Stannous Fluoride (SnF2)
Stannous fluoride (SnF 2 , CAS 7783-47-3) is a white, water-soluble crystalline powder that supplies both fluoride and stannous ions. It is used in anti-cavity toothpastes, mouth rinses and dental gels for caries, plaque and sensitivity control, and in tin electroplating, glass, ceramics and chemical synthesis.
Product Overview
Stannous fluoride (SnF 2 , CAS 7783-47-3) is an inorganic tin(II) fluoride with a molecular weight of 156.69, supplied as an odorless white crystalline powder with a density of 4.57 g/cm³ and a melting point of about 213°C. It dissolves in water (about 30 g/100 mL at 20°C) and dilute hydrofluoric acid and is slightly soluble in ethanol. As a source of both fluoride and stannous ions, it is widely used in oral care products and in electroplating, glass, ceramics and chemical synthesis.
| CAS No. | 7783-47-3 |
| Molecular Formula | SnF 2 |
| Molecular weight | 156.69 |
| Appearance | White odorless crystalline powder |
| Density | 4.57 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | About 213°C |
| Solubility | Soluble in water (~30 g/100 mL, 20°C) and dilute HF; slightly soluble in ethanol |
| Product Grade | Industrial, cosmetic, pharmaceutical/USP grade |
Key Benefits
- Dual source of fluoride and stannous ions
- Supports caries prevention, plaque control and gingivitis reduction
- Relieves dentin hypersensitivity by blocking dentinal tubules
- Additive in tin electroplating baths
- Opacifying agent and flux for glass and ceramics
Applications
- Oral care — active ingredient in anti-cavity toothpastes, anti-plaque mouth rinses, fluoride gels and desensitizing varnishes; fluoride forms fluorapatite, while stannous ions inhibit plaque bacteria and block dentinal tubules
- Electroplating — tin plating bath additive that improves uniformity, adhesion and electrolyte stability
- Glass and ceramics — opacifying agent and flux in specialty products
- Chemical synthesis — mild fluorinating and reducing agent in inorganic and organic processing
Safety, Packing & Storage
At approved concentrations stannous fluoride has low acute toxicity; excessive ingestion may cause gastrointestinal or fluoride-related effects, and young children should use products under supervision. Keep it tightly sealed and moisture-proof in a cool, dry, ventilated place, separated from oxidizing agents and strong acids, and wear gloves, goggles and a dust mask during handling.
FAQ
Q: What is stannous fluoride used for?
A: Oral care products, tin electroplating, glass and ceramics, and chemical synthesis.
Q: What are its CAS number and molecular formula?
A: CAS 7783-47-3, molecular formula SnF2.
Q: How does it work in toothpaste?
A: Fluoride remineralizes enamel into fluorapatite, while stannous ions reduce plaque bacteria and block sensitive dentinal tubules.
Q: How should it be stored?
A: Tightly sealed and moisture-proof in a cool, dry place, away from oxidizers and strong acids.