Sodium Chlorate Storage — NaClO3 Pulp-Mill ClO2 Generator Tank

Storing Sodium Chlorate? Start Here

Sodium chlorate is a versatile chemical primarily used in pulp mills for chlorine-dioxide generation, as well as in herbicides and specialty oxidizers. It's typically stored as a 50% aqueous solution. When storing sodium chlorate, the key is to ensure it is kept in a suitable tank that can handle its oxidizing nature safely over the long term. This guide will help you understand the best practices for storing sodium chlorate.

Can you store it in a poly tank?

Yes, you can store sodium chlorate in a polyethylene tank. Both HDPE and XLPE tanks are suitable for this purpose. They can safely hold sodium chlorate solutions at typical storage temperatures. However, always ensure that the tank is rated for the specific gravity of the solution (1.42) and that it is kept away from organic materials.

Watch Out for Freezing Temperatures

If you're storing sodium chlorate in a cold climate, be aware that the solution begins to crystallize below 25°F. To prevent this, tanks should be equipped with heat tracing and insulation to maintain a temperature above 35°F.

The safety that actually matters

• Keep sodium chlorate away from organic materials to prevent fire hazards.
• Ensure tanks are compatible with the solution's specific gravity.
• Monitor temperature to avoid crystallization in cold climates.

Common questions

Can sodium chlorate be stored in stainless steel tanks?

Yes, 316L stainless steel is suitable for sodium chlorate storage.

What gaskets should I use?

EPDM gaskets are recommended for sodium chlorate solutions.

Is sodium chlorate safe for the environment?

Sodium chlorate is toxic to aquatic life, so spills should be avoided.