloride, and liquid ammonia.
Environment Canada; Tech Info for Problem Spills: Sulphur (Draft) p.5 (1981)
Solubility in water: none

3.2.9 Density

2.07 g/cu cm (Sulfur (rhombic)/; 2.00 (Sulfur (monoclinic)/
Lide, D.R. CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics 88TH Edition 2007-2008. CRC Press, Taylor & Francis, Boca Raton, FL 2007, p. 4-92
Amber-colored crystals. The stable at ordinary temperature, density: 2.06; when heated to 94.5 °C becomes opaque owing to formation of monoclinic sulfur /alpha-Sulfur/
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1539
Opaque, light- yellow, brittle, needle-like crystals; stable between 94.5 oto 120 °C. Passes slowly into the rhombic form on standing; density 1.96; mp 115.21 °C /beta-Sulfur/
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1539
2.1 g/cm³

3.2.10 Vapor Density

Density of vapor/density of air, 470 °C: 7.837
Nehb W, Vydra K; Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 7th ed. (1999-2011). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons; Sulfur. Online Posting Date: 15 Dec 2006

3.2.11 Vapor Pressure

3.95X10-6 mm Hg at 30.4 °C
Ashford, R.D. Ashford's Dictionary of Industrial Chemicals. London, England: Wavelength Publications Ltd., 1994., p. 934

3.2.12 Stability / Shelf Life

Preparations containing sulfur may react with metals including silver and copper, resulting in discoloration of the metal.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2011; Drug Information 2011. Bethesda, MD. 2011

3.2.13 Autoignition Temperature

450 °F (232 °C)
National Fire Protection Association; Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 14TH Edition, Quincy, MA 2010, p. 325-104
232 °C

3.2.14 Viscosity

Dynamic viscosity of liquid (Pa.s): 0.17 at 120 °C; 0.008 at 140 °C; 0.0064 at 158 °C; 5.952 at 160 °C; 86.304 at 180 °C; 93.0 at 187.8 °C; 78.864 at 200 °C; 3.72 at 300 °C
Nehb W, Vydra K; Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 7th ed. (1999-2011). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons; Sulfur. Online Posting Date: 15 Dec 2006

3.2.15 Corrosivity

Sulfur is not considered corrosive to the usual construction materials. However, acid-generating impurities, which may be introduced in handling and storage, create corrosive conditions.
Staff; Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. (1999-2011). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons; Sulfur. Online Posting Date: 14 Jul 2006

3.2.16 Heat of Combustion

-4.741 BTU/lb = -2,634 cal/g = -110.3x10+5 J/kg
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.

3.2.17 Heat of Vaporization

120 BTU/lb = 69 cal/g = 2.9x10+5 J/kg
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.

3.2.18 Surface Tension

58.1 mN/m at 125 °C; 52.3 mN/m at 200 °C; 47.0 mN/m at 300 °C; 41.1 mN/m at 400 °C
Nehb W, Vydra K; Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 7th ed. (1999-2011). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons; Sulfur. Online Posting Date: 15 Dec 2006

3.2.19 Refractive Index

Index of refraction: 1.947 /alpha/; 2.038 /beta/
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 1191

3.2.20 Other Experimental Properties

Atomic Number 16; Valences 2, 4, 6
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1539
Mol wt approx 200,000; insoluble in solvents used for orthorhombic form; amorphous form; metastable, gradually reverts to alpha-form /Polymeric sulfur/
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1539
Sublimed and washed sulfur are in form of fine, yellow crystalline powder /Sulfur, pharmaceutical/
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1540
Heat of Fusion: rhombic (alpha): 62.25 J/g at 112.6 °C; monoclinic (beta): 43.54 J/g at 119.0 °C
Nehb W, Vydra K; Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 7th ed. (1999-2011). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons; Sulfur. Online Posting Date: 15 Dec 2006
Occurs in ... various molecular aggregations /allotropes/ which differ in solubility, specific gravity, crystalline form, etc. ... Sulfur also exhibits dynamic allotropy, ie, the various allotropes exist together in equilibrium in definite proportions, depending on the temperature and pressure. Sulfur crystalizes in at least two distinct systems: the rhombic and monoclinic forms. Rhombic sulfur is stable at atmospheric pressures up to 95.5 °C ... Monoclinic sulfur is then stable up to its natural melting point of 114.5 °C
Staff; Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. (1999-2011). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons; Sulfur. Online Posting Date: 14 Jul 2006
When the liquid phase consists solely of octatomic sulfur rings, the temperature ranges at which the various modifications form are called the ideal freezing points. The temperature at which the crystalline forms are in equilibrium with liquid sulfur containing equilibrium amounts of S(pie) and S(mu) are called natural freezing points
Staff; Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. (1999-2011). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons; Sulfur. Online Posting Date: 14 Jul 2006
For more Other Experimental Properties (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

3.3 SpringerMaterials Properties

3.4 Chemical Classes

Other Classes -> Elements, Nonmetallic

3.4.1 Drugs

3.4.1.1 Human Drugs
Human drug -> Active ingredient (SULFUR)
Human drug -> Discontinued
Dermatological medicines > Scabicides and pediculicides

3.4.2 Cosmetics

Antistatic; Antimicrobial; Antiseborrhoeic; Antidandruff
S13 | EUCOSMETICS | Combined Inventory of Ingredients Employed in Cosmetic Products (2000) and Revised Inventory (2006) | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2624118

3.4.3 Pesticides

Agrochemicals -> Pesticide active substances
Active substance -> EU Pesticides database: Approved

5 Chemical Vendors

6 Drug and Medication Information

6.1 WHO Essential Medicines

Drug
Drug Classes
Dermatological medicines > Scabicides and pediculicides
Formulation
Local - Topical - Ointment:
Indication
(1) Pthiriasis; (2) Pediculosis corporis; (3) Pediculosis capitis; (4) Scabies

6.2 FDA Approved Drugs

6.3 FDA Orange Book

6.4 FDA National Drug Code Directory

6.5 Drug Labels

Drug and label
Active ingredient and drug
Homeopathic product and label
Drug and label
Homeopathic product and label

6.6 Clinical Trials

6.6.1 ClinicalTrials.gov

6.7 Therapeutic Uses

Sulfur is a keratolytic agent and scabicide.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2011; Drug Information 2011. Bethesda, MD. 2011
Topical sulfur preparations are used principally for the symptomatic treatment of acne vulgaris. Although the drug may relieve plugging and rupturing of follicles, ease the evacuation of comedones, and promote peeling of the skin, some clinicians believe that topical sulfur may also promote the formation of new comedones.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2011; Drug Information 2011. Bethesda, MD. 2011
Topical 5-10% sulfur ointment (in a petrolatum base; no longer commercially available in the US) has been used for the treatment of scabies. Because sulfur ointment is messy, malodorous, tends to stain, and can produce an irritant dermatitis, its use has largely been supplanted by permethrin, lindane, or other scabicides for most patients.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2011; Drug Information 2011. Bethesda, MD. 2011
For relief of itching and scalp flaking associated with dandruff, 2-5% "sulfur" alone or, most often, in combination with salicylic acid, usually is used as a lotion shampoo. The lotion should be applied to wet hair and massaged vigorously into the scalp; the scalp then is rinsed thoroughly and application of the lotion and rinsing is repeated. The lotion usually is used as a shampoo twice weekly.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2011; Drug Information 2011. Bethesda, MD. 2011
MEDICATION (VET): Pragmatar ointment (Tar-sulfur-salicyclic acid) ... /is used/ in the treatment and control of non-specific dermatoses, subacute and chronic eczema, itching lesions of chronic atopic dermatitis and pruritus, and to relieve itching of ringworm and fungus infections of dogs and cats.
Aronson, C.E. (ed.). Veterinary Pharmaceuticals and Biologicals, 1982-1983. Edwardsville, Kansas: Veterinary Medicine Publishing Co., 1983., p. 16/156

6.8 Drug Warnings

Topical preparations containing sulfur are intended for external use only. Topical sulfur-containing preparations should not be used near the eyes; ... If topical sulfur-containing preparations are used for self-medication and the condition worsens or persists after regular use as directed, a physician should be consulted. If excessive skin irritation develops or increases during self-medication with a topical sulfur-containing preparation, the drug should be discontinued and a physician or pharmacist consulted. Combination topical preparations containing sulfur and resorcinol should not be used for self-medication of large areas of the body or of areas with broken skin. When used for self-medication of acne, topical "sulfur"-containing preparations generally should not be used concurrently with other topical acne medications unless otherwise directed by a physician.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2011; Drug Information 2011. Bethesda, MD. 2011
Topical preparations containing sulfur should not be used in children younger than 2 years of age except under the direction and supervision of a physician.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2011; Drug Information 2011. Bethesda, MD. 2011
Local irritation of the skin, eyes, or resp tract may occur and, therefore, contact with eyes should be avoided. ... Repeated applications may cause dermatitis, sometimes severe (eg, dermatitis venenata). In concn greater than 15%, sulfur is very irritating to the skin. Sulfur ointment stains clothing, bedding, and metal, incl jewelry. ... Headache, vomiting, muscle cramps, dizziness, collapse ... has reportedly occurred following topical application of sulfur powder or sulfur ointment to pt with eczema. ... Topical application of a 10% sulfur ointment for 3 days on infants with scabies reportedly caused systemic toxicity and several deaths.
American Hospital Formulary Service-Drug Information 88. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Hospital Pharmacists, 1988 (Plus supplements)., p. 2047

6.9 Maximum Drug Dose

The lethal oral dose in humans is estimated to be between 0.5 and 5 mg/kg body weight.
Ellenhorn, M.J., S. Schonwald, G. Ordog, J. Wasserberger. Ellenhorn's Medical Toxicology: Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Poisoning. 2nd ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams and Wilkins, 1997., p. 1826

7 Food Additives and Ingredients

7.1 Associated Foods

8 Agrochemical Information

8.1 Agrochemical Category

Fungicide
Pesticide active substances

8.2 EU Pesticides Data

Active Substance
sulphur
Status
Approved [Reg. (EC) No 1107/2009]
Date
Approval: 01/01/2010 Expiration: 15/04/2025
Legislation
2009/70, Reg. (EU) 2020/1511, Reg. (EU) 2021/1449, Reg. (EU) 2022/1480, Reg. (EU) 2023/2592, Reg. (EU) No 540/2011

9 Minerals

1 of 7
Name
2 of 7
Name
3 of 7
Formula
S8
System
Orthorhombic
4 of 7
Name
sulphur
Link
6 of 7
Formula
S
IMA Symbol
S
PDF Link
7 of 7
Mineral Description
Through its major derivative, sulfuric acid, sulfur ranks as one of the more-important elements used as an industrial raw material. It is of prime importance to every sector of the world's industrial and fertilizer complexes. Sulfuric acid production is the major end use for sulfur, and consumption of sulfuric acid has been regarded as one of the best indexes of a nation's industrial development. More sulfuric acid is produced in the United States every year than any other chemical.
USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries (PDF links)
USGS Mineral Yearbook (PDF links)
2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019|

10 Pharmacology and Biochemistry

10.1 ATC Code

D - Dermatologicals

D10 - Anti-acne preparations

D10A - Anti-acne preparations for topical use

D10AB - Preparations containing sulfur

D10AB02 - Sulfur

10.2 Bionecessity

A deficiency of sulfur inhibits protein synthesis and induces general unthriftiness /in animals/.
Nat'l Research Council Canada; Sulfur and its Inorganic Derivatives in the Canadian Environ. p.73 (1977) NRCC No. 15015

10.3 Absorption, Distribution and Excretion

The absorption, distribution, and elimination of "sulfur" following topical application have not been fully characterized. Topically applied "sulfur" reportedly penetrates the skin and is detectable in the epidermis within 2 hours after application and throughout the skin within about 8 hours; the drug is not detectable in skin 24 hours after application. Percutaneous absorption of the drug into systemic circulation reportedly occurred following topical application of a 25% "sulfur" ointment to abraded skin of animals but did not occur when the drug was applied to intact skin.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2011; Drug Information 2011. Bethesda, MD. 2011
Following dermal application of radioactive sulfur to the backs of 4 subjects for 8 hours, radioactivity was detectable in the urine after 2 hours and reached a peak after 6 hours. After 20 hours, 0.52% had been eliminated via the urine. 1.0% of the dose was absorbed through the skin.
European Commission, ESIS; IUCLID Dataset, Sulfur (7704-34-9) p.83(2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from as of July 29, 2011 https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
/After chronic exposure to sulfur dust/ levels of blood sulfur may be higher than normal; there is increased urinary excretion of sulfates and /a/ rise in ratio of total to organic sulfur.
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 2121
Rumen flora in ruminants permit ready incorporation of elemental sulfur ... into amino acids. Monogastric animals cannot so utilize sulfur. ... Absorbed sulfur is rapidly found in skin.
Rossoff, I.S. Handbook of Veterinary Drugs. New York: Springer Publishing Company, 1974., p. 580

10.4 Biological Half-Life

Two human subjects were accidentally exposed to radioactive sulfur via face, upper body and nose. ... 91% was eliminated ... half-life of 0.27 days, and 9% was eliminated ... half- life of 5.4 days.
European Commission, ESIS; IUCLID Dataset, Sulfur (7704-34-9) p.83(2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from as of July 29, 2011 https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/

10.5 Mechanism of Action

Topically applied sulfur has mild antifungal and antibacterial activity. It has been suggested that when applied topically to the skin, sulfur forms hydrogen sulfide and/or polythionic acid, which may exert germicidal activity. In vitro studies indicate that sulfur has little if any fungistatic or fungicidal activity. Therefore, sulfur's antifungal activity probably results largely from its keratolytic action, causing shedding of fungal spores and hyphae embedded within the stratum corneum. In vitro, sulfur has been shown to have some antibacterial activity; the drug has a potent inhibitory effect against some streptococci, a moderate inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus aureus, and no activity against gram-negative bacteria. It has been suggested that the drug's antibacterial activity may partly result from inactivation of sulfhydryl groups contained in bacterial enzyme systems, since the antibacterial effect of the drug has reportedly been neutralized by addition of cysteine and other sulfhydryl-containing compounds to the culture medium. Topically applied sulfur is reportedly toxic to the parasitic arthropod Sarcoptes scabiei.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2011; Drug Information 2011. Bethesda, MD. 2011
The exact mechanism(s) of action of "sulfur" in the treatment of acne is not fully understood but is presumed to involve the drug's keratolytic and antibacterial effects. Although some studies indicate that "sulfur" may also be comedogenic, other studies have been unable to substantiate this effect and the drug generally is considered effective in the topical treatment of acne.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2011; Drug Information 2011. Bethesda, MD. 2011
The aim of this research was to analyze the effects and the modes of action of elemental sulfur (S(0)) in bioluminescence and respiration of Vibrio fischeri cells and the enzymes crude luciferase, pure catalase, and alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH). Metallic copper removed sulfur and reduced the toxicity of acetone extracts of sediment samples analyzed in the bioluminescence test. The sulfur inhibition of cell bioluminescence was noncompetitive with decanal, the luciferase substrate; reversible, with maximum toxicity after 15 min (EC50 = 11.8 ug/L); and almost totally recovered after 2 hr. In vitro preincubation of crude luciferase extract with sulfur (0.28 ppm) weakly inhibited bioluminescence at 5 min, but at 30 min the inhibition reached 60%. Increasing the concentration of sulfur in the parts per million concentration range in vitro decreased bioluminescence, which was not constant, but depended on exposure time, and no dead-end/total inhibition was observed. The redox state of enzymes in the in vitro system significantly affected inhibition. Hydrogen peroxide restored fully and the reducing agent dithiothreitol, itself toxic, restored only partially luciferase activity in the presence of sulfur. Sulfur (5.5 ppm) slightly inhibited ADH and catalase, and dithiothreitol enhanced sulfur inhibition. High sulfur concentrations (2.2 ppm) inhibited the bioluminescence and enhanced the respiration rate of V. fischeri cells. Elemental sulfur data were interpreted to show that sulfur acted on at least a few V. fischeri cell sites: reversibly modifying luciferase at sites sensitive to/protected by oxidative and reducing agents and by affecting electron transport processes, resulting in enhanced oxygen consumption. Sulfur together with an enzyme reducing agent inhibited the oxidoreductive enzymes ADH and catalase, which have /thiol/ groups, metal ion cofactors, or heme, respectively, in their active centers.
Cetkauskaite A et al; Environ Toxicol 19 (4): 372-86 (2004)
Sulfur must be converted to pentathionic acid (H2S5O6) in order to exert germicidal action. Presumably oxidation of sulfur to pentathionic acid is accomplished by certain microorganisms or by epidermal cells when element is applied to skin. Sulfur possesses a keratolytic property, which may be the basis for the therapeutic action of the element in certain cutaneous disorders unassociated with infection.
Gilman, A.G., L.S.Goodman, and A. Gilman. (eds.). Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics. 7th ed. New York: Macmillan Publishing Co., Inc., 1985., p. 972

11 Use and Manufacturing

11.1 Uses

Sources/Uses
Used in the production of many chemicals and products including sulfuric acid, sulfites, insecticides, plastics, vulcanized rubber, dyes, gunpowder, and matches; Also used to bleach wood pulp, straw, wool, silk, felt, and linen; [Merck Index] Has been used topically in the treatment of ringworm, scabies, pediculosis, and acne, psoriasis, and seborrhea; [HSDB] Used as a fungicide and acaracide; [EXTOXNET]
Merck Index - O'Neil MJ, Heckelman PE, Dobbelaar PH, Roman KJ (eds). The Merck Index, An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals, 15th Ed. Cambridge, UK: The Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013.
Industrial Processes with risk of exposure
For sulfur (USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 077501) ACTIVE products with label matches. /SRP: Registered for use in the U.S. but approved pesticide uses may change periodically and so federal, state and local authorities must be consulted for currently approved uses./
National Pesticide Information Retrieval System's USEPA/OPP Chemical Ingredients Database on Sulfur (7704-34-9). Available from, as of July 19, 2011: https://npirspublic.ceris.purdue.edu/ppis/
Fungicide, insecticide
Mester, R.T.,Sine, C. (eds.) Crop Protection Handbook Volume 97. Meisterpro. Willoughby,OH. 2011, p. 635
In manufacturing sulfuric acid, carbon disulfide, sulfites, plastics, enamels, metal-glass cements; in making gunpowder, matches; for bleaching wood pulp, straw, wool, silk, felt, linen.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1539
In making phosphatic fertilizers; fumigant; bleaching of dried fruits; element is good electrical insulator
Lide, D.R. CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics 88TH Edition 2007-2008. CRC Press, Taylor & Francis, Boca Raton, FL 2007, p. 4-34
For more Uses (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (15 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.1.1 Use Classification

Human Drugs -> FDA Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations (Orange Book) -> Active Ingredients
Hazard Classes and Categories ->
Cosmetics -> Antistatic; Antimicrobial; Antiseborrhoeic; Antidandruff
S13 | EUCOSMETICS | Combined Inventory of Ingredients Employed in Cosmetic Products (2000) and Revised Inventory (2006) | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2624118

11.1.2 Industry Uses

Other (specify)
  • pH regulating agent
  • Odor agents
  • Processing aids, not otherwise listed
  • Chemical reaction regulator
  • Agricultural chemicals (non-pesticidal)
  • Binder
  • Processing aids, specific to petroleum production
  • Processing aids not otherwise specified
  • Leaching agent
  • Soil amendments (fertilizers)
  • Other
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
  • Fuel
  • Intermediate
  • Functional fluids (closed systems)
  • Dispersing agent
  • Fuels and fuel additives
  • Alloys
  • Intermediates
  • Bleaching agents
  • Polymerization promoter
  • Other (specify)
  • Adhesion/cohesion promoter
  • Lubricants and lubricant additives

11.1.3 Consumer Uses

Other (specify)
  • Agricultural chemicals (non-pesticidal)
  • Processing aids, not otherwise listed
  • pH regulating agent
  • Other
  • Soil amendments (fertilizers)
  • Binder
  • Processing aids, specific to petroleum production
  • Intermediates
  • Fuels and fuel additives
  • Intermediate
  • Functional fluids (closed systems)
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
  • Fuel
  • Other (specify)
  • Lubricants and lubricant additives

11.1.4 Household Products

Household & Commercial/Institutional Products

Information on 65 consumer products that contain Sulfur in the following categories is provided:

• Landscaping/Yard

• Personal Care

• Pesticides

• Pet Care

11.2 Methods of Manufacturing

A Claus sulfur recovery unit consists of a combustion furnace, waste heat boiler, sulfur condenser, and a series of catalytic stages each of which employs reheat, catalyst bed, and sulfur condenser. Typically, two or three catalytic stages are employed. The Claus process converts hydrogen sulfide to elemental sulfur via a two-step reaction. The first step involves controlled combustion of the feed gas to convert approximately one-third of the hydrogen sulfide to sulfur dioxide and noncatalytic reaction of unburned hydrogen sulfide with sulfur dioxide. In the second step, the Claus reaction, the hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide react over a catalyst to produce sulfur and water. ... The amount of combustion air is tightly controlled to maximize sulfur recovery, ie, maintaining the appropriate reaction stoichiometry of 2:1 hydrogen sulfide to sulfur dioxide throughout downstream reactors. Typically, sulfur recoveries of up to 97% can be achieved.
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 4th ed. Volumes 1: New York, NY. John Wiley and Sons, 1991-Present., p. V23: 440 (1997)
The /Frasch/ process ... consists of injecting large quantities of hot water directly into the deposit, and then pumping the molten sulfur to the surface.
Nehb W, Vydra K; Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry 7th ed. (1999-2011). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons; Sulfur. Online Posting Date: December 15, 2006
... Low-grade ores by Chemico process, smelter waste gas, sour natural gas, coal, iron, pyrites, gypsum, solvent extraction of volcanic ash, petroleum, coke oven gas, photolysis of hydrogen sulfide.
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 1191
Two forms of sulfur of 99.5% purity or better are recognized in pharmacy: sublimed sulfur, also known as flowers of sulfur, and precipitated sulfur, also known as milk of sulfur, made by boiling sublimed sulfur with lime and precipitating with hydrochloric acid. Other sulfur preparations include: washed sulfur, made by treating sublimed sulfur with ammonia and washing with water to dissolve impurities, particularly arsenic; sulfurated lime, the active component of Vleminckx's lotion, made by boiling sublimed sulfur with lime, resulting in formation of calcium pentasulfide and calcium thiosulfate; and sulfurated potash (K2(Sx)), also known as liver of sulfur, made by heating sublimed sulfur with potassium carbonate.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1540
Elemental sulfur /may be/ recovered via petroleum product desulfurization; plus sulfur and sulfuric acid, resulting from flue gas-purification.
CONSIDINE. CHEMICAL AND PROCESS TECHNOL ENCYC 1974 p.1064

11.3 Impurities

Molten sulfur has impurities of selenium, tellurium, arsenic, chlorine, & ash
CONSIDINE. CHEMICAL AND PROCESS TECHNOL ENCYC 1974 p.1065
Liquid sulfur /may contain/ hydrogen sulfide.
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 3rd ed., Volumes 1-26. New York, NY: John Wiley and Sons, 1978-1984., p. V22: 99 (1983)
... Pharmaceutical and other commercial sulfur often contains talcum, bentonite, or organic impurities ...
Seiler, H.G., H. Sigel and A. Sigel (eds.). Handbook on the Toxicity of Inorganic Compounds. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1988., p. 645
Crude sulfur contains small percentages of carbonaceous matter. The amount of impurity is usually determined by combustion.
Standard Article; Sulfur. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2011). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: July 14, 2006

11.4 Formulations / Preparations

Various forms of elemental sulfur, dry flowable, water dispersible granules, soluble concentrates, wettable powder
Mester, R.T.,Sine, C. (eds.) Crop Protection Handbook Volume 97. Meisterpro. Willoughby,OH. 2011, p. 635
Premix Partners: Bacillus thuringiensis spp. kurstaki; carbendazim; chlorothalonil; copper oxychloride; copper oxychloride sulfate; copper sulfate, basic; copper sulfate, tribasic; cyproconazole; naphthalene; penconazole; pheromone; pyridaben; tetraconazole; triadimenol; zineb.
Mester, R.T.,Sine, C. (eds.) Crop Protection Handbook Volume 97. Meisterpro. Willoughby,OH. 2011, p. 635
Colloidal sulfur: Topical: Powder: 33%, Bensulfoid (fused onto colloidal bentonite); Tablets, for compounding: 130 mg (33% of colloidal sulfur), Bensulfoid; Colloidal sulfur combinations: Topical: Lotion: 5% with Resocinol 2%, sulforcin (with alcohol 11.65%); 2% with Methyl Salicylate 5% and Zinc Oxide 6%, Bensulfoid (with alcohol 12%); Shampoo: 2% with Salicyclic Acid 2%, Sebasorb; 5% with Salicyclic Acid 2%, Meted Improved; 5% with Zinc Oxide 10% and Zinc Sulfate 1%, Acnederm (with isopropyl alcohol 21%)
American Hospital Formulary Service-Drug Information 88. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Hospital Pharmacists, 1988 (Plus supplements)., p. 2048
Precipitated sulfur: Powder: Topical: Cake: 3%, Buf Acne Cleansing Bar; 10%, Sulfur Soap; Gel: 4%, Xerac (with isopropyl alcohol 44%); Lotion: 5%, Liquimat (with alcohol 22%); Precipitated sulfur combinations: Topical: Cake: 2% with Salicyclic Acid 2%, Aveeno Cleansing Bar (with colloidal oatmeal); 10% with Salicyclic Acid 3%, Salicyclic Acid and Sulfur Soap; Cream: 8% with Resorcinol 2%, Acnomel (with alcohol 11%); Lotion: 3% with Salicyclic Acid 2%, Acno (with alcohol 25%); 4% with Salicyclic Acid 1.5%, Night Cast (with alcohol 33%); 5% with Resorcinol 2%, Rezamid (with alcohol 28.5%); 5% with Sulfacetamide Sodium 10%, Sulface-R (with parabens, propylene glycol, and zinc oxide); 8% with Resorcinol 2%, Night Cast Special Formula (with alcohol 31%); Shampoo: 2% with Coal Tar Soln 5% and Salicyclic Acid 1%, Vanseb-T (cream or lotion); 2% with Salicyclic 1%, Vanseb (cream or lotion); 5% with Sodium Salicyclate 0.5%, pHisoDan; Stick, 8% with Resorcinol 1%, Clearasil (with bentonite 4%)
American Hospital Formulary Service-Drug Information 88. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Hospital Pharmacists, 1988 (Plus supplements)., p. 2048
For more Formulations/Preparations (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (138 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.5 Consumption Patterns

More than 85% of the sulfur consumed in the world is either converted to sulfuric acid or produced directly as such. Worldwide, well over half of the sulfuric acid is used in the manufacture of phosphatic fertilizers and ammonium sulfate for fertilizers.
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 4th ed. Volumes 1: New York, NY. John Wiley and Sons, 1991-Present., p. V23 258
About 87% of sulfur was converted to sulfuric acid prior to end use. (1986)
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES 1987 p.156
End use: Agricultural chemicals, 66%; chemicals, organic & inorganic, 10%; petroleum refining, 8%; metal mining, 2%; and other, 14% (1986)
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES 1987 p.156
About 90% of the sulfur was converted to sulfuric acid prior to end use. (1991)
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES 1991 P.160
For more Consumption Patterns (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.6 U.S. Production

Aggregated Product Volume

2019: 18,700 lb

2018: 10,000 lb

2017: 84,600 lb

2016: 604,200 lb

Aggregated Product Volume

2019: 40,000,000,000 - <50,000,000,000 lb

2018: 30,000,000,000 - <40,000,000,000 lb

2017: 30,000,000,000 - <40,000,000,000 lb

2016: 30,000,000,000 - <40,000,000,000 lb

(1977) 9.54X10+12 G
SRI
(1979) 1.04X10+13 G
SRI
(1983) 4.96X10+6 metric tons /Sulfur, recovered elemental/
BUREAU OF THE CENSUS. CURRENT INDUSTRIAL REPORTS, INORGANIC CHEMICALS, 1987
(1984) 5.21X10+6 metric tons /Sulfur, recovered elemental/
BUREAU OF THE CENSUS. CURRENT INDUSTRIAL REPORTS, INORGANIC CHEMICALS, 1987
For more U.S. Production (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (19 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.7 U.S. Imports

(1977) 2.01X10+12 G
SRI
(1979) 2.49X10+12 G
SRI
(1984) 2.56X10+6 metric tons
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES 1989 P.158
(1985) 2.10X10+6 metric tons /Frasch & recovered/
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES 1989 P.158
For more U.S. Imports (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.8 U.S. Exports

(1977) 1.09X10+12 G
SRI
(1979) 1.96X10+12 G
SRI
(1984) 1.33X10+6 metric tons /Frasch & recovered/
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES 1989 P.158
(1985) 1.37X10+6 metric tons /Frasch & recovered/
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES 1989 P.158
For more U.S. Exports (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.9 General Manufacturing Information

Industry Processing Sectors
Rubber Product Manufacturing
Industry Processing Sectors
  • Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
  • All Other Basic Organic Chemical Manufacturing
  • All Other Basic Inorganic Chemical Manufacturing
  • Pesticide, Fertilizer, and Other Agricultural Chemical Manufacturing
  • Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
  • Other (requires additional information)
  • Petroleum Refineries
  • Food, beverage, and tobacco product manufacturing
  • Asphalt Paving, Roofing, and Coating Materials Manufacturing
  • Mining (except Oil and Gas) and support activities
  • Miscellaneous Manufacturing
  • Wholesale and Retail Trade
  • Industrial Gas Manufacturing
  • Textiles, apparel, and leather manufacturing
  • All Other Chemical Product and Preparation Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Primary Metal Manufacturing
  • Non-metallic Mineral Product Manufacturing (includes clay, glass, cement, concrete, lime, gypsum, and other non-metallic mineral product manufacturing)
  • Synthetic Rubber Manufacturing
  • Petrochemical Manufacturing
  • Soap, Cleaning Compound, and Toilet Preparation Manufacturing
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
  • Utilities
  • Paper Manufacturing
  • Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing
  • Rubber Product Manufacturing
EPA TSCA Commercial Activity Status
Sulfur: ACTIVE
EPA TSCA Commercial Activity Status
Sulfur, homopolymer: ACTIVE
EPA TSCA Regulatory Flag
XU - indicates a substance exempt from reporting under the Chemical Data Reporting Rule, (40 CFR 711).
The WHO Recommended Classification of Pesticides by Hazard identifies sulfur (technical grade) as Class III: slightly hazardous; Main Use: fungicide (other than for seed treatment), insecticide.
WHO International Programme on Chemical Safety; The WHO Recommended Classification of Pesticides by Hazard and Guidelines to Classification 2009 p.37 (2010)
The previous decade has seen a rapid shift in the mode of sulfur production with native sulfur recovery by the Frasch process being eliminated in the United States and in steep decline elsewhere. The increasing reliance on sour natural gas (CH4, H2S, and CO2) throughout the World and the production of low sulfur fuels in refineries has resulted in nearly all of the World's elemental sulfur coming from conversion of H2S.
Clark PD; Sulfur and Hydrogen Sulfide Recovery. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2011). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: April 14, 2006
Ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) is diesel fuel with 15 parts per million or lower sulfur content. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requires 80% of the highway diesel fuel refined in or imported into the United States (100% in California) to be ultra-low sulfur diesel. One hundred percent must be ULSD nationwide by 2010. Currently, the vast majority of ultra-low sulfur diesel is produced from petroleum. However, biodiesel (along with some emerging advanced fuels) is inherently ultra-low sulfur and could help meet ULSD requirements in the future. Ultra-low sulfur content in diesel fuel is beneficial because it enables use of advanced emission control technologies on light- and heavy-duty diesel vehicles. The combination of ULSD with advanced emission control technologies is sometimes called "clean diesel."
Dept. of Energy; Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy: Ultra -low Sulfur Diesel Fuel (May 31, 2011). Available from, as of August 2, 2011: https://www.eere.energy.gov/basics/vehicles/ultra_low_sulfer_diesel.html
... in massive elemental form sulfur is referred to as brimstone
Staff; Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. (1999-2011). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons; Sulfur. Online Posting Date: 14 Jul 2006
For more General Manufacturing Information (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12 Identification

12.1 Analytic Laboratory Methods

Method: EPA-ORD/EPA-OST IO-3.3; Procedure: X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy; Analyte: sulfur; Matrix: air; Detection Limit: 2.6 nanogram/sq centimeter.
National Environmental Methods Index; Analytical, Test and Sampling Methods. Sulfur (7704-34-9). Available from, as of July 20, 2011: https://www.nemi.gov
Elemental sulfur in either its ore or its refined state can generally be recognized by its characteristic yellow color or by the generation of sulfur dioxide when it is burned in air. Its presence in an elemental state or in a compound can be detected by heating the material with sodium carbonate and rubbing the fused product on a wet piece of silver metal. A black discoloration of the silver indicates the presence of sulfur.
Standard Article; Sulfur. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2011). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: July 14, 2006
AOAC Method 952.25. Sulfur; Titrimetric carius combustion method (12) Official final action (not applicable in presence of phosphorus). Place weighed sample /greater or equal to 0.75 mg sulfur/ in combustion tube, add /fine crystals of/ sodium chloride 100% in excess of amt equivalent to sulfur sample, and ... /add 0.5 + or - 0.03 mL fuming nitric acid. Using blast lamp & holding at 30-40 deg angle, slowly rotate tube in flame until wall thickens, pull out, and seal off. Immediately place tube in furnace and heat 5 hr at 250 or 300 + or - 10 °C. Remove vented tube from furnaces and cut off constricted end./ Transfer contents of tube to 50 mL beaker, rinsing tube 4-6 times with 3-5 mL portions water. Evaporate to dryness on steam bath. Dissolve residue in 10 mL water, pour solution into titration cell, add 1 drop phenolphthalein, and make just alkaline with about 0.1 N sodium hydroxide, then acid with about 0.02 N hydrochloric acid, adding 1 drop excess. Add about 0.15 g of /tetrahydroxyquinone sulfate/ indicator, stir to dissolve ... using enough alcohol so that final soln contains about 50%. Titrate with standard barium chloride soln from 5 mL buret until stable color of soln immediately after stirring matches standard glass color filter. ... % sulfur= (mL barium chloride - mL blank) X normality X 16.032 X 100 mg/mg sample /Total sulfur/.
Association of Official Analytical Chemists. Official Methods of Analysis. 15th ed. and Supplements. Washington, DC: Association of Analytical Chemists, 1990, p. 345
AOAC Method 955.48. Sulfur; Gravimetric carius combustion method (13) Official final action (Applicable in presence of phosphorus). /Place weighed sample (greater or equal to 0.75 mg sulfur) in combustion tube, add fine crystals of sodium chloride 100% in excess of amt equivalent to sulfur sample, and add 0.5 + or - 0.03 mL fuming nitric acid. Using blast lamp & holding at 30-40 deg angle, slowly rotate tube in flame until wall thickens, pull out, and seal off. Immediately place tube in furnace and heat 5 hr at 250 or 300 + or - 10 °C. Remove vented tube from furnaces and cut off constricted end. Transfer contents of tube to 50 mL beaker, rinsing tube 4-6 times with 3-5 mL portions water. Evaporate to dryness on steam bath./ Dissolve residue ... in 3 mL water, pour into previously ignited and weighed (with filter stick) porcelain crucible. Place crucible on steam bath until soln is near boiling point. ... Slowly draw off soln, and rinse precipitate ... Place crucible and filter in larger crucible and dry in oven for 10 min at about 110 °C. Ignite in furnace 10 min at 700-750 °C ... cool on metal block 30 min or in desiccator 1 hr, and weigh. Determine blank on reagents. % sulfur= (wt of barium sulfate - blank) x 0.1374 X 100/wt sample /Total sulfur/.
Association of Official Analytical Chemists. Official Methods of Analysis. 15th ed. and Supplements. Washington, DC: Association of Analytical Chemists, 1990, p. 345
For more Analytic Laboratory Methods (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (16 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13 Safety and Hazards

13.1 Hazards Identification

13.1.1 GHS Classification

1 of 6
View All
Note
This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 90.5% (38 of 42) of all reports. Pictograms displayed are for 9.5% (4 of 42) of reports that indicate hazard statements.
GHS Hazard Statements

Not Classified

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria by 38 of 42 companies (only 9.5% companies provided GHS information). For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

ECHA C&L Notifications Summary

Aggregated GHS information provided per 42 reports by companies from 2 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 38 of 42 reports by companies. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

There is 1 notification provided by 4 of 42 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown.

13.1.2 Hazard Classes and Categories

Not Classified
Skin Irrit. 2 (99.7%)

13.1.3 NFPA Hazard Classification

NFPA 704 Diamond
2-1-0
NFPA Health Rating
2 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause temporary incapacitation or residual injury.
NFPA Fire Rating
1 - Materials that must be preheated before ignition can occur. Materials require considerable preheating, under all ambient temperature conditions, before ignition and combustion can occur.
NFPA Instability Rating
0 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable, even under fire conditions.

13.1.4 Health Hazards

ERG 2024, Guide 133 (Sulfur)

· Fire may produce irritating and/or toxic gases.

· Contact may cause burns to skin and eyes.

· Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes.

· Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination.

13.1.5 Fire Hazards

ERG 2024, Guide 133 (Sulfur)

· Flammable/combustible material.

· May be ignited by friction, heat, sparks or flames.

· Some may burn rapidly with flare-burning effect.

· Powders, dusts, shavings, borings, turnings or cuttings may explode or burn with explosive violence.

· Substance may be transported in a molten form at a temperature that may be above its flash point.

· May re-ignite after fire is extinguished.

Combustible. Finely dispersed particles form explosive mixtures in air.

13.1.6 Hazards Summary

Burning can release toxic gases; Molten sulfur can cause severe burns; [CAMEO] Dust explosions can result when powder is mixed with air. [ICSC]
The major hazards encountered in the use and handling of sulfur stem from its toxicologic properties and flammability. Toxic by all routes (ie, inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact), exposure to this pale yellow, crystalline substance may occur from the extraction of sulfur-bearing rock, its use in fertilizer, the production of sulfuric acid and other sulfur compounds, in wood pulping, in the vulcanization of rubber, and in the manufacture of matches, explosives, and dyes. Effects from exposure may include ulceration of the skin, conjunctivitis, inflammation of the nasal mucosa, shortness-of-breath, asthma, and tracheobronchitis. In activities and situations where over-exposure may occur, wear chemical protective clothing and a self-contained breathing apparatus. If exposure should occur, immediately irrigate eyes with copious amounts of tepid water for at least 15 minutes and wash skin extremely thoroughly with soap and water. Contaminated clothing should be removed and left at the work site for cleaning before reuse. Sulfur is an easily ignitable solid. In a powdered form it may form explosive mixtures with air, or in contact with oxidizing materials. Sulfur burns with a blue flame that may be difficult to see in daylight, and produces toxic sulfur dioxide gas. For fires involving sulfur, extinguish with dry chemical, sand, water spray (straight streams may scatter the material), fog, or standard foam. If water is used, apply from as far a distance as possible. Sulfur should be stored in a cool, well ventilated area, away from sources of ignition, physical damage, chlorates, nitrates, and other oxidizing materials. Sulfur may be shipped domestically via air, rail, road, and water. International shipments may require the label, "Flammable solid." Small dry spills of sulfur may be carefully shovelled into a clean, dry, covered container for recovery or later disposal. Large spills may be wetted down with water and diked for later disposal. Do not allow material to enter water sources or sewers.

13.1.7 Fire Potential

Vapors given off during melting of sulfur may contain sufficient hydrogen sulfide & carbon disulfide to permit ignition of air/vapor mixture on contact with hot surface; such ignition may result in transmission of flames to molten sulfur. ... Sulfur is poor conductor of electricity & tends to develop charges of static electricity during transport or processing; static discharge may lead to ignition of sulfur dust. Fires in heaps of sulfur are frequent & insidious since they may break out again even after original conflagration has ... Been extinguished.
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 2121
Combustible liquid. Combustion by-products may include sulfur dioxide gas.
National Fire Protection Association; Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 14TH Edition, Quincy, MA 2010, p. 49-139
Ignites in air above 261 °C, in oxygen below 260 °C, burning to the dioxide ... .
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1539

13.1.8 Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Irritations

May cause irritation of skin, mucous membranes.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1539
... May cause irritation to ... eye & resp tract.
Gosselin, R.E., R.P. Smith, H.C. Hodge. Clinical Toxicology of Commercial Products. 5th ed. Baltimore: Williams and Wilkins, 1984., p. II-116
... If spilled on clothing and allowed to remain, may cause smarting and reddening of the skin.
Environment Canada; Tech Info for Problem Spills: Sulphur (Draft) p.1 (1977)

13.2 Safety and Hazard Properties

13.2.1 Flammable Limits

Lower flammable limit for sulfur dust in air is 35 mg/L ... .
Clayton, G.D., F.E. Clayton (eds.) Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. Volumes 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F: Toxicology. 4th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons Inc., 1993-1994., p. 806

13.2.2 Critical Temperature & Pressure

Critical temperature: 1040 °C; Critical pressure: 11,75 mPa; Critical volume: 2.48 mL/g
Staff; Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. (1999-2011). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons; Sulfur. Online Posting Date: 14 Jul 2006

13.2.3 Physical Dangers

Dust explosion possible if in powder or granular form, mixed with air. If dry, it can be charged electrostatically by swirling, pneumatic transport, pouring, etc.

13.2.4 Explosive Limits and Potential

Grinding of sulfur involves high degree of explosive hazard.
Farm Chemicals Handbook 1991. Willoughby, OH: Meister, 1991., p. C-287
Upper explosive limit: 1400 g/cu m, lower explosive limit: 35 g/cu m.
Environment Canada; Tech Info for Problem Spills: Sulfur (Draft) p.1 (1981)
...Explosion risk above 260 °F.
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 848
Explosive limits , vol% in air: 35-1400 g/m³

13.3 First Aid Measures

Inhalation First Aid
Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Refer for medical attention.
Skin First Aid
Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap.
Eye First Aid
First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.
Ingestion First Aid
Rinse mouth. Refer for medical attention .

13.3.1 First Aid

ERG 2024, Guide 133 (Sulfur)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingestedor inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuouscompressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

Specific First Aid:

· Removal of solidified molten material from skin requires medical assistance.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

13.4 Fire Fighting

Use water spray, foam, powder, dry sand. In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water.

13.4.1 Fire Fighting Procedures

Approach fire from upwind to avoid hazardous vapors and toxic decomposition products. Use fine spray or fog to control fire by preventing its spread and absorbing some of its heat. Water or foam may cause frothing of molten sulfur.
National Fire Protection Association; Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 14TH Edition, Quincy, MA 2010, p. 49-139
If material /is/ on fire or involved in /a/ fire, use water in flooding quantities as fog. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible.
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 848
In Case of Fire: Use appropriate extinguishing media for combustibles in the area. Wear full protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus. Evacuate nonessential personnel from the area to prevent human exposure to fire, smoke, fumes or products of combustion. Prevent use of contaminated buildings, area, and equipment until decontaminated. Water runoff can cause environmental damage. If water is used to fight fire, dike and collect runoff.
Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.; MSDS, Thiolux Jet (Revision Date: 7/21/2010). Available from, as of July 22, 2011: https://www.syngentacropprotection.com/pdf/msds/03_2556407212010.pdf

13.4.2 Firefighting Hazards

Burns with a pale blue flame that may be difficult to see in daylight.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.

13.5 Accidental Release Measures

Public Safety: ERG 2024, Guide 133 (Sulfur)

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

Spill or Leak: ERG 2024, Guide 133 (Sulfur)

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

Small Dry Spill

· With clean shovel, place material into clean, dry container and cover loosely; move containers from spill area.

Large Spill

· Wet down with water and dike for later disposal.

· Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.

13.5.1 Isolation and Evacuation

Evacuation: ERG 2024, Guide 133 (Sulfur)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area for at least 25 meters (75 feet) in all directions.

Large Spill

· Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 100 meters (330 feet).

Fire

· If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

13.5.2 Spillage Disposal

Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting.

13.5.3 Cleanup Methods

Environmental considerations: Water spill: Use natural barriers or oil spill control booms to limit spill travel. Use natural deep water pockets, excavated lagoons, or sand bag barriers to trap material at bottom. Remove trapped material with suction hoses.
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 848
Enviromental considerations: Land spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, holding area to contain liquid or solid material. Cover solids with a plastic sheet to prevent dissolving in rain or fire fighting water. Dike surface flow using soil, sand bags, foamed polyurethane, or foamed concrete.
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 848
Large spillages should be dammed-off and pumped into containers; soak up remainder with absorbent material and dispose of in accordance with local regulations.
Mester, R.T.,Sine, C. (eds.) Crop Protection Handbook Volume 97. Meisterpro. Willoughby,OH. 2011, p. 635
Stop or reduce discharge of material if this can be done without risk. Eliminate all sources of ignition. Avoid skin contact or inhalation. When spilled in a molten form, contain if possible by forming mechanical or chemical barriers and let it solidify. Shovel solid sulfur into containers with covers (avoid dusting) for recovery or disposal. When spilled in a molten form, contain if possible by using natural deep water pockets, and sand bag barriers to trap material at the bottom. Remove trapped material with suction hoses. If removal is not possible, let it solidify and apply a cover material, preferably inert and basic (limestone), to the spilled area until recovery procedures begin. This will reduce the possible release of sulfuric acid in the water.
Environment Canada; Tech Info for Problem Spills: Sulfur (Draft) p.54 (1981)
Do not contaminate water by cleaning of equipment and when disposing of equipment washwaters.
Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.; Product Label for Thiolux Jet dry Flowable Micronized Sulfur (2003). Available from, as of July 22, 2011: https://www.syngentacropprotection.com/pdf/labels/SCP1138AL2B1203.pdf

13.5.4 Disposal Methods

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.
Completely empty bag into application equipment. Then dispose of empty bag in a sanitary landfill or by incineration, or if allowed by state and local authorities, by burning. If burned, stay out of smoke.
Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.; Product Label for Thiolux Jet dry Flowable Micronized Sulfur (2003). Available from, as of July 22, 2011: https://www.syngentacropprotection.com/pdf/labels/SCP1138AL2B1203.pdf
Dump into a landfill site. Recommendable method: Landfill. Not recommendable method: Thermal destruction. Peer review: Caution: sulfur could be a fire hazard and may cause bacterial degradation, landfill is recommendable for small amt only. (Peer-review conclusions of an IRPTC expert consultation (May 1985))
United Nations. Treatment and Disposal Methods for Waste Chemicals (IRPTC File). Data Profile Series No. 5. Geneva, Switzerland: United Nations Environmental Programme, Dec. 1985., p. 286

13.5.5 Preventive Measures

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses by industrial workers is inconsistent. The benefits or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.
Use this product only in accordance with its labeling and with the Worker Protection Standard, 40 CFR Part 170.
Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.; Product Label for Thiolux Jet dry Flowable Micronized Sulfur (2003). Available from, as of July 22, 2011: https://www.syngentacropprotection.com/pdf/labels/SCP1138AL2B1203.pdf
Do not apply this product in a way that will contact workers or other persons, either directly or through drift. Only protected handlers may be in the area during application.
Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.; Product Label for Thiolux Jet dry Flowable Micronized Sulfur (2003). Available from, as of July 22, 2011: https://www.syngentacropprotection.com/pdf/labels/SCP1138AL2B1203.pdf
For terrestrial uses, do not apply directly to water, or to areas where surface water is present, or to intertidal areas below the mean high water mark. Do not apply when weather conditions favor drift from treated areas.
Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.; Product Label for Thiolux Jet dry Flowable Micronized Sulfur (2003). Available from, as of July 22, 2011: https://www.syngentacropprotection.com/pdf/labels/SCP1138AL2B1203.pdf
For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.6 Handling and Storage

13.6.1 Safe Storage

Fireproof. Separated from strong oxidants.

13.6.2 Storage Conditions

Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Separate from chlorates, nitrates, other oxidizing materials, and hydrocarbons.
National Fire Protection Association; Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 14TH Edition, Quincy, MA 2010, p. 49-139
Store away from sparks, fire, flames. Isolate from oxidizing materials.
Mester, R.T.,Sine, C. (eds.) Crop Protection Handbook Volume 97. Meisterpro. Willoughby,OH. 2011, p. 635
Store the material in a well-ventilated, secure area out of reach of children and domestic animals. Do not store food, beverages or tobacco products in the storage area. Prevent eating, drinking, tobacco use, and cosmetic application in areas where there is a potential for exposure to the material. Wash thoroughly with soap and water after handling.
Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.; MSDS, Thiolux Jet (Revision Date: 7/21/2010). Available from, as of July 22, 2011: https://www.syngentacropprotection.com/pdf/msds/03_2556407212010.pdf
Sulfur dust suspended in air ignites easily. Keep away from heat, sparks, and flame.
Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.; Product Label for Thiolux Jet dry Flowable Micronized Sulfur (2003). Available from, as of July 22, 2011: https://www.syngentacropprotection.com/pdf/labels/SCP1138AL2B1203.pdf

13.7 Exposure Control and Personal Protection

Protective Clothing: ERG 2024, Guide 133 (Sulfur)

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

13.7.1 Emergency Response Planning Guidelines

Emergency Response: ERG 2024, Guide 133 (Sulfur)

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2, sand, earth, water spray or regular foam.

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or regular foam.

· If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

Fire Involving Metal Pigments or Pastes (e.g. "Aluminum Paste")

· Aluminum Paste fires should be treated as a combustible metal fire. Use DRY sand, graphite powder, dry sodium chloride-based extinguishers or class D extinguishers. Also, see GUIDE 170.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

· Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

· For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn.

· Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.

· ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames.

13.7.2 Inhalation Risk

Evaporation at 20 °C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly when dispersed.

13.7.3 Effects of Short Term Exposure

The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Inhalation of the powder may cause inflammation of the nose and respiratory tract.

13.7.4 Effects of Long Term Exposure

Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The substance may have effects on the respiratory tract. This may result in chronic bronchitis.

13.7.5 Allowable Tolerances

Residues of sulfur are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to animals. Use: stabilizer. Limit: None.
40 CFR 180.930 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 18, 2011: https://www.ecfr.gov

13.7.6 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment: Applicators and other handlers must wear: Long-sleeved shirt and long pants; Chemical resistant gloves made of waterproof material; Shoes plus socks; Protective eyewear.
Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.; Product Label for Thiolux Jet dry Flowable Micronized Sulfur (2003). Available from, as of July 22, 2011: https://www.syngentacropprotection.com/pdf/labels/SCP1138AL2B1203.pdf
... Restricted-entry interval (REI) of 24 hours. PPE required for early entry to treated areas that is permitted under the Worker Protection Standard and that involves contact with anything that has been treated, such as plants, soil, or water is: Coveralls over long-sleeved shirt and long pants; Chemical resistant gloves made of waterproof material; Socks and chemical resistant footwear.
Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.; Product Label for Thiolux Jet dry Flowable Micronized Sulfur (2003). Available from, as of July 22, 2011: https://www.syngentacropprotection.com/pdf/labels/SCP1138AL2B1203.pdf
Personnel protection: If contact with the material anticipated, wear appropriate chemical protective clothing. Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus when fighting fires involving this material.
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 848
Where eye contact is likely, use dust-proof chemical goggles.
Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.; MSDS, Thiolux Jet (Revision Date: 7/21/2010). Available from, as of July 22, 2011: https://www.syngentacropprotection.com/pdf/msds/03_2556407212010.pdf
Where contact is likely, wear chemical-resistant gloves (such as barrier laminate, butyl rubber, nitrile rubber, neoprene rubber, natural rubber, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride [PVC] or Viton), coveralls, socks and chemical-resistant footwear.
Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.; MSDS, Thiolux Jet (Revision Date: 7/21/2010). Available from, as of July 22, 2011: https://www.syngentacropprotection.com/pdf/msds/03_2556407212010.pdf

13.7.7 Preventions

Fire Prevention
NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking. Closed system, dust explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting. Prevent deposition of dust. Prevent build-up of electrostatic charges (e.g., by grounding).
Exposure Prevention
PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST!
Inhalation Prevention
Use local exhaust or breathing protection.
Skin Prevention
Protective gloves.
Eye Prevention
Wear safety goggles.
Ingestion Prevention
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

13.8 Stability and Reactivity

13.8.1 Reactivity Alerts

13.8.1.1 CSL Reaction Information
CSL No
Reactants/Reagents
Sulfur + Iron
Warning Message
Reaction resulted in a fire
Reaction Scale
Not Available
Reference Source
User Reported
Modified Date
04/21/2022
Create Date
04/21/2022

13.8.2 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities

Reacts with oxidizing materials.
National Fire Protection Association; Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 14TH Edition, Quincy, MA 2010, p. 49-139
The reaction of ammonia with specially prepared sulfur may form explosive sulfur nitride. Ammonium nitrate mixed with sulfur ... can be exploded by shock. ... Mixtures of ammonium perchlorate with sulfur ... are impact sensitive.
National Fire Protection Association; Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 14TH Edition, Quincy, MA 2010, p. 491-187
Mixture of barium carbide and sulfur heated at 150 °C becomes incandescent ... Mixture of sulfur and barium chlorate ignites at about 108-111 °C. ... Calcium carbide reacts incandescently with sulfur vapors at 500 °C. ... Calcium phosphide reacts with sulfur incandescently at about 300 °C.
National Fire Protection Association; Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 14TH Edition, Quincy, MA 2010, p. 491-188
Powdered sulfur is spontaneously flammable when mixed with lampblack or freshly calcined charcoal. ... A piece of sulfur ... takes fire spontaneously in chlorine dioxide and may produce an explosion ... Flowers-of-sulfur moistened with chromyl chloride ignites spontaneously. ... Mixture of sulfur & lead chlorate ignites @ about 63-67 °C.
National Fire Protection Association; Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 14TH Edition, Quincy, MA 2010, p. 491-188
For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (36 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.9 Transport Information

13.9.1 DOT Emergency Guidelines

/GUIDE 133: FLAMMABLE SOLIDS/ Fire or Explosion: Flammable/combustible material. May be ignited by friction, heat, sparks or flames. Some may burn rapidly with flare burning effect. Powders, dusts, shavings, borings, turnings or cuttings may explode or burn with explosive violence. Substance may be transported in a molten form at a temperature that may be above its flash point. May re-ignite after fire is extinguished.
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2008 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2008212-3
/GUIDE 133: FLAMMABLE SOLIDS/ Health: Fire may produce irritating and/or toxic gases. Contact may cause burns to skin and eyes. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Runoff from fire control may cause pollution.
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2008 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2008212-3
/GUIDE 133: FLAMMABLE SOLIDS/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 25 meters (75 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas.
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2008 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2008212-3
/GUIDE 133: FLAMMABLE SOLIDS/ Protection Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection.
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2008 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2008212-3
For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.9.2 Shipping Name / Number DOT/UN/NA/IMO

UN 1350; Sulfur, lump and coarse grained powder, or fine grained powder; Sulfur, molten
UN 2448; Sulfur, molten
IMO 4.1; Sulfur, lump and coarse grained powder, or fine grained powder; Sulfur, molten

13.9.3 Standard Transportation Number

49 453 56; Sulfur; Sulphur; Sulfur flow; Flowers of Sulfur

13.9.4 Shipment Methods and Regulations

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./
49 CFR 171.2 (7/1/96)
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials.
IATA. Dangerous Goods Regulations. 38th ed. Montreal, Canada and Geneva, Switzerland: International Air Transport Association, Dangerous Goods Board, January, 1997., p. 217
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article.
IMDG; International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code; International Maritime Organization p.4060,4061,4061-1 (1988)

13.9.5 UN Classification

UN Hazard Class: 4.1; UN Pack Group: III

13.10 Regulatory Information

The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Chemical: Sulfur, homopolymer
The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Chemical: Sulfur
The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Chemical: Thion
Status Regulation (EC)
2009/70, Reg. (EU) 2020/1511, Reg. (EU) 2021/1449, Reg. (EU) 2022/1480, Reg. (EU) 2023/2592, Reg. (EU) No 540/2011
REACH Registered Substance
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status
Sulfur, excluding formed sulfur: Does not have an individual approval but may be used under an appropriate group standard
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status
Sulfur, homopolymer: Does not have an individual approval but may be used as a component in a product covered by a group standard. It is not approved for use as a chemical in its own right.

13.10.1 FIFRA Requirements

Residues of sulfur are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to animals. Use: stabilizer. Limit: None.
40 CFR 180.930 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 18, 2011: https://www.ecfr.gov
Section 4(g)(2)(A) of FIFRA calls for the Agency to determine, after submission of relevant data concerning an active ingredient, whether products containing the active ingredient are eligible for reregistration. The Agency has previously identified and required the submission of all the generic (i.e., active-ingredient specific) data required to support reregistration of products containing sulfur as an active ingredient. The Agency has completed its review of these generic data, and has determined that the data are sufficient to support reregistration of products containing sulfur.
USEPA/Office of Pesticide Programs; Reregistration Eligibility Decision Document - Sulfur p.9 (March 1991). Available from, as of July 19, 2011: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/status.htm
As the federal pesticide law FIFRA directs, EPA is conducting a comprehensive review of older pesticides to consider their health and environmental effects and make decisions about their future use. Under this pesticide reregistration program, EPA examines health and safety data for pesticide active ingredients initially registered before November 1, 1984, and determines whether they are eligible for reregistration. In addition, all pesticides must meet the new safety standard of the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996. Sulfur is found on List A, which contains most food use pesticides and consists of the 194 chemical cases (or 350 individual active ingredients) for which EPA issued registration standards prior to FIFRA, as amended in 1988. Case No: 0031; Pesticide type: fungicide; Registration Standard Date: 12/19/82; Case Status: RED Approved 05/91; OPP has made a decision that some/all uses of the pesticide are eligible for reregistration, as reflected in a Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) document.; Active ingredient (AI): sulfur; AI Status: OPP has completed a Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) document for the case/AI.
USEPA/OPP; Status of Pesticides in Registration, Reregistration and Special Review p.149 (Spring, 1998) EPA 738-R-98-002

13.10.2 FDA Requirements

Sulfur is an indirect food additive for use only as a component of adhesives.
21 CFR 175.105 (USFDA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 18, 2011: https://www.ecfr.gov

13.11 Other Safety Information

Chemical Assessment

IMAP assessments - Sulfur: Human health tier I assessment

IMAP assessments - Sulfur: Environment tier I assessment

Chemical Assessment
Evaluation - Chemicals not considered for in depth evaluation - Not commercially active in Australia

13.11.1 Toxic Combustion Products

Combustion by-products include sulfur dioxide gas.
National Fire Protection Association; Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 14TH Edition, Quincy, MA 2010, p. 49-139

13.11.2 Special Reports

Environment Canada; Tech Info for Problem Spills: Sulfur (Draft) (1981).
Nat'l Research Council Canada; Sulfur and its Inorganic Derivatives in the Canadian Environ. (1977) NRCC No. 15015.
USEPA/Office of Pesticide Programs; Reregistration Eligibility Decision Document - Sulfur (March 1991). The RED summarizes the risk assessment conclusions and outlines any risk reduction measures necessary for the pesticide to continue to be registered in the U.S.[Available from, as of July 19, 2011: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/status.htm]

14 Toxicity

14.1 Toxicological Information

14.1.1 Exposure Routes

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and by ingestion.

14.1.2 Symptoms

Inhalation Exposure
Burning sensation. Cough. Sore throat.
Skin Exposure
Redness.
Eye Exposure
Redness. Pain. Blurred vision.
Ingestion Exposure
Burning sensation. Diarrhoea.

14.1.3 Toxicity Data

LC50 (mammals) = 1660 mg/m3

14.1.4 Antidote and Emergency Treatment

Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR as necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Sulfur and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3Rd edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2005, p. 479
Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200 ml of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool ... . Administer activated charcoal ... . Cover skin burns with dry sterile dressings after decontamination ... . /Sulfur and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3Rd edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2005, p. 479-80
Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag-valve-mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Consider administering a beta agonist such as albuterol for severe bronchospasms ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors if patient is hypotensive with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Sulfur and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3Rd edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2005, p. 480

14.1.5 Medical Surveillance

Employment examination should ensure that persons suffering from bronchitis or asthma /are protected against exposure/ to sulfur. In the periodical examination, clinical examination should be supplemented by chest X-ray.
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 2121

14.1.6 Human Toxicity Excerpts

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ A study of the elemental composition of metal working fluid (MWF) aerosols was conducted to determine which component of the MWFs could be responsible for pulmonary function decrements in exposed automobile parts manufacturing workers. Four components were selected for analysis: elemental sulfur, chlorine, chromium and nickel. The concn of these elements in aerosols of the MWFs used by the workers were determined. Associations between the element concn and the overshift FEV1 decrements were examined by case control techniques. The mean chlorine, chromium, nickel and sulfur concn in the straight MWF aerosols were 1.90, 0.16, 0.03 and 4.21 ug/cu m respectively. The mean concn of these elements in the water soluble MWF aerosols were 3.13, 0.15, 0.02 and 3.52 ug/cu m, respectively. Exposure to sulfur concn in the straight and soluble MWF combined was significantly associated with incr of sustaining a 5% or greater overshift decr in FEV1, odds ratio (OR) 3.3. This association was also seen when the sulfur concn of the straight and soluble MWFs was considered separately, ORs 5 and 2.9 respectively. ... A more detailed analysis of the association between sulfur and overshift FEV1 decr showed that the relative risk (RR) for sustaining a 5% overshift decr in FEV1 incr by 2.5 for every unit logarithmic incr in sulfur concn. On a linear scale, this indicated that the RR was 2.7 for sulfur concn above 5.6 ug/cu m compared to concn below 2.1 ug/cu m. ... /Metal working fluid/
Sama SR, et al; Amer J Indust Med 31 (6): 767-76 (1997)
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ When administered orally, sulfur reportedly has a laxative or cathartic effect.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2011; Drug Information 2011. Bethesda, MD. 2011
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Topically applied sulfur is a keratolytic agent. Sulfur has keratoplastic activity at low concentrations, correcting abnormal keratinization, and keratolytic activity at high concentrations, causing peeling of skin; these effects apparently result from the same action of the drug. ... Although the mechanism of sulfur's keratolytic action has not been determined, this action may depend on formation of hydrogen sulfide when the drug comes in contact with skin; the production of the characteristic odor of rotten eggs when sulfur comes in contact with skin results from hydrogen sulfide formation. Hydrogen sulfide may be formed within the epidermis by sulfur reacting with cysteine.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2011; Drug Information 2011. Bethesda, MD. 2011
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Acute effects of sulfur inhalation including catarrhal inflammation of nasal mucosa, which may lead to hyperplasia with abundant nasal secretion. Tracheobronchitis is frequent occurrence with dyspnea, persistent cough and expectoration ... sometimes streaked with blood. There may also be irritation of eyes, with lacrimation, photophobia, conjunctivitis and blepharoconjunctivitis; cases of damage to crystalline lens have also been described, with formation of opacities and even cataract and focal chorioretinitis. Skin may be subject to erythematous and eczematous lesions and signs of ulceration, especially in ... workers whose hands are in prolonged or repeated contact with powdered sulfur ... at beginning, miner suffers from upper respiratory tract catarrh, with cough, and expectoration which is mucoid and may even contain grains of sulfur. Asthma is frequent complication. Maxillary and frontal sinuses may be affected; involvement is usually bilateral and pansinusitis may be observed in some cases. ... Lung function exam has shown changes in pulmonary ventilation, increased oxygen consumption, reduced expiratory volume/sec and increased residual volume pulmonary carbon dioxide diffusion capacity was also impaired.
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 2121
For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (18 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.7 Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Using a maximization test with the guinea pig, a 1% or 5% aqueous solution of elemental or lime sulfur was a moderately strong allergen.
Krieger, R. (ed.). Handbook of Pesticide Toxicology. Volume 2, 2nd ed. 2001. Academic Press, San Diego, California., p. 1786
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ In /a/ nonstandard test, using subcutaneous injection in the Wistar rat, a 25% aqueous solution of wettable powder or a 22% solution of lime sulfur caused a four or five (mild or slight irritation or slight erythema).
Krieger, R. (ed.). Handbook of Pesticide Toxicology. Volume 2, 2nd ed. 2001. Academic Press, San Diego, California., p. 1786
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Using the Buehler test, induction doses were applied to clipped skin at 0.4 mL or 500 mg/guinea pig (ca. 1 to 2 g/kg) three times, on a weekly basis, followed two weeks later by a challenge dose, to a naive site. Dermal sensitization was measured, as erythema with or without edema, in response to the challenge dose, at 24 and 48 hr, on a scale of 0 to 3. All of the (seven) formulations tested scored zero, i.e., were negative.
Krieger, R. (ed.). Handbook of Pesticide Toxicology. Volume 2, 2nd ed. 2001. Academic Press, San Diego, California., p. 1784
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ A single-dose limit test was conducted using the rabbit (six of either sex), dosed at 0.5 mL/sq inch (or 0.5 g/sq inch) for 4 hr. The responses were graded. Nineteen of 20 formulations caused mild or slight irritation (Category IV); 1 showed moderate irritation at 72 hr (Category III).
Krieger, R. (ed.). Handbook of Pesticide Toxicology. Volume 2, 2nd ed. 2001. Academic Press, San Diego, California., p. 1784
For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (26 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.8 Non-Human Toxicity Values

LD50 Rabbit dermal >2000 mg/kg bw
European Commission, ESIS; IUCLID Dataset, Sulfur (7704-34-9) p.69(2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from as of July 29, 2011 https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
LC50 Hamster inhalation >0.047 mg/L 4 hr
European Commission, ESIS; IUCLID Dataset, Sulfur (7704-34-9) p.69(2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from as of July 29, 2011 https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
LC50 Mouse inhalation >0.047 mg/L 4 hr
European Commission, ESIS; IUCLID Dataset, Sulfur (7704-34-9) p.69(2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from as of July 29, 2011 https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
LC50 Rat inhalation >0.047 mg/L 4 hr
European Commission, ESIS; IUCLID Dataset, Sulfur (7704-34-9) p.69(2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from as of July 29, 2011 https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.2 Ecological Information

14.2.1 EPA Ecotoxicity

Pesticide Ecotoxicity Data from EPA

14.2.2 Ecotoxicity Values

LC50; Species: Colinus virginianus (Northern Bobwhite Quail, age 14 days) diet >5620 ppm for 14 days
USEPA/OPP, EFED; Pesticide Ecotoxicity Database (2000) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of July 13, 2011: https://cfpub.epa.gov/ecotox/
EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea, age <24 hr); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: >5000000 ug/L for 48 hr; Effect: intoxication, immobilization /90% purity/
USEPA/OPP, EFED; Pesticide Ecotoxicity Database (2000) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of July 13, 2011: https://cfpub.epa.gov/ecotox/
EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea, 1st instar larvae); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 3850000 ug/L for 96 hr; Effect: intoxication, immobilization /90% purity/
USEPA/OPP, EFED; Pesticide Ecotoxicity Database (2000) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of July 13, 2011: https://cfpub.epa.gov/ecotox/
LC50; Species: Americamysis bahia (Opossum Shrimp, age 24 hr); Conditions: saltwater, static; Concentration: 736000 ug/L for 96 hr (95% confidence interval: 646000-839000 ug/L) /90% purity/
USEPA/OPP, EFED; Pesticide Ecotoxicity Database (2000) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of July 13, 2011: https://cfpub.epa.gov/ecotox/
For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.2.3 Ecotoxicity Excerpts

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Freshwater toxicology of sulfur on fish as follows: 16,000 ppm for 5 hr on goldfish resulted in 100% mortality under turbid water conditions; 10 to 80 ppm on goldfish resulted in a theoretical threshold; 10,000 ppm for 96 hr on mosquito fish was the resulting TLm under turbid water conditions; 1,600 for 3.5 to 5.25 hr on goldfish proved fatal under colloidal sulfur in tap water.
Environment Canada; Tech Info for Problem Spills: Sulfur (Draft) p.39 (1977)
/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Recent literature indicates that the elemental sulfur occurring in organic extracts of sediment samples can be toxic to the bacterium Vibrio fischeri, used in standard Microtox bioassays. This observation was tested by means of the solvent extraction of 14 freshwater sediment samples from rivers tributary to Lake Geneva (Switzerland-France), measuring both Microtox toxicity and the elemental sulfur concentration of the extracts. Aliquots of these sediment extracts were further treated to remove the sulfur by adding acid-activated copper to the crude extracts; for 18 hr in one case, and for 116 hr in another. The results were a significant amount of the observed acute toxicity in the Microtox assay of 81% of sample extracts (n = 42, crude and after cleanup) was due to elemental sulfur, and despite a median decrease of 99.1% of elemental sulfur in the extracts subject to a 116-hr cleanup, sulfur toxicity was not completely excluded for 57% (8/14) of the samples.
Pardos M et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 18 (2): 188-93 (1999)
/PLANTS/ Phytotoxic, to some extent, to a number of crops, incl cucurbits, apricots, raspberries, and certain other 'sulfur-shy' /sulfur sensitive plant/ varieties.
Hartley, D. and H. Kidd (eds.). The Agrochemicals Handbook. 2nd ed. Lechworth, Herts, England: The Royal Society of Chemistry, 1987., p. A365/Aug 87
/FIELD STUDIES/ In the case of a 3-year field study on highbush blueberry bushes in mineral soil, sulfur amendment increased both early growth and blueberry yield. It was concluded that the effects of sulfur were probably mediated by a decrease in soil pH with corresponding increases in Mn and Fe levels. It was also found, in a lysimeter study, that increasing the sulfur content of soil led to a rise in sulfur content of plants, such as corn, wheat, barley, sunflower, and mustard.
Krieger, R. (ed.). Handbook of Pesticide Toxicology. Volume 2, 2nd ed. 2001. Academic Press, San Diego, California., p. 1781

14.2.4 Environmental Fate / Exposure Summary

Sulfur accounts for 15% of the inner core of the earth and 0.052% of its crust. The total sulfur content of the earth is estimated to be about 18.2X10+15 tons. The world is rich in large and highly pure deposits of elemental sulfur from which commercial sulfur can be mined. Sulfur minerals include gypsum, epsomite, miralulite, pyrite and marcasite, sphalerite, chalcopyrite, cobaltitle, pyrrhalite, galena, arsenopyrite, and pentlandite. Elemental sulfur occurs in salt domes, volcanic deposits and some deposits of calcite, gypsum, and anhydrite. In every state, whether gas, liquid, or solid, elemental sulfur occurs in more than one allotropic form. Three are relevant in nature: -2 (sulfhydryl and sulfide), 0 (elemental sulfur), and +6 (sulfate). The global sulfur cycle involves an atmospheric flux of about (140-350)X10+6 tons/annum, with (40-60)X10+6 tons as anthropogenic sulfur, in the form of sulfur dioxide, sulfuric acid, and sulfate. The rest ((100-290)X10+6 tonns/annum) involves biological decay, sea spray, and volcanism. However, the increasing acid precipitation from industrial stack emissions has seriously disturbed the natural sulfur cycle. Sulfur also paricipates in microbial cycles. Numerous microorganisms and plants use sulfate as their sole source of sulfur, converting it to organic sulfhydryl compounds in the oxidation state of -2. Many microorganisms, mainly Thiobacillus sp., can produce sulfide which under aerobic conditions is oxidized to sulfur and sulfate either spontaneously or through biochemical processes. (SRC)

14.2.5 Natural Pollution Sources

Sulfur accounts for 15% of the inner core of the earth and 0.052% of its crust. The total sulfur content of the earth is estimated to be about 18.2X10+15 tons. ... The global sulfur cycle involves an atmospheric flux of about (140-350)X10+6 tons/annum, /with (100-290)X10+6 tonns/annum involving/ ... biological decay, sea spray, and volcanism. Sulfur also paricipates in microbial cycles. The world is rich in large and highly pure deposits of elemental sulfur from which commercial sulfur can be mined.
Seiler, H.G., H. Sigel and A. Sigel (eds.). Handbook on the Toxicity of Inorganic Compounds. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1988., p. 640
Native in Texas; Louisiana; Sicily; Canada (Alberta); Poland; Saudi Arabia; Mexico; Iraq; offshore deposits in Gulf of Mexico; the former USSR; Japan
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 1191
Has been known from very early times. Occurs both in free state, and in combination, mainly as sulfides and sulfates
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 1539
Sulfur minerals include gypsum, epsomite, miralulite, pyrite and marcasite, sphalerite, chalcopyrite, cobaltitle, pyrrhalite, galena, arsenopyrite, and pentlandite. Elemental sulfur occurs in salt domes, volcanic deposits and some deposits of calcite, gypsum, and anhydrite.
Nat'l Research Council Canada; Sulfur and Its Inorganic Derivatives in the Canadian Environment p.184 (1977) NRCC No. 15015
For more Natural Pollution Sources (Complete) data for Sulfur, Elemental (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.2.6 Artificial Pollution Sources

Waste from kraft mills, sugar refining, petroleum refining, and copper and iron extraction contain appreciable amount of sulfur.
Brown, K.W., G. B. Evans, Jr., B.D. Frentrup (eds.). Hazardous Waste Land Treatment. Boston, MA: Butterworth Publishers, 1983., p. 212
Sulfuric acid manufacture, pulp and paper manufacture, carbon disulfide, rubber vulcanization, detergents, petroleum refining, dyes and chemicals, drugs and pharmaceuticals, explosives, rodent repellants, soil conditioner, coating for controlled-release fertilizers, nucleating reagent for photographic film, cement sealant, binder and asphalt extender in road paving (up to 40%), base material for low-temperature mortars. /Sulfur compounds/
Lide, D.R. CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics 88TH Edition 2007-2008. CRC Press, Taylor & Francis, Boca Raton, FL 2007, p. 4-34
Considerable quantities of sulfur are recovered ... from sources other than sour natural gas, such as from smelter gases, other metallurgical processes, and petroleum refining.
Nat'l Research Council Canada; Sulfur and Its Inorganic Derivatives in the Canadian Environment p.23 (1977) NRCC No. 15015
The global sulfur cycle involves an atmospheric flux of about (140-350)X10+6 tons/annum, with (40-60)X10+6 tons as anthropogenic sulfur, in the form of sulfur dioxide, sulfuric acid, and sulfate. The rest involves biological decay, sea spray, and volcanism. Sulfur also paricipates in microbial cycles. The world is rich in large and highly pure deposits of elemental sulfur from which commercial sulfur can be mined.
Seiler, H.G., H. Sigel and A. Sigel (eds.). Handbook on the Toxicity of Inorganic Compounds. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1988., p. 640
The increasing acid precipitation from industrial stack emissions has seriously disturbed the natural sulfur cycle(1,2). /Sulfur compounds/
(1) Odum EP; Fundamentals of Ecology. Philadelphia, PA: W.B. Saunders Co., p. 91 (1971)
(2) Zhang J et al; Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 72: 850-857 (2004)

14.2.7 Environmental Biodegradation

Biogenic sulfur compounds originate from non-specific bacterial reduction of organic sulfur, for example plant decomposition, and from specific sulfate reducing bacteria. Sulfate-reducing microbes are strict anaerobes, while the nonspecific reducers may be found in aerobic or anaerobic environments(1). Microbial activity plays a key role in the release and leaching of trace elements such as sulfur from metalliferous peat soils from the Elba, New York region(2).
(1) Aneja VP et al; J Air Pollut Control Assoc 32: 803-807 (1980)
(2) Qureshi S et al; J Environ Qual 32: 2067-2075 (2003)

14.2.8 Effluent Concentrations

Sulfur reaches local water courses, in limited amounts by dusting of solid sulfur (state form) during transportation and handling at ports; runoff from storage areas; and accidental spills.
Environment Canada; Tech Info for Problem Spills: Sulphur (Draft) p.39 (1981)

14.2.9 Sediment / Soil Concentrations

When spilled onto soil, molten sulfur will solidify prior to any significant movement into the soil. In solid form, sulfur is insoluble and thus cannot be transported downward to the ground water table. Traces of hydrogen sulfide represent the only aqueous phase contaminant likely to be detected.
Environment Canada; Tech Info for Problem Spills: Sulfur (Draft) p.37 (1977)
SOIL: The weight percent of elemental sulfur in soil has been reported to range from 0.003 to 1%(1). The average amount of sulfur in soils of the conterminous US has been reported as 1600 ppm, ranging from <800 to 48,000 ppm(2).
(1) Mattigold SV et al; J Environ Qual 19: 188-201 (1990)
(2) Shacklette HT, Boerngen JG; Element concentrations in soils and other surficial materials of the conterminous United States. U.S. Geol. Surv., Professional Paper 1270, pp. 1-106. (1984)

14.2.10 Food Survey Values

... Soybean flour contains 14 wt% ... milk, eggs, beef, bread, beans, soybean, wheat, and peanut all contain between 1.1 and 8 wt% sulfur.
Seiler, H.G., H. Sigel and A. Sigel (eds.). Handbook on the Toxicity of Inorganic Compounds. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1988., p. 640

14.2.11 Probable Routes of Human Exposure

According to the 2006 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed in the industrial manufacturing, processing, and use of sulfur is 1000 or greater; the data may be greatly underestimated(1).
(1) US EPA; Inventory Update Reporting (IUR). Non-confidential 2006 IUR Records by Chemical, including Manufacturing, Processing and Use Information. Washington, DC: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Available from, as of Jul 14, 2011: https://cfpub.epa.gov/iursearch/index.cfm
SULFUR IS WIDELY USED & THERE ARE NUMEROUS OPERATIONS, SUCH AS SHOVELING, GRINDING, SCREENING, & BAGGING, WHERE SULFUR DUST IN CONSIDERABLE AMT IS FOUND IN THE ATMOSPHERE.
Patty, F. (ed.). Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume II: Toxicology. 2nd ed. New York: Interscience Publishers, 1963., p. 892
The greatest sulfur hazard is encountered in the traditional extraction of sulfur bearing rock, since the inhalation of the high concentrations of sulfur dust encountered in sulfur mines may have harmful effects on the respiratory system.
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 2121
Sulfur reaches local water courses, in limited amounts by dusting of solid sulfur (state form) during transportation and handling at ports; runnoff from storage areas; and accidental spills.
Environment Canada; Tech Info for Problem Spills: Sulphur (Draft) p.39 (1981)

14.2.12 Average Daily Intake

According to the FDA Total Diet Study, conducted from July 1986 through April 1991, the mean daily intake of body weight (ug/kg body weight/day, age) of sulfur was as follows: 0.0064 (6-11 months); 0.0368 (2 yrs); 0.0055 (14-16 years, female); 0.0054 (14-16 years, male); 0.0053 (25-30 years, female); 0.0031 (25-30 years, male); 0.0069 (60-65 years, female); 0.0068 (60-65 years, male)(1).
(1) Gunderson EL; J AOAC Int 78: 1353-63 (1995)

15 Associated Disorders and Diseases

16 Literature

16.1 Consolidated References

16.2 NLM Curated PubMed Citations

16.3 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Literature

16.4 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Literature

16.5 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Literature

17 Patents

17.1 Depositor-Supplied Patent Identifiers

17.2 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Patents

17.3 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Patents

17.4 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Patents

18 Interactions and Pathways

18.1 Chemical-Target Interactions

19 Taxonomy

WormJam Metabolites Local CSV for MetFrag | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.3403364
WormJam: A consensus C. elegans Metabolic Reconstruction and Metabolomics Community and Workshop Series, Worm, 6:2, e1373939, DOI:10.1080/21624054.2017.1373939
The LOTUS Initiative for Open Natural Products Research: frozen dataset union wikidata (with metadata) | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.5794106

20 Classification

20.1 MeSH Tree

20.2 WHO ATC Classification System

20.3 CAMEO Chemicals

20.4 UN GHS Classification

20.5 NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification

20.6 Consumer Product Information Database Classification

20.7 EPA TSCA and CDR Classification

20.8 LOTUS Tree

20.9 MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology

21 Information Sources

  1. Athena Minerals
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  2. Handbook of Mineralogy
  3. RRUFF Project
  4. USGS National Minerals Information Center
  5. Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS)
  6. CAS Common Chemistry
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  9. EPA DSSTox
  10. European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
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    https://echa.europa.eu/web/guest/legal-notice
  11. Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
  12. ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
  13. New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)
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    https://rais.ornl.gov/
  16. EU Pesticides Database
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  18. Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD)
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    https://www.whatsinproducts.com/contents/view/1/6
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    https://www.whatsinproducts.com/
  20. DailyMed
  21. Drugs@FDA
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  23. E. coli Metabolome Database (ECMDB)
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  24. ECI Group, LCSB, University of Luxembourg
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    sulfur atom
  25. LOTUS - the natural products occurrence database
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  26. Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
  27. Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
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  28. EPA Pesticide Ecotoxicity Database
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  30. NITE-CMC
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  32. FDA Orange Book
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  34. FooDB
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  36. Pistoia Alliance Chemical Safety Library
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  42. Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
    LICENSE
    Works produced by the U.S. government are not subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any such works found on National Library of Medicine (NLM) Web sites may be freely used or reproduced without permission in the U.S.
    https://www.nlm.nih.gov/copyright.html
  43. PubChem
  44. GHS Classification (UNECE)
  45. CAMEO Chemicals
    LICENSE
    CAMEO Chemicals and all other CAMEO products are available at no charge to those organizations and individuals (recipients) responsible for the safe handling of chemicals. However, some of the chemical data itself is subject to the copyright restrictions of the companies or organizations that provided the data.
    https://cameochemicals.noaa.gov/help/reference/terms_and_conditions.htm?d_f=false
    CAMEO Chemical Reactivity Classification
    https://cameochemicals.noaa.gov/browse/react
  46. MolGenie
    MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology
    https://github.com/MolGenie/ontology/
  47. NCBI
CONTENTS