High Purity Carbonyl Sulfide (COS) Specialty Gases

Carbonyl sulfide is a colorless, poisonous, flammable gas with a distinct sulfide odor. The gas is toxic and narcotic in low concentrations and presents a moderate fire hazard. Under prolonged exposure to fire or intense heat the container may rupture violently or rocket.

Carbonyl sulfide is soluble in water, although it is less soluble than sulfur dioxide. It also dissolves in organic solvents.COS has a relatively low thermal conductivity, which is typical for gases, especially those with small molecules.As a gas, the viscosity of carbonyl sulfide is low and behaves similarly to other gases in this regard.

Carbonyl sulfide is relatively unreactive under normal conditions but can react with strong oxidizing agents and bases.COS is used in the production of various chemicals, including carbon disulfide and thioformaldehyde.It is also used as a propellant in the aerospace industry and as a reference gas in the calibration of gas analyzers.

Carbonyl sulfide is toxic and can cause respiratory and other health issues. It is important to handle carbonyl sulfide with appropriate safety measures, including proper ventilation and personal protective equipment (PPE).It is also important to store and transport COS in a way that prevents contact with strong oxidizers and bases, as it can react with them.

Applications

Carbonyl sulfide is used as an intermediate in the production of thiocarbamate herbicides. Carbonyl sulfide is a potential alternative fumigant to methyl bromide and phosphine. In some cases, however, residues on the grain result in flavours that are unacceptable to consumers, e.g. barley used for brewing.