Sodium lignosulfonate is not classified as hazardous under the GHS, but it is a fine powder, and handling it safely is mostly about controlling dust, storing it dry and cleaning up spills properly. This page follows the sections of our Grade One MSDS (Rev. 2.0).
Storage (SDS Section 7)
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area in the sealed original packing.
- Keep away from food and feed, heat sources, strong oxidizers, strong acids and strong bases.
- Reseal opened bags; the powder picks up moisture and can cake.
- Protect liquid grades from freezing.
Personal Protection (SDS Section 8)
| Exposure | Protection |
|---|---|
| Dust in the air | Local exhaust or general ventilation; a particulate respirator or dust mask if dust is present |
| Eyes | Safety glasses or goggles when handling powder |
| Skin | Gloves and work clothing |
| Hygiene | Wash hands after handling and before eating, drinking or smoking |
Spills (SDS Section 6)
- Avoid raising dust; wear the protective equipment above.
- Small spills: clean up promptly before the powder spreads or gets wet.
- Large spills: shovel the material into a suitable waste container, then rinse the residue with water in line with local wastewater rules.
- Prevent large quantities from reaching drains, waterways or soil.
- Spilled powder makes hard floors slippery; clean the area fully.
Fire (SDS Section 5)
The powder can burn at high temperature, giving carbon oxides, sulfur oxides and irritating fumes. Use water spray, foam, dry powder or carbon dioxide, and self-contained breathing apparatus in enclosed areas.
Disposal and Transport (SDS Sections 13 – 14)
- Dispose of unused material and packaging according to local, regional and national rules; do not discharge large amounts into drains.
- Empty bags should be handled to keep dust down, then disposed of or recycled.
- For transport it is not regulated as a dangerous good; protect bags from moisture and damage.
Toxicity and first aid are summarised in is sodium lignosulfonate toxic?; operator equipment in worker safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should sodium lignosulfonate be stored?
Sealed in its original packing in a cool, dry, ventilated place, away from food, feed, strong oxidizers, acids and bases. Protect liquid grades from freezing.
What PPE is needed to handle sodium lignosulfonate?
Safety glasses, gloves and work clothing, plus a dust mask or particulate respirator where dust is in the air.
How do I clean up a sodium lignosulfonate spill?
Avoid raising dust, shovel the material into a waste container and rinse residue with water in line with local rules. Keep large amounts out of drains.
Is sodium lignosulfonate a wood preservative?
No. It is a dispersant, binder and water reducer; it is not sold or tested as a wood preservative.
