Buying Guide: Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate

If Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate is a key part of your industrial or manufacturing process, this guide will serve as a valuable resource.
Let’s explore the fundamentals, characteristics, and applications of this widely used compound.
What is Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate?
Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate (chemical formula: FeSO₄·7H₂O) is an inorganic iron salt composed of iron, sulfur, and oxygen, commonly appearing as blue-green crystals or granules. It is the heptahydrate form of ferrous sulfate, which means each molecule is bound to seven water molecules.
It is primarily used for iron supplementation in agriculture, industrial water treatment, pigment manufacturing, and as a reducing agent in various chemical processes.
How to Identify Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate

Common Identifiers and Forms:
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Appearance: Pale blue-green crystals or crystalline powder
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CAS Number: 7782-63-0
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Molecular Formula: FeSO₄·7H₂O
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Molecular Weight: 278.01 g/mol
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EINECS No.: 231-753-5
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Solubility: Soluble in water; insoluble in alcohol
Chemical Properties of Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate
| Property |
Description |
| Form |
Crystalline powder or granules |
| Color |
Pale blue-green |
| Purity |
98–99.5% (Industrial Grade) |
| pH (1% Solution) |
~3–5 |
| Solubility |
Readily soluble in water |
| Iron (Fe²⁺) Content |
Typically ≥19.5% |
| Melting Point |
Decomposes before melting (~64°C) |
| Odor |
Odorless |
Applications of Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate

1. Agriculture
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Used as a soil amendment to correct iron deficiencies in plants (chlorosis)
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Fertilizer additive for crops like rice, wheat, fruits, and vegetables
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Source of iron in animal feed
2. Water Treatment
3. Industrial Applications
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As a reducing agent in the manufacture of dyes, pigments, and other chemicals
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Key ingredient in the production of iron oxide pigments (yellow and red)
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Used in the purification of water in mining and metallurgy
4. Medicine (Pharmaceutical Grade)
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Used in iron supplements to treat anemia (note: pharmaceutical-grade only)
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Found in tablets, capsules, and liquid formulations
5. Construction Industry
Types & Grades of Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate
| Grade |
Use Case |
Key Feature |
| Agricultural Grade |
Fertilizer, soil amendment |
Cost-effective, >98% purity |
| Industrial Grade |
Pigments, water treatment, chemical use |
High Fe²⁺ content |
| Feed Grade |
Animal feed supplementation |
Food-safe, consistent quality |
| Pharmaceutical Grade |
Human supplements |
>99% purity, GMP/USP certified |
Is Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate a Reducing Agent?
Yes. Ferrous sulfate heptahydrate acts as a reducing agent in many chemical processes. It readily donates electrons, making it useful in the treatment of chromate in cement and in dye production.
Is Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate Toxic?

While it is essential for biological functions, excess exposure—especially ingestion in large quantities—can be toxic. Always follow safety guidelines:
Is Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate Flammable or Explosive?
No. Ferrous sulfate heptahydrate is not flammable or explosive. However:
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Avoid contact with oxidizers
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Store in a cool, dry area
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Protect from humidity to prevent degradation
Ferrous Sulfate vs Other Iron Salts
| Property |
Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate |
Ferric Chloride |
Ferrous Gluconate |
| Solubility in Water |
High |
High |
Moderate |
| Iron Form |
Fe²⁺ |
Fe³⁺ |
Fe²⁺ |
| Common Use |
Agriculture, water treatment |
Water treatment |
Supplements |
| Toxicity Level |
Moderate |
High |
Low |
Purity Standards
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Industrial grade: 98–99.5% FeSO₄·7H₂O
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Feed/Pharma grade: ≥99% with low impurity levels
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Standards: ISO9001, REACH, GMP, USP compliant (where applicable)
Price & Supplier Considerations
Pricing depends on:
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Grade (industrial, agricultural, pharma)
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Packaging (bulk or customized)
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Origin (China, India, Europe)
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Purity and Fe²⁺ content
When choosing a supplier:
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Request COA, MSDS, and Technical Data Sheets
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Check for compliance with ISO, GMP, or REACH
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Confirm storage & shelf-life
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Prefer suppliers with global shipping & stock availability
How to Buy Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate
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Define Application
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Choose the Grade
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Request Documentation
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COA, MSDS, TDS, and certifications (ISO, REACH)
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Trial Sample (Optional)
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Verify Packaging
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Work with Reliable Suppliers
Conclusion
Ferrous Sulfate Heptahydrate is a vital raw material across agriculture, industry, water treatment, and health sectors. Its role as an iron supplement, flocculant, and pigment precursor underlines its industrial importance.
For optimal results:
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Select the appropriate grade and purity
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Follow safe storage and handling practices
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Partner with certified suppliers offering documentation and global support