Sulfur is an element from Group 6 of the periodic table. It is a non-metal and is represented by the symbol S. This element exists in both crystalline and amorphous forms and has four stable isotopes. Sulfur is a crystalline solid at room temperature and has a bright yellow color. Sulfur burns with a blue flame, forming sulfur dioxide, which has a very irritating odor. Sulfur is insoluble in water but soluble in carbon disulfide and slightly soluble in other inorganic solvents such as benzene and toluene. Sulfur reacts with almost all elements except gold, platinum, iridium, nitrogen, tellurium, iodine, and the noble gases. Some of these reactions require high temperatures. Sulfur is usually found in nature as sulfide and sulfate compounds. The smell of natural gas, garlic, and grapefruit is due to organosulfur compounds. Hydrogen sulfide is responsible for the foul odor of rotten eggs. Sulfur is an essential element for the body. Amino acids such as cysteine, cystine, and methionine, as well as vitamins like biotin and thiamine, contain organosulfur compounds. Sulfur-containing compounds are also found in the structure of proteins. Sulfur is present in the keratin of hair and skin. Sulfur is one of the chemical elements necessary for biochemical functions and is considered a nutrient for all living organisms.
Sulfur has numerous applications both in its free form and in compounds. In recent years, the largest consumption of sulfur has been in the agricultural industry and the production of chemical fertilizers. This substance is used in oil refining, copper separation, uranium refining, chemical synthesis, paper and leather manufacturing, paints and resins, food industry, pharmaceuticals, metal plating, explosives, detergents, sulfur concrete, and the rubber industry. Sulfur is used directly to enhance agricultural soil, for fungicides, insecticides, match production, and in animal feed. The sulfur consumed worldwide comes from three main sources: mineral sulfur, sulfur in sulfur compounds, and sulfur associated with oil and gas.
