Chapter 1 - Introduction

Abstract

This chapter describes the chemical properties of sulfur and their relation to the production, use, and recovery of the element. Both basic chemistry and industrial use of sulfur influence energy production and the extent to which the environment can be protected. Thus, sulfur is an important parameter in the choice of new technology and in determining practically enforceable environmental laws. Sulfur is an important plant nutrient because it is a vital component of several proteins. Its shortage stunts the growth of plants and reduces crop yield. The basic chemical properties of sulfur remain the same regardless of the manner in which it is used. Thus, sulfur chemistry is the link between the various applications and uses of the element and establishes the intrinsic limits of any process in which sulfur is involved. If the basic sulfur chemistry is resulting in undesirable products, or the thermodynamics or kinetics are unfavorable, all efforts including legislation, political pressure, money, or engineering are in vain.