What is arsenic sulfide used for

Arsenic sulfide is the inorganic compound with the formula As2S3. It is a dark yellow solid that is insoluble in water. It is produced in the analysis of arsenic compounds. It is a group V/VI, intrinsic p-type semiconductor and exhibits photo-induced phase-change properties. The other principal arsenic sulfide is As4S4, a red-orange solid known as the mineral realgar.

1. Arsenic trisulfide as an inorganic photoresist

As2S3 has been investigated for use as a high resolution photoresist material since the early 1970s, using aqueous etchants. 

2. Medical applications of arsenic sulfide powder

As2S3 and As4S4 have been investigated as treatments for acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL).

3. For IR-transmitting glasses

Arsenic trisulfide manufactured into amorphous form is used as a chalcogenide glass for infrared optics. It is transparent between 620 nm and 11 µm. The arsenic trisulfide glass is more resistant to oxidation than crystalline arsenic trisulfide, which minimizes toxicity concerns.Arsenic trisulfide was used for the distinctive eight-sided conical nose over the infra-red seeker of the de Havilland Firestreak missile.

Role of arsenic sulfide granules in ancient artistry

The ancient Egyptians reportedly used orpiment, natural or synthetic, as a pigment in artistry and cosmetics.

Miscellaneous arsenic trisulfide is also used as a tanning agent. It was formerly used with indigo dye for the production of pencil blue, which allowed dark blue hues to be added to fabric via pencil or brush.