Sodium bisulfite
Sodium bisulfite is a chemical mixture with the approximate chemical formula NaHSO3. Sodium bisulfite in fact is not a real compound, but a mixture of salts that dissolve in water to give solutions composed of sodium and bisulfite ions. It is a white solid with an odour of sulfur dioxide. Regardless of its ill-defined nature, "sodium bisulfite" is a food additive with E number E222.Synthesis
Sodium bisulfite solutions can be prepared by treating a solution of suitable base, such as sodium hydroxide or sodium bicarbonate with sulfur dioxide.
Attempts to crystallise the product yields sodium disulfite, Na2S2O5.Reactivity and uses
Sodium bisulfite is a common industrial reducing agent, as it readily reacts with dissolved oxygen:
It is usually added to large piping systems to prevent oxidative corrosion. In biochemical engineering applications, it is helpful to maintain anaerobic conditions within a reactor.
It is used for preserving food and beverages.
