Africa’s growing need for high-performance industrial chemicals demands expertise, consistency, and scale. Among the most critical chemicals used across sectors, including mining, water treatment, pulp and paper, and food processing, is Sodium Metabisulfite (SMBS). Whether as a fine white powder or a 40% aqueous solution, commonly referred to as SMBS bleaching liquor, this compound plays a key role in several industrial applications.
Chemtoll stands as a leader in the manufacturing and distribution of SMBS products, with capabilities that extend beyond production to packaging, logistics, and formulation customisation. From bulk shipments to tailored supply formats, Chemtoll supports its clients throughout Africa by being more than just a supplier—it is a strategic chemical partner.
What is SMBS?
Sodium Metabisulfite Defined
Sodium Metabisulfite (Na₂S₂O₅) is a white, crystalline or powdery chemical compound with powerful reducing properties. It is widely used for its antioxidant, preservative, and bleaching capabilities. It reacts with water to release sulfur dioxide (SO₂), which imparts its primary industrial function—removing oxygen, deactivating microbes, and breaking down colourants.
Two Forms, Endless Applications
SMBS Powder
In its pure powder form, Sodium Metabisulfite is most commonly used in:
- Food processing – as a preservative and antioxidant
- Water treatment – to dechlorinate water
- Mining – as a flotation reagent or cyanide detoxifier
- Pulp and paper – for bleaching and neutralising excess chlorine
- Pharmaceuticals – in formulations requiring oxygen scavenging
SMBS Bleaching Liquor (40%)
The 40% SMBS bleaching liquor is a ready-to-use liquid formulation designed for industries that prefer or require a pre-dissolved solution. It is especially effective in:
- Textile bleaching and dye removal
- Pulp and paper mills
- Effluent treatment plants (ETPs)
- Surface cleaning and sanitisation in large-scale operations
This liquid format eliminates the need for on-site dilution, reduces dust hazards, and allows for more consistent application in high-volume processing environments.
Chemtoll: Africa’s Expert in Sodium Metabisulfite Production
Built for Bulk Manufacturing
Chemtoll’s chemical production facilities are equipped to manufacture large quantities of SMBS powder and SMBS bleaching liquor to exact specifications. With sophisticated reaction vessels, drying systems, and blending lines, Chemtoll ensures the purity, concentration, and stability of each batch produced.
Key Manufacturing Features:
- High-output SMBS reactors
- Customisable concentrations
- Controlled drying and powder handling
- Liquid blending capabilities for 40% SMBS solutions
- In-house QC lab for batch testing and analysis
Customisation and Flexibility
Tailored to Your Industry
Not every client’s SMBS requirements are the same. Chemtoll works with buyers to understand their specific needs, adjusting concentration, packaging format, and even delivery cadence based on operational demands.
Examples include:
- 25 kg paper bags or poly-lined drums for SMBS powder
- IBCs, drums, or bulk tanker loads for SMBS bleaching liquor
- Private-label packaging with branding as required
From Factory to Facility: Chemtoll Delivers
Chemtoll understands that manufacturing is only half the job. For your operation to run smoothly, chemicals must arrive on time, in the right format, and with no compromise on quality. That’s why Chemtoll offers a full delivery and distribution service across South Africa and into neighbouring African countries.
Reliable Delivery Options:
- Bulk road tankers
- IBC and drum distribution
- Palletised dry goods
- Scheduled replenishment programmes
As a result, industries from Johannesburg to Windhoek, Lusaka, and beyond trust Chemtoll for consistent, high-volume chemical supply.
SMBS for Africa’s Leading Industries
SMBS in Mining
As an agent for detoxifying cyanide and preventing oxidation, SMBS plays a critical role in Africa’s mining operations. Chemtoll supplies both dry and liquid Sodium Metabisulfite products to gold mines, mineral processing plants, and metal refining sites across the continent.
SMBS in Water Treatment
Municipal water treatment facilities and industrial wastewater plants use SMBS bleaching liquor to neutralise chlorine and remove contaminants from effluent streams. The liquid format ensures faster, safer application and more predictable dosing.
SMBS in Pulp and Paper
Used for bleaching pulp and removing ink or dye residues, SMBS is a cornerstone chemical in the production of high-quality paper products. Chemtoll’s ability to deliver SMBS in both powder and liquid forms ensures flexibility for these manufacturers.
Why International Buyers Trust Chemtoll
As industries across Europe and Asia look to source from Africa, Chemtoll has become a key partner for bulk chemical manufacturing and export. With full compliance to international safety, documentation, and shipping standards, Chemtoll delivers Sodium Metabisulfite and other chemical products to clients seeking:
- Lower production costs
- Proximity to end markets
- Reliable African-based partners
- Transparent traceability from factory to freight
Environmental and Safety Standards
Chemtoll is committed to responsible manufacturing. SMBS production involves handling sulfur-based materials, and Chemtoll ensures all operations are conducted with full adherence to:
- ISO-compliant safety protocols
- Proper ventilation and waste management systems
- Worker PPE and exposure controls
- Eco-conscious wastewater treatment
Partnering with Chemtoll: Benefits at a Glance
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Bulk capacity | Meet high-volume demand with ease |
| Dual-format production | Choose powder or bleaching liquor |
| Custom formulations | Get the exact product you need |
| Branded packaging | Maintain customer-facing identity |
| Cross-border delivery | Secure supply wherever you are in Africa |
Conclusion: Your Chemical Partner in Africa
Whether you’re a local operation requiring Sodium Metabisulfite in drums or an international manufacturer looking for a scalable supply of SMBS bleaching liquor, Chemtoll is your trusted production partner. With state-of-the-art facilities, regional delivery networks, and a customer-first approach, Chemtoll sets the standard for chemical manufacturing in Africa.
For top-quality SMBS, reliable delivery, and expert support, Chemtoll is more than a supplier—it’s your African chemical partner.
