Sodium bisulfite is a common reducing agent in the chemical industries. In biochemical engineering applications, it is helpful to maintain anaerobic conditions within a reactor.
The rubber industry uses sodium bisulfite as a coagulative agent. Additionally, the dye industry uses sodium bisulfite as a dechlorination agent and cotton boiling agent for bleached cotton.
Further, the leather industry uses sodium bisulfite to make finished leather products more wearable, waterproof and longer lasting. In addition to its use as a food preservative, the food industry also uses sodium bisulfite as a bleaching agent. Additionally, metal workers use sodium bisulfite to finish metals.
