Investigating the Smell of Strontium Chloride

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the unexpected sulfur-like odor produced during the reaction of Strontium Carbonate (SrCO3) with dilute Hydrochloric acid (HCl). Participants concluded that the odor likely originates from sulfur impurities in the Strontium Carbonate, as noted by a seller listing sulfur as a possible contaminant. The reaction produces colorless gases, yet the presence of even trace amounts of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) can result in a detectable smell, with a threshold of 0.0047 ppm. This indicates that the odor is not a direct result of the Strontium itself but rather impurities in the starting material.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of acid-base reactions, specifically between hydrochloric acid and carbonates.
  • Knowledge of chemical impurities and their effects on reactions.
  • Familiarity with the properties of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and its detection thresholds.
  • Basic chemistry knowledge regarding the behavior of strontium compounds.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the chemical properties and reactions of Strontium Carbonate (SrCO3).
  • Investigate the sources and effects of impurities in chemical reagents.
  • Learn about the detection and safety measures related to hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in laboratory settings.
  • Explore the implications of sulfur impurities in various chemical reactions.
USEFUL FOR

Chemists, laboratory technicians, and anyone involved in the preparation and analysis of chemical compounds, particularly those working with strontium and its derivatives.

mrjeffy321
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I was preparing a solution of Strontium Chloride by reacting Strontium Carbonate powder with some dilute Hydrochloric acid.
As expected, the acid reacted with the SrCO3 and began to fizzle (Carbon Dioxide forming in a similar reaction to vinegar and baking soda). I began to detect a slight odor in the air and, upon further inspection, it was coming from the SrCO3 + HCl reaction taking place. I wafted it a bit, it smelled a little like it had some Sulfur in it and it had the “rotten egg” smell. The only gas/gasses being produced in the reaction was/were colorless.

What could have caused this Sulfury odor? Does it have something to do with the Strontium? Or perhaps is it an impurity in the SrCO3?
 
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I think you probably have a sulfur impurity. This seller, http://www.atomixinc.com/strontiumcarbonate.htm , lists sulfur as a possible impurity. I get a strong sulfur smell when I add acids to iron sources because of sulfur impurities. You only need a little bit of H2S in order to smell it- 0.0047 ppm is the threshold for smelling it.
 
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Thats what I thought, its probably impurities.
It sure was strange getting that odor from a Strontium compound.
 

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