5107. Isethionic Acid

Nomenclature

CAS number: 107-36-8
2-Hydroxyethanesulfonic acid; hydroxyethylsulfonic acid.
C2H6O4S; mol wt 126.13.
C 19.04%, H 4.79%, O 50.74%, S 25.42%.
HOCH2CH2SO3H.

Description and references

Obtained by heating ethylene, chlorosulfonic acid, and water: Klason, J. Prakt. Chem. [2] 19, 234 (1879); from ether and SO3: Hubner, Ann. 223, 198 (1884); from ethylenesulfite + NaHCO3: Smith, US 2899461 (1959 to Dow).

Properties

Colorless, syrupy, strongly acid liquid. Kept over H2SO4, it solidifies to a very hygroscopic, cryst mass. Miscible with water, alc. Forms readily cryst salts with organic bases.

Caution

Irritating to skin, mucous membranes.