Sodium castorate

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Sodium castorate, also known by the names Glauber's salt, mirabilite, thenardite, sal mirabilis and sodium sulfate, is a well-known and widely used chemical compound. Occurring in the form of white crystals or powder, it is insoluble in acetone but dissolves well in water and glycerol. It is non-flammable and stable in air, but its vapours can be irritating on prolonged exposure. Sodium castorate is tasteless and odorless and is safe to handle under normal conditions.

Despite the fact that sodium castorate may not be the most common compound you would find in the home, it is found in many products we encounter on a daily basis. This is mainly because it is an excellent raw material for the production of glassware, detergents and paper. In the textile industry, it is used to remove dust and dirt from fibres. It is also used in the food industry as an acidity regulator or colour stabiliser. In cosmetics, it acts as a thickener or pH regulator. Its variable use in different industries makes it a truly versatile substance.