L-Lysine Sulphate: Properties, Structure, and Industrial Relevance

What Is L-Lysine Sulphate?

L-Lysine Sulphate stands out in the world of amino acid supplements thanks to its unique molecular makeup and diverse applications in animal nutrition, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. Its chemical formula is C6H14N2O2•H2SO4, which means each molecule links the essential amino acid lysine to a sulphate group, forming a complex with reliable stability and solubility. People in chemical labs and on feed mill floors alike have found that the granular, powder, or crystalline forms of this ingredient fit well into feed mixes or nutrient solutions. The HS Code for L-Lysine Sulphate, typically 29224110, enables international trade and regulatory traceability, which matters if you’re involved in sourcing or logistics.

Properties and Structure

The molecular weight of L-Lysine Sulphate hovers around 242.27 g/mol, depending on hydration levels. At room temperature, it presents as a fine, nearly white to slightly yellowish powder, sometimes appearing as small crystals or as dense, pearl-like flakes—each identifying characteristic depends on the production route and the conditions in storage and transport. The density averages near 0.6-0.8 g/cm³ in powder form, giving it a solid bulk for handling. It dissolves quickly in water, forming transparent solutions that mix smoothly into animal feed, mineral blends, and laboratory solutions. Unlike pure lysine hydrochloride, the sulphate version contains more organic matter, retaining a higher content of crude protein, often above 50%.

Specifications and Chemical Safety

L-Lysine Sulphate must meet quality criteria for purity, heavy metals, and microbial content based on destination market rules. Purity ranges from 65% to 70% L-lysine calculated on a dry basis, while sulphate content and moisture must remain within set ranges. Low levels of arsenic, lead, and mercury are critical, as animal safety and food chain health depend on stringent raw material monitoring. Chemically stable under standard transport or warehouse storage conditions, it resists caking and oxidation if protected from excess moisture. For those working around large silos or packaging lines, dust levels need managing—high concentrations could irritate the lungs or eyes, so wearing a mask and following the SDS matters.

Forms: Flakes, Crystals, Solid, Pearls, Powder, Liquid

Industry players deal with L-Lysine Sulphate mostly in solid, free-flowing powder or fine granular crystals. Large bulk shipments often arrive as dense flakes or compressed pearls, maximizing storage capacity and flow through automated feeders. For special applications like nutrient solutions in hydroponics or research labs, dissolved stock solutions get prepared near the point of use. Quality control teams use tools like titration and HPLC to confirm grade, composition, and absence of harmful contaminants. In hot, humid regions, some stakeholders use anti-caking agents or special packaging, choosing triple-ply woven poly bags or lined fiber drums to protect from moisture pick-up and product breakdown.

Handling, Material Safety, and Hazards

Working with L-Lysine Sulphate calls for good ventilation, eye protection, and gloves in industrial zones. Skin or eye contact rarely leads to anything more than mild, short-term irritation, but inhaling too much dust can cause coughing or throat irritation—risk grows with poor dust management in busy blending areas. Not classified under most regulations as toxic or highly dangerous, the compound still matters for hazard awareness: spills mean not just product loss but also a potential slip hazard or dust explosion source in certain enclosed spaces. Always consult the local and international chemical safety datasheets and respect storage limits concerning temperature and humidity.

Sourcing and Raw Materials

Producing L-Lysine Sulphate on an industrial scale takes high-purity lysine from fermentation, using glucose or molasses as a base feedstock. The blend undergoes crystallization or spray-drying and gets neutralized with sulphuric acid—the byproduct profile matters for environmental safety and downstream waste management. The supply chain links fermenter output, chemical processing, blending, and global shipping, creating a material footprint seen from factory floor to farm gate. Supply depends on reliable sources of quality agricultural feedstocks, as fermentation efficiency tracks seasonal moisture, temperature, and substrate purity. That throws a wrench for procurement teams any time agriculture hits a supply hiccup or freight rates shift.

Solutions: Delivering Safe, Reliable L-Lysine Sulphate

Good working relationships with certified manufacturers and adherence to global standards support dependable sourcing and predictable product quality. Trace residue analysis, regular training for plant workers, and ongoing supplier audits help maintain safe, contaminant-free output. In animal feed, gradual mixing assures each animal gets the right protein and amino acid load. For those upstream in procurement, tracking global trends in sugar, energy, and fertilizer markets becomes a daily task, given how these impact raw lysine costs and final L-Lysine Sulphate pricing. Automation, improved lab analytics, and stronger cross-border regulatory engagement deliver safer, more transparent amino acid ingredients that a modern, health-conscious world demands.