Cobalt(2+) Sulfate Hydrate

Cobalt sulfate is used in a wide variety of applications, from coatings and metal processing to adding color to ceramics. Such red crystalline powders are also sometimes found in human foods and pharmaceuticals. However, people have been opposed to the use of cobalt sulphate in non-industrial areas due to concerns about health risks.

Industrial applications

The addition of cobalt sulphate to the nickel plating bath makes the metal shiny, firm, flexible and smooth. This mineral is commonly used to produce ceramic glazes and to help dry and repair lithographic inks.

Food and medicine

Beer manufacturers have used cobalt sulphate to extend beer foam time, and large farmers have added cobalt sulphate to their feed to ensure that livestock get the trace minerals needed to produce vitamin B12. Of course, to date, cobalt sulphate has also played a role in the treatment of certain forms of anemia.

Health risk

Prolonged or repeated exposure of the eye and skin to cobalt sulphate can cause itching, rash and redness. Inhalation of cobalt sulphate dust can cause poisoning and may cause cancer. International health agencies have classified cobalt sulphate as a suspected carcinogen, but it is difficult to determine whether it is caused by this mineral because people often come into contact with other heavy metals and carcinogenic chemicals.

Cobalt sulfate poisoning

Inhalation of too much cobalt sulfate dust can cause a series of reactions such as cough, nausea, shortness of breath and vomiting, but there is no fatal danger. Poisoning caused by chronic inhalation of cobalt sulphate can cause irreversible blood thickening, heart enlargement (cardiomyopathy), pain and tingling, and diseases such as thyroid dysfunction.

U.S. health agencies list cobalt sulphate as a hazardous air pollutant and require factories to report emissions to government regulatory agencies. In addition, the US Food and Drug Administration prohibits the use of cobalt sulfate in human beverages, foods and pharmaceuticals.