Natural sulfur. Native sulfur is an indispensable component of health and industrial processes

Sulfur interactions in the body

Sulfur is important for the good permeability of cell membranes, thanks to the participation of this element, the necessary substances penetrate the cell and metabolic products are excreted. With the participation of sulfur, the level of glucose in the blood is stabilized, energy is produced for cell growth and division (due to participation in redox reactions), blood clotting is regulated (as part of heparin).

Sulfur is involved in the synthesis of some vital amino acids - such as:

taurine - is part of the bile and is responsible for emulsifying the fats received with food, tones the heart muscle and lowers blood pressure, promotes the formation of new cells in the brain tissues associated with strengthening memory;
methionine - necessary for the production of phospholipids (lecithin, choline, etc.) and adrenaline, lowers blood cholesterol and improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system, prevents fatty liver, has anti-scarring activity;
cystine - forms disulfide bridges and maintains the structure of proteins, peptides. The biological activity of insulin, hormones oxytocin, vasopressin, somatostatin depends on it. It is needed for the rigidity and stability of keratin;
cysteine is a component of keratins, which are the main structural proteins of nails, hair and skin epidermis, helps to form and arrange collagen fibers, is included in the active core of some digestive enzymes, is considered one of the most powerful antioxidants, especially in the presence of selenium and vitamin C.

Vitamin U (methyl-methionine-sulfonium) is a vitamin substance that is synthesized from the sulfur-containing amino acid methionine. It is characterized as an anti-ulcer factor, as it is responsible for the healing of inflamed mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines. In addition, sulfur takes part in the synthesis of B vitamins in the intestines, in the production of certain hormones. This element is necessary for binding the amino acid chains that form insulin. In the composition of hemoglobin, sulfur contributes to the binding of oxygen and its delivery to tissues and organs.

The benefits of sulfur for the body

The vital interactions of sulfur for the existence of the human body also determine the benefits that this substance brings to us. First of all, it is an element for protection against aggressive free radicals. Thanks to sulfur, the body can slow down the aging process, resist malignant neoplasms, infections, and various diseases. The benefits of sulfur are that it:

supports metabolic processes;
provides elasticity of joints and strength of connective tissue;
reduces muscle and joint pain due to the effect on the nerve endings;
relieves cramps and relieves increased muscle tone;
improves liver function by participating in the synthesis of bile;
promotes binding, neutralization and elimination of toxins;
enhances the activity of vitamins entering the body;
improves skin texture, strengthens hair;
forms cartilaginous tissue, strengthens the muscular frame;
enhances immunity;
regulates the water-salt balance, preventing swelling;
activates blood circulation and metabolism in tissues;
accelerates the healing and restoration of tissues of various organs;
has an anti-allergic effect.

Sulfur increases the body's resistance to infections and its resistance to radio emission, has an anti-inflammatory effect. The restorative and antibacterial properties of sulfur are actively used in the treatment of dermatological diseases, in the treatment of wounds and burns.

A special role is played by earwax, which is produced in the ear canal by the sebaceous and apocrine glands. It contains substances that create an acidic pH environment in the ear, in which fungi and bacteria die. If you often use detergents, scrape the ear canal with cotton swabs, then the acid-base balance will be disturbed, provoking the development of infections. Excessive production of earwax caused by metabolic disorders can contribute to the activation of inflammation. In this case, the sulfur plug retains water and exfoliated epithelium, creating a favorable environment for bacteria and fungi.

Role in the occurrence and course of various diseases

A decrease in sulfur content with age or for other reasons weakens the antioxidant defense of the body, provoking the development of various pathologies, including malignant ones. In acute inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system (pneumonia, bronchitis), a lack of sulfur can worsen the course of the disease, while taking sulfur-containing drugs quickly reduces the manifestations of intoxication and accelerates recovery. Sulfur imbalance can cause the development of osteochondrosis, intervertebral hernias. With the help of sulfur, it is often possible to stop developing scoliosis, reduce the need for insulin in diabetes, reduce pain in bursitis and arthritis, and relieve muscle cramps.

Basic functions in the body

The functions of sulfur in the human body are so wide and important that this substance is classified as life-supporting and is called a macronutrient - since organs and tissues contain about 2 g of sulfur per kilogram of body weight. With age, the level of sulfur content may decrease due to a slowdown in metabolic processes in the body. Sulfur can be found in almost all tissues, but most of it is deposited in the skin, nails and hair, in nerve fibers, bones and muscles. This element enters the body only from the outside - with food, where it is contained in the form of organic compounds (acids, alcohols, esters) and inorganic salts (sulfates, sulfides). Organic compounds are broken down and absorbed in the intestine, inorganic compounds are excreted from the body with stool without absorption. The main part of sulfur residues and its assimilated compounds is excreted by the kidneys, and a little - through the skin and lungs.

One of the most important functions of sulfur in the human body is participation in the synthesis of glutathione. It is an antioxidant amino acid that not only protects cells from destruction by free radicals, but is also responsible for the balance of oxidative and reduction processes within each cell.

Another important function of sulfur is that it helps form disulfide bonds: these are a kind of bridges between structural elements in a protein molecule, thanks to which the molecule retains its shape. The stability of protein molecules is important to ensure the elasticity of the skin and hair, the strength and elasticity of collagen fibers not only in the dermal layer of the skin, but also in the vascular walls and muscle tissue. Sulfur compound - chondroitin sulfate - an essential component of cartilage and ligaments, heart valves. Sulfur is part of melanin, which is responsible for skin pigmentation and its protection from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays.

What foods contain sulfur

Sulfur enters our body with products that contain a lot of protein in the composition of amino acids, sulfatides and other organic compounds. Some legumes are rich in sulfur, there is quite a lot of sulfur in greens and dark green leafy vegetables, because they contain B vitamins, which also contain sulfur.

The presence of sulfur in some foods (in mg per kg of weight)

More than 1000	Fish (sardines, pink salmon, pike, sea bass, flounder). Seafood (lobster, sea crayfish, oysters, crabs). Chicken eggs (yolk)
More than 200	Fish (pollock, carp, herring, capelin). Meat (chicken, turkey, beef, pork, lamb). Legumes (peas, soybeans, beans). Poppy, sesame, sunflower seeds. Quail eggs
50-100	Dairy products (kefir, condensed milk). Cereals (wheat, rye, pearl barley, buckwheat, oatmeal). Nuts (walnuts, almonds, cashews). Macaroni, bread. Onion, garlic
20-50	Milk, hard cheese, ice cream, sour cream. Rice. Vegetables (potatoes, cabbage of various kinds, beets, asparagus). Bananas, pineapples
Less than 20	Fruits (apple, lemon, pear, plum). Berries (cherries, grapes, strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries). Vegetables (carrot, tomato, beetroot, pumpkin)

Foods containing essential oils, such as onions, garlic, horseradish, radishes, mustard, turnips and rutabaga, will help replenish sulfur reserves in the body. Separately, it must be said about cabbage. It contains phytoncides, as well as essential oil vegetables, methionine (a sulfur-containing amino acid) and mineral salts with sulfur, and therefore is considered one of the best products in terms of sulfur absorption and the most affordable food source of this element. Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, Savoy cabbage, kohlrabi and broccoli are rich in gray.

How to save sulfur in food

In order for sulfur to be preserved in the greatest quantity during the culinary processing of products, there are several secrets:

chop the onion or garlic and leave for 10 minutes before using it in cooking - the sulfur in them will become more resistant to heat;
broccoli in a slightly steamed form (3-4 minutes) contains three times more sulfur than after heat treatment;
before cooking, all types of cabbage should be cut into pieces, disassembled into inflorescences or chopped, left for 10 minutes, then lightly stewed or steamed - this will maximize the preservation of sulfur in them;
it is advisable to cook sulfur-containing products without prolonged boiling or stewing.

Roasting at high temperature reduces the sulfur content to a minimum.

Mineral digestibility

The absorption of sulfur deteriorates in the presence of such elements as barium (a lot in seaweed and seafood), arsenic (rice is rich in them). As well as molybdenum (found in legumes and organ meats), selenium (mushrooms, corn, wheat bran), lead (this element accumulates in mushrooms, it is abundant in canned food, root crops).

ADVICE! Sulfur absorption improves in the presence of iron, so it is useful to include foods rich in both of these elements in the menu: for example, buckwheat, peas, chicken and rabbit meat, sea fish, egg yolk, rye bread

Dishes with a lot of fluorine will help increase the absorption of sulfur: sea fish and seafood (oysters), cereals (oatmeal, buckwheat). As well as rye bran, some vegetables (pumpkin, onion), grapefruit, walnuts and honey.

Combination with other nutrients

Getting into the body with food, sulfur helps to improve the permeability of cell membranes, so that nutrients can freely enter the cells. In the presence of sulfur, the absorption of vitamins C and other nutrients with antioxidant properties improves.

Daily rates

Reliable clinical data on how sulfur affects the human body, and at what dose we should receive it daily, is not yet available. Some scientists believe that we need 1.2 g of sulfur daily for the normal functioning of the body, others are sure that it is necessary to receive 4-5 g of the element per day. In any case, a healthy person will feel good, consuming 3-4 g of sulfur every day with food. The required amount of this substance is easy to obtain with a rationally composed menu, which includes meat and fish, cereals and herbs, fruits and vegetables. Vegans and strict protein-free dieters should carefully design their diets and possibly include nutritional supplements so that the body gets enough amino acids and does not experience a sulfur deficiency.

To increase the daily rate of sulfur to 3 g per day is recommended for those who intensively consume amino acids. These are children and adolescents in a period of intensive growth, athletes when gaining muscle mass and during active training, patients with fractures or pathologies in the musculoskeletal system, all people in a period of increased physical exertion or nervous strain. Usually, doctors recommend increasing the amount of protein in the diet, and this is enough to maintain the balance of sulfur. But if necessary, bioactive supplements with thiamine, methionine, biotin and other sulfur-containing components are prescribed.

What happens when a mineral is deficient

The role of sulfur for the human body has not yet been sufficiently studied, and therefore there are no clinical data on how a lack or excess of sulfur affects it and what values \u200b\u200bof this substance are generally considered deficient or excessive for a person.

However, some experimental data have been accumulated, and they indicate that with an insufficient amount of sulfur, the following occurs:

slowdown in cell growth;
deterioration of reproductive functions;
violation of pigment metabolism;
increase in blood sugar;
development of liver diseases (fatty degeneration);
renal hemorrhage.

ADVICE! With dull and brittle hair, exfoliating nails and dry, flabby skin, it is possible that there is not enough sulfur in the body, so it is recommended to introduce additional protein foods, cereals, leafy green vegetables into the daily menu

What factors contribute to the development of sulfur deficiency has not yet been fully elucidated. Scientists suggest that intestinal dysbiosis may be the culprit. In addition, sulfur deficiency can be triggered by an excess of selenium in the body. This element is able to integrate into amino acids instead of sulfur. It should be remembered that sulfur has a low accumulation rate in the body, and it will take from 1 to 6 months to restore the reserves of this macronutrient to the required level. However, the loss of sulfur deposited in tissues and organs also takes about the same time.

Excess sulfur in the body

Excessive accumulation of sulfur has become a subject of special attention of scientists in recent years, since the products that we eat daily are becoming more and more food additives with sulfites (these are E220 and E228) - they extend the shelf life, are used as preservatives and antioxidants. We get a lot of sulfur compounds from mineral fertilizers, which are actively absorbed by vegetables and legumes, get into animal meat through feed and into fish through polluted water. We get the most sulfur from smoked foods, beer, tinted wine, potatoes and other root crops. Excessive intake of sulfur with food does not cause poisoning, however, this element accumulates in the body, and some doctors tend to associate the increased number of patients with bronchial asthma with an increase in the consumption of sulfur compounds.

Excess sulfur can also occur as a toxic condition - if there is too much of it in the body due to the inhalation of particles of the substance or the use of products that have grown on soils with an increased level of sulfur compounds. This condition is manifested by the following symptoms:

the skin itches, a small rash appears, boils often occur;
watery eyes, a feeling of "sand in the eyes", photophobia, corneal defects develop;
concerned about nausea, headache, dizziness and general weakness;
often develop respiratory diseases;
hearing is weakened;
digestion is disturbed, there are problems with the stool;
body weight decreases;
it becomes difficult to remember and concentrate, intellectual abilities decrease.

Inhalation of sulfur dioxide is of particular danger. There are cases when the inhalation of hydrogen sulfide vapors led to instant death due to convulsive compression of the airways and respiratory arrest. Even surviving after sulfur dioxide poisoning, a person can get severe damage to the lungs and gastrointestinal tract, paralysis, mental disorders, and suffering from severe headaches.

The most famous of the medicinal uses of sulfur is balneotherapy, when hydrogen sulfide-rich water from underground sources is used for therapeutic baths. Hydrogen sulfide baths can contain different concentrations of active elements, the essence of their effect is that particles of hydrogen sulfide penetrate the skin into the blood and irritate the nerve endings, stimulating the functioning of organs. Most often, hydrogen sulfide baths are recommended for diseases of the joints, muscles and bones, disorders of the nervous system, for some skin diseases, impaired metabolic processes.

Treatment with sulfur-containing mineral waters is indicated for certain diseases of the digestive system. In this case, we are also talking about irritation of sensitive nerve endings of the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, liver, which causes endocrine and nerve cells to work more actively there, regulating motility and secretory functions.

The property of sulfur to bind and neutralize toxins is taken into account in antiallergic drugs with this substance. Sulfur preparations are recommended for chronic fatigue syndrome and vegetovascular dystonia.

Preparations containing the mineral

Pharmaceutical forms of sulfur preparations may contain different forms of this element - precipitated (for ointments and powders), purified (for oral administration as a laxative and expectorant), colloidal sulfur (which can dissolve in water). They are available in the form of ointments, solutions for lotions, oral forms, solutions for intravenous and intramuscular injections.

Local remedies containing sulfur are effective in the fight against demodex, fungal infections, and pediculosis. Sulfur preparations are able not only to form new epidermal cells, but also to exfoliate old ones due to the keratolytic effect. This property has found application in remedies for freckles and age spots.

When taken orally, sulfur preparations act as a laxative, stimulating peristalsis, and have an antihelminthic effect (especially effective against pinworms).

Intravenous injections of sulfur preparations can be recommended as a non-specific irritant in chronic polyarthritis and sciatica, in acute and chronic poisoning with salts of heavy metals or hydrocyanic acid. Intramuscular injections of a 2% sulfur suspension may be given to increase body temperature (pyrogenic therapy) in progressive paralysis.

Sulfur as a popular cosmetic ingredient

Sulfur has keratolytic and keratoplastic properties. It is part of cysteine, which is responsible for the strength and integrity of the epidermis, but at the same time, it is capable of breaking bonds between keratinocytes in high concentration and causing their exfoliation. By strengthening the epidermal layer, products containing sulfur prevent water loss from the skin and prevent its dryness. In hair keratinocytes, sulfur strengthens disulfide bonds, which makes them smooth and shiny, prevents dehydration and prevents brittleness.

Another important function of sulfur for beauty is the strengthening of connective tissue, the formation of new collagen fibers and the ordering of their location, which makes it possible to achieve firm and elastic skin, a significant reduction in its sagging and smoothing of mimic wrinkles, tightening the face oval and general external rejuvenation. Collagen fibers are part of the vascular walls, and their strengthening, increasing elasticity allows the skin to receive more oxygen and nutrients, which means it has a healthy color and dense texture.

Preparations with sulfur compounds are traditionally used to lighten the skin, reduce the appearance of freckles and age spots. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of sulfur have been used in preparations for the treatment of oily seborrhea and acne. They regulate the secretion of sebum, relieve inflammation, have a resolving effect on deep acne formations and not old scars, including post-acne.

Sulfur compounds sulfites are frequent components of cosmetics with a stabilizing and antibacterial, antifungal effect. Typically, sulfites are included in the composition of hygiene products that do not remain on the skin for a long time and are washed off with water - these are shampoos, shower gels, and facial cleansers. The best known are sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate. They do an excellent job of oil on the skin and hair and are strong preservatives, although they can become irritants for sensitive skin.

The antioxidant properties of sulfur in the composition of cosmetics, especially if they additionally contain vitamin C, can protect the skin and hair from the harmful effects of bad ecology and solar radiation, and slow down the aging process.

Why the human body needs sulfur, what functions it performs, what products it contains, see the video below.

Description and properties of sulfur

Sulfur is a substance that is in group 16, under the third period and has an atomic number - 16. It can occur both in native and in bound form. Sulfur is denoted by the letter S. Known sulfur formula– (Ne)3s 2 3p 4 . Sulfur as an element is part of many proteins.

In the photo, sulfur crystals

If speak about the structure of the atom of the element sulfur, then there are electrons in its outer orbit, the valence number of which reaches six.

This explains the element's property of being maximally hexavalent in most unions. There are four isotopes in the structure of a natural chemical element, and these are 32S, 33S, 34S and 36S. Speaking of the outer electron shell, the atom has a 3s2 3p4 scheme. The radius of an atom is 0.104 nanometers.

Sulfur properties primarily divided into physical type. It refers to the fact that the element has a solid crystalline composition. Two allotropic modifications are the main state in which this sulfur element is stable.

The first modification is rhombic, having a lemon-yellow color. Its stability is lower than 95.6 °C. The second is monoclinic, having a honey-yellow color. Its stability ranges from 95.6 °C and 119.3 °C.

In the photo, the sulfur mineral

During melting, the chemical element becomes a moving liquid that has a yellow color. It turns brown, reaching a temperature of more than 160 ° C. And at 190 °C sulfur color turns to dark brown. After reaching 190 °C, a decrease in the viscosity of the substance is observed, which, however, after heating to 300 °C, becomes fluid.

Other properties of sulfur:

Practically does not conduct heat and electricity.

Does not dissolve when immersed in water.

Soluble in ammonia, which has an anhydrous structure.

It is also soluble in carbon disulfide and other organic solvents.

To characteristics of the element sulfur it is important to add its chemical features. She is active in this regard. If sulfur is heated, it can simply combine with almost any chemical element.

The photo shows a sulfur sample mined in Uzbekistan

Except for inert gases. In contact with metals, chem. the element forms sulfides. Room temperature encourages the element to react with. Increased temperature increases the activity of sulfur.

Consider how the behavior of sulfur with individual substances:

With metals - is an oxidizing agent. Forms sulfides.

With hydrogen - at high temperatures - up to 200 ° C, an active interaction occurs.

With oxygen. Combinations of oxides are formed at temperatures up to 280 °C.

With phosphorus, carbon - is an oxidizing agent. Only in the absence of air during the reaction.

With fluorine - manifests itself as a reducing agent.

With substances having a complex structure - also as a reducing agent.

Deposits and extraction of sulfur

The main source for obtaining sulfur is its deposits. In general, there are 1.4 billion tons of reserves of this substance all over the world. It is mined both by open and underground mining methods, and by smelting from underground.

In the photo, sulfur mining in the Kawa Ijen volcano

If the latter case applies, then water is used, which is superheated and sulfur is melted with it. In poor ores, the element is contained in approximately 12%. The rich - 25% or more.

Common types of deposits:

Stratiform - up to 60%.

Salt dome - up to 35%.

Volcanogenic - up to 5%.

The first type is associated with strata bearing the name sulfate-carbonate. At the same time, ore bodies that have a thickness of up to several tens of meters and with a size of up to hundreds of meters are located in sulfate rocks.

Also, these reservoir deposits can be found among rocks of sulfate and carbonate origin. The second type is characterized by gray deposits, which are confined to salt domes.

The latter type is associated with volcanoes that have a young and modern structure. In this case, the ore element has a sheet-like, lenticular shape. It may contain sulfur in the amount of 40%. This type of deposit is common in the Pacific volcanic belt.

Sulfur deposit in Eurasia is located in Turkmenistan, in the Volga region and other places. Sulfur rocks are found near the left banks of the Volga, which stretch from Samara. The width of the rock band reaches several kilometers. At the same time, they can be found right up to Kazan.

In the photo, sulfur in the rock

In Texas and Louisiana, huge amounts of sulfur are found in the roofs of salt domes. Especially beautiful Italians of this element are found in Romagna and Sicily. And on the island of Vulcano they find monoclinic sulfur. An element that was oxidized with pyrite was found in the Urals in the Chelyabinsk region.

For prey chemical element sulfur use different methods. It all depends on the condition of its occurrence. At the same time, of course, special attention is paid to safety.

Since hydrogen sulfide accumulates along with sulfur ore, it is necessary to take any method of extraction very seriously, because this gas is poisonous to humans. Sulfur also tends to ignite.

Most often they use the open method. So with the help of excavators, significant parts of the rocks are removed. Then, with the help of explosions, the ore part is crushed. Lumps are sent to the factory for enrichment. Then - to the sulfur smelting plant, where sulfur is obtained from the concentrate.

The photo shows sulfur in the port, brought by sea

In the case of deep sulfur deposits in many volumes, the Frasch method is used. Sulfur melts while still underground. Then, like oil, it is pumped out through a punched well. This approach is based on the fact that the element melts easily and has a low density.

Also known is a method of separation in centrifuges. Only this method has a drawback: sulfur is obtained with impurities. And then it is necessary to carry out its additional cleaning.

In some cases, the borehole method is used. Other opportunities for mining sulfur element:

Steam water.

Filtration.

Thermal.

Centrifugal.

Extractive.

Sulfur application

Most of the sulfur that is mined goes to make sulfuric acid. And the role of this substance is very huge in chemical production. It is noteworthy that to obtain 1 ton of sulfur matter, 300 kg of sulfur are needed.

Bengal lights, which glow brightly and have many dyes, are also made using sulfur. The paper industry is another area where a significant part of the mined substance goes.

In the photo, sulfuric ointment

Often sulfur application finds when meeting production needs. Here are some of them:

Use in chemical production.

For the manufacture of sulfites, sulfates.

Manufacture of substances for plant fertilizers.

To get non-ferrous types of metals.

To give steel additional properties.

For the manufacture of matches, materials for explosions and pyrotechnics.

Paints, fibers from artificial materials - are made using this element.

For fabric bleaching.

In some cases sulfur element included in ointments that treat skin diseases.

Sulfur price

According to the latest news, the need for sulfur is actively growing. The cost of a Russian product is $130. For the Canadian version - $ 145. But in the Middle East, prices have risen to $8, resulting in a cost of $149.

The photo shows a large specimen of the sulfur mineral

In pharmacies, you can find sulfur in powdered hammer at a price of 10 to 30 rubles. In addition, it is possible to buy it in bulk. Some organizations offer at a low price to purchase granular technical gas sulfur.

Sulfur (= Sulphur) (S)

For a person - a "mineral of beauty".

In animals and humans sulfur performs irreplaceable functions: it provides the spatial organization of protein molecules necessary for their functioning, protects cells, tissues and pathways of biochemical synthesis from oxidation, and the entire body from the toxic effects of foreign substances.

The daily requirement of the human body- 0.5-3 g (according to other sources - 4-5 g).

Sulfur enters the body with food, as part of inorganic and organic compounds. Most of the sulfur enters the body in the composition of amino acids.
Inorganic sulfur compounds (salts of sulfuric and sulfurous acids) are not absorbed and are excreted from the body with feces. Organic protein compounds are cleaved and absorbed in the intestine.

The sulfur content in the body of an adult is about 0.16% (110 g per 70 kg of body weight). Sulfur is found in all tissues of the human body, especially a lot of it in the muscles, skeleton, liver, nervous tissue, blood. The superficial layers of the skin are also rich in sulfur, where sulfur is part of keratin and melanin.
In tissues, sulfur is found in a wide variety of forms - both inorganic (sulfates, sulfites, sulfides, thiocyanates, etc.) and organic (thiols, thioethers, sulfonic acids, thiourea, etc.). In the form of sulfate anion, sulfur is present in body fluids. Sulfur atoms are an integral part of the molecules of essential amino acids (cystine, cysteine, methionine), hormones (insulin, calcitonin), vitamins (biotin, thiamine), glutathione, taurine and other compounds important for the body. In their composition, sulfur is involved in redox reactions, tissue respiration, energy production, transfer of genetic information, and performs many other important functions.
Sulfur is a component of the structural protein of collagen. Chondroitin sulfate is present in the skin, cartilage, nails, ligaments and myocardial valves. Important sulfur-containing metabolites are also hemoglobin, heparin, cytochromes, fibrinogen and sulfolipids.

Sulfur is excreted mainly in the urine as neutral sulfur and inorganic sulfates, a smaller part of sulfur is excreted through the skin and lungs, and is excreted mainly in the urine as SO 4 2–.
Endogenous sulfuric acid formed in the body takes part in the neutralization of toxic compounds (phenol, indole, etc.) that are produced by the intestinal microflora, and also binds substances foreign to the body, including drugs and their metabolites. In this case, harmless compounds are formed - conjugates, which are then excreted from the body.
Sulfur metabolism is controlled by those factors that also have a regulatory effect on protein metabolism (hormones of the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, gonads).

Biological role in the human body. In the human body, sulfur is an indispensable component of cells, enzymes, hormones, in particular insulin, which is produced by the pancreas, and sulfur-containing amino acids (methionine, cysteine, taurine and glutathione).
Sulfur is a part of biologically active substances (histamine, biotin, lipoic acid, etc.). The composition of the active centers of the molecules of a number of enzymes includes SH-groups that take part in many enzymatic reactions, in particular, in the creation and stabilization of the native three-dimensional structure of proteins, and in some cases act directly as catalytic centers of enzymes, they are part of various coenzymes, including coenzyme A.
Sulfur is part of hemoglobin, found in all tissues of the body, is necessary for the synthesis of collagen - a protein that determines the structure of the skin.
In the cell, sulfur provides such a delicate and complex process as energy transfer: it transfers electrons by accepting one of the unpaired oxygen electrons into a free orbital. Sulfur is involved in the fixation and transport of methyl groups.

Sulfur disinfects the blood increases the body's resistance to bacteria and protects the protoplasm of cells, promotes the implementation of oxidative reactions necessary for the body, enhances the secretion of bile, protects against the harmful effects of toxic substances, protects the body from the harmful effects of radiation and environmental pollution, thereby slowing down the aging process. This explains the high need of the body for this element.

Signs of sulfur deficiency: constipation, allergies, dullness and hair loss, brittle nails, high blood pressure, joint pain, tachycardia, high sugar and high blood triglycerides.

In advanced cases - fatty degeneration of the liver, hemorrhages in the kidneys, disorders of protein and carbohydrate metabolism, overexcitation of the nervous system, irritability.
Sulfur deficiency in the body does not happen often, since most foods contain enough of it.

In recent decades, one of the sources excess intake of sulfur in the human body steel sulfur-containing compounds ( sulfites ), which are added to many foods, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages as preservatives . Especially a lot of sulfites in smoked meats, potatoes, fresh vegetables, beer, cider, ready-made salads, vinegar, wine dyes. It is possible that sulfite consumption, which is constantly increasing, is partly to blame for the increase in the incidence bronchial asthma . It is known, for example, that 10% of patients with bronchial asthma are hypersensitive to sulfites (i.e. sensitized to them). To reduce the negative impact of sulfites on the body, it is recommended to increase the content of cheeses, eggs, fatty meat, and poultry in the diet.

The main manifestations of excess sulfur in the body: itching, rash, furunculosis, redness and swelling of the conjunctiva; the appearance of small point defects on the cornea; aches in the eyebrows and eyeballs, a feeling of sand in the eyes; photophobia, lacrimation, general weakness, headaches, dizziness, nausea, catarrh of the upper respiratory tract, bronchitis; hearing loss, indigestion, diarrhea, weight loss; anemia, mental disorders, decreased intelligence.

Food sources of sulfur: vegetables:

Sulfur - S. The most stable α-modification of sulfur at room temperature is usually called rhombic sulfur or simply sulfur.

Chemical composition. In a number of cases, chemically pure sulfur is established, but usually contaminated with foreign mechanical impurities: clay or organic matter, oil droplets, gases, etc. also Te, sometimes As, and exceptionally Tl.

Syngony rhombic. Crystal structure. According to X-ray studies, rhombic sulfur has a molecular lattice, rare for inorganic compounds, and, moreover, very complex. In the crystal structure, each sulfur atom has spheres on both sides that intersect with the spheres of neighboring atoms, and the chains consisting of 8 atoms are closed.

Hence the sulfur molecule S 8 . The unit cell is composed of 16 such electrically neutral molecules (rings), very weakly connected to each other by a van der Waals bond. Crystal Shape. Crystals often have a pyramidal or truncated pyramidal appearance. Aggregates. Often found in solid, sometimes earthy masses. Occasionally, sinter kidney-shaped forms and raids are observed (in areas of volcanic eruptions).

Colour. In α-sulfur, various shades of yellow are observed: straw yellow, honey yellow, yellowish gray, brown and black (from carbonaceous impurities). Features almost does not give, the powder is slightly yellowish. Shine diamond on the edges, bold in the break. Shines through in crystals. Hardness 1-2. Fragile. Cleavage imperfect. Specific gravity 2,05-2,08. Other properties. Electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity are very weak (good insulator). When rubbed, it is charged with negative electricity. It cracks from the warmth of the hand.

Diagnostic features. Characteristic color, low hardness, brittleness, oily sheen in the fracture of crystals and fusibility. P. p. tr. and from a match easily melts (at 112.8 ° C) and ignites with a blue flame with the release of a characteristic smell of SO 2.

Native sulfur is the only mineral among the considered in the class of native elements that has the molecular structure of a substance. S is characterized by very special properties. The presence of electrically neutral S 8 molecules in the lattice as structural units explains such properties as poor electrical conductivity, low thermal conductivity, and weak bonding between molecules.

Origin. Native sulfur is found exclusively in the uppermost part of the earth's crust and on its surface. Formed in various ways:

During volcanic eruptions, settling in the form of sublimates on the walls of craters, in rock crevices, sometimes pouring out in liquid form with hot water in the form of streams (Japan). Occurs as a result of incomplete oxidation of hydrogen sulfide H 2 S in solfatars or as a reaction product of H 2 S with sulfur dioxide: 2H 2 S + 20 = 2H 2 O + 2S; H 2 S + SO 2 \u003d H 2 O + O + 2S;

Solfatars(Italian, singular solfatara, from solfo - sulfur), jets of sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide mixed with water vapor, carbon dioxide and other gases released from channels and cracks on the walls and bottom of the crater, on the slopes of volcanoes.

During the decomposition of sulfur compounds of metals, mainly pyrite, in the lower parts of the oxidation zone of ore deposits. Usually heavily contaminated with various mechanical impurities;

During the decomposition of gypsum-bearing sedimentary strata. Paragenesis of native sulfur with gypsum is often observed, in the corroded areas of which it is formed in the form of crystalline and powdery masses;

Sedimentary (biochemical) way in sedimentary rocks, represented by layers containing gypsum, solid and liquid bitumen (asphalt, oil), etc. This type of deposits is widespread on the globe and is of great industrial importance. The origin of sulfur is biochemically associated with the vital activity of anaerobic bacteria, resulting in the formation of hydrogen sulfide, the incomplete oxidation of which leads to the precipitation of sulfur.

Application. The main amount of sulfur is spent on the production of sulfuric acid, which is used in many industries; then in agriculture (for pest control); in rubber production (rubber vulcanization process); in the manufacture of matches, fireworks, paints, etc.

Diamond

Diamond - S. The name comes from the Greek word "adamas" - irresistible (obviously, it means the highest hardness and resistance to physical and chemical agents). Proper name of the sample - "Gornyak"

Varieties:

-board- irregularly shaped splices and spherical radiant aggregates;

-carbonado- fine-grained porous aggregates, painted with amorphous graphite and foreign impurities in a brownish-black color.

Chemical composition. Colorless varieties are composed of pure carbon. Colored and opaque varieties in the fireproof residue, sometimes reaching several percent, detect SiO 2, MgO, CaO, FeO, Fe 2 O 3, A1 2 O 3, TiO 2, etc. Graphite and some other minerals are often observed in the form of inclusions in diamonds .

The crystal lattice of diamond. A - image of the centers of atoms; B - the same lattice in the form of tetrahedra, the vertices and centers of which are the centers of carbon atoms

Syngony cubic. Crystal Shape octahedral, less common dodecahedral, rarely cubic and occasionally tetrahedral. Crystal faces are often represented by convex and uneven, sometimes corroded surfaces. Intergrowth twins are observed. The sizes of individual crystals vary from the smallest to very large, weighing several hundred and even thousands of carats (metric carat = 0.2 g). The largest crystals weighed (in carats): "Collinan" - 3025, "Excelsior" - 969.5, "Victoria" - 457, "Orlov" - 199.6.

Colour. Colorless water-transparent or colored in blue, blue, yellow, brown and black. Shine strong diamond. Hardness 10. Absolute hardness is 1000 times higher than the hardness of quartz and 150 times that of corundum. fragile. Cleavage average. Density 3,47-3,56. Electrical conductivity weak.

Diagnostic features . Diamond is the only mineral in its exceptional hardness. A strong diamond brilliance and often curved crystal faces are also characteristic. Small grains in concentrates are easily recognized by luminescence, which is sharply manifested in ultraviolet rays. Luminescence colors are usually bluish-blue, sometimes green.

Origin. Primary deposits are genetically related to ultramafic deep igneous rocks: peridotites, kimberlites etc. In these rocks, diamond crystallization obviously occurs at great depths under conditions of high temperatures and pressure. Judging by the forms and conditions of occurrence, diamond was one of the first to crystallize in magmas. It is not clear whether the diamond crystallized from the carbon of the magma itself or from carbon assimilated from the surrounding rocks. In associations with diamond, there are: graphite, olivine - (Mg, Fe) 2 SiO 4, chrome spinels - (Fe, Mg) (Cr, Al, Fe) 2 O 4, magnetite - FeFe 2 O 4, hematite - Fe 2 O 3 and etc.

Placer deposits of diamond, stable in exogenous conditions, are formed due to the destruction and erosion of diamond-bearing rocks.

Kimberlite(from the name of the city of Kimberley in South Africa), an igneous ultrabasic brecciated rock of an effusive appearance, performing kimberlite pipes explosion.

Kimberlite pipe - a vertical or near-vertical geological body formed by the breakthrough of gases through the earth's crust. The kimberlite pipe is filled with kimberlite.

Application. Completely transparent diamonds are used in jewelry as precious stones (diamonds). For technical purposes, small diamonds are used, as well as bead and carbonado. These varieties are used in metalworking, stoneworking, abrasive and other industries.

Graphite

Graphite - S. The name comes from the Greek word "grafo" - I write. Varieties:

Graphite - cryptocrystalline difference;

Shungite is an amorphous variety formed as a result of natural coking of coals.

Chemical composition graphite is rarely pure. In significant quantities (up to 10-20%), ash is often present, consisting of various components (SiO 2, Al 2 O 3, FeO, MgO, CaO, P 2 O 5 , CuO, etc.), sometimes water, bitumen and gases (up to 2%).

Syngony hexagonal. Crystal structure in comparison with diamond is shown in the figure. Differences in the physical properties of diamond and graphite are due to the difference in the structure of the crystal lattices of these minerals. Carbon ions in graphite lie in sheets represented by flat hexagonal grids.

The location of the centers of atoms in diamond (A) and in graphite (B)

Crystal Shape. Well-formed crystals are extremely rare. They look like hexagonal plates or tablets, sometimes with triangular strokes on the edge. Aggregates often finely scaly. Rough or fibrous masses are less common. Colour iron-black to steel-gray graphite. trait black shiny. Shine strong metallic; cryptocrystalline aggregates matte. In the thinnest leaves, it is translucent in gray. Hardness 1. Flexible in thin sheets. Fat to the touch. Smudges paper and fingers. Cleavage perfect. Specific gravity 2.09-2.23 (varies depending on the degree of dispersion and the presence of the finest pores), for shungite 1.84-1.98. Other properties. It has a high electrical conductivity, which is due to the very dense packing of atoms in the sheets.

Diagnostic features . Easily recognizable by color, low hardness and oiliness to the touch. It differs from similar molybdenite (MoS 2) by its darker iron-black color and weaker luster.

P. p. tr. does not melt. When heated in a jet of oxygen, it burns more difficult than diamond. It evaporates without melting, only in the flame of a voltaic arc. Does not dissolve in acids. The powder mixed with KNO 3 gives a flash when heated.

Origin. In nature, graphite is formed during reduction processes at high temperatures.

Metamorphic deposits of graphite are widespread, which arose due to coal or bituminous deposits under conditions of regional metamorphism or under the influence of magma intrusions.

It is sometimes found among igneous rocks of various compositions. The source of carbon in many cases is host carbonaceous rocks.

Cases of finds of graphite in pegmatites are known. There are deposits at the contacts of limestones with igneous rocks in the provinces of Ontario and Quebec in Canada, as well as vein deposits of coarse graphite, for example, on about. Ceylon.

Application. Graphite is used for a variety of types of production: for the manufacture of graphite crucibles, in foundry; production of pencils; electrodes; for lubrication of rubbing parts; in the paint industry, etc.

Group of "semimetals"

This group, in addition to arsenic, includes antimony and bismuth, i.e., elements of large periods of group V of the periodic table. All of them under natural conditions, although rare, are observed in the native state, crystallizing in one (trigonal) syngony and forming the same type of crystal lattices. Despite this, the elements of the semimetal group do not occur together and do not give in nature either solid solutions or definite compounds. The exceptions are arsenic and antimony, which at high temperatures form solid solutions in all proportions, and at low temperatures only the stable intermetallic compound AsSb (alemontite).

Intermetallic compounds- chemical compounds of metals with each other.

Sulfur is an element of the 16th group (according to the outdated classification - the main subgroup of group VI), the third period of the periodic system of chemical elements of D. I. Mendeleev, with atomic number 16.

Sulfur exhibits non-metallic properties. It is designated by the symbol S (Latin sulfur). In hydrogen and oxygen compounds, it is part of various ions, forms many acids and salts. Many sulfur-containing salts are sparingly soluble in water.

Sulfur is the sixteenth most abundant element in the earth's crust. It occurs in the free (native) state and bound form.

The most important natural sulfur compounds: FeS2 - iron pyrite or pyrite, ZnS - zinc blende or sphalerite (wurtzite), PbS - lead gloss or galena, HgS - cinnabar, Sb2S3 - antimonite. In addition, sulfur is present in oil, natural coal, natural gases and shale.

Sulfur is the sixth element in natural waters, occurs mainly in the form of sulfate ion and causes the "permanent" hardness of fresh water.

Sulfur - a vital element for higher organisms, an integral part of many proteins, is concentrated in the hair.

Of greatest interest is native Sulfur - a beautiful mineral, most often of a bright yellow color, often forming well-faceted forms.

Native sulfur is opaque to transparent (rare). In a transparent form, it can have a high play of color - dispersion (however, this is typical only for samples from Samara).

Occasionally, sulfur is cut for collectors. Material from two deposits is suitable for this: from near Samara and from Sicily. Cutting transparent sulfur crystals is the most difficult test to test a cutter's art, because sulfur is so brittle and sensitive to heat that the heat of the fingers is enough to cause the crystal to crack.

Sulfur samples should be stored in a dry place.

The best sulfur in the world is from near Samara. It is significantly inferior to sulfur from Sicily (Italy). Reddish, pinkish or orange-pink crystals with small transparent areas suitable for cutting stones of several carats are also found on Mount Saint-Hilaire (Quebec, Canada). Apparently, Samara sulfur is the most transparent in the world.

In the CIS, native sulfur is found in Ukraine and Turkmenistan.

The magical properties of sulfur

According to psychologists and bioenergetics, this is the color of optimism and constructiveness, it gives rest and promotes positive emotions.

Ancient man was well acquainted with sinter and massive sulfur formations near active volcanoes (this is the result of volcanic sublimations - emanation).

He very willingly settled near volcanoes, since the soil here is especially fertile. Since ancient times, the volcano itself was considered the threshold of hell, as well as the products of its eruption - its derivatives.

Therefore, sulfur was widely used in ancient times by spellcasters, fortune-tellers and soothsayers who wish to call "to talk" otherworldly forces, the forces of evil and hell.

Alchemists needed sulfur for their experiments, and doctors also needed it.

The healing properties of sulfur

She made black hair white, ink silver, "softened the human nature and caused a blush on his face", warmed the body, helped with toothache and furunculosis, asthma and ulcers on the head.

Even Aristotle said that sulfur helps with epilepsy (causes the patient to sneeze), stroke and migraine, if you drop it into the nose.

Sulfur fumigation was used to treat colds, lung diseases and chronic coughs, headaches and hemorrhoids.

Signs of sulfur deficiency: constipation, allergies, dullness and hair loss, brittle nails, high blood pressure, joint pain, tachycardia, high blood sugar and high blood triglycerides. Fatty degeneration of the liver, hemorrhages - in the kidneys, disorders of protein and carbohydrate metabolism, overexcitation of the nervous system, irritability. Sulfur is the mineral that makes garlic the "king of plants".

Sulfur atoms are an integral part of the molecules of essential amino acids (cystine, cysteine, methionine), hormones (insulin, calcitonin), vitamins (biotin, thiamine), glutathione, taurine and other compounds important for the body. In their composition, sulfur is involved in redox reactions, tissue respiration, energy production, transfer of genetic information, and performs many other important functions. Sulfur is a component of the structural protein of collagen. Chondroitin sulfate is present in the skin, cartilage, nails, ligaments and myocardial valves. Sulfur-containing metabolites are hemoglobin, heparin, cytochromes, fibrinogen and sulfolipids.