Product Description:
P-toluenesulfonic acid is a white, hygroscopic crystalline solid used as a catalyst and in organic synthesis.
Applications & Uses:
CAS#:
104-15-4
SYNONYM:
PTSA;Toluene-4-sulfonic acid;4-Toluenesulfonic acid;p-Toluene sulphonic acid
FORMULA:
C7H8O3S
PRODUCT TYPE:
HAZARD:
Corrosive
CATEGORIES:
Acid
,
Strong Acid
,
Organic Intermediate
,
Intermediates
,
Pharmaceutical
Technical Specifications
Appearance :
White crystalline powder
Boiling Point, °C :
140
Density, g/cm3 :
1.24
Flash Point, °C :
85
Melting point, °C :
103-106
Molecular weight, g/mol :
172.20
Odor :
Odorless
P-Toluenesulfonic acid, often abbreviated as PTSA, is an aromatic sulfonic acid with a robust and versatile profile, making it an indispensable component across various industrial and laboratory applications. This white crystalline solid boasts a molecular structure that includes a tolyl group - a methyl-substituted phenyl group - attached to a sulfonic acid functional group, conferring strong acidic properties ideal for catalyzing reactions.
In the realm of organic synthesis, P-toluenesulfonic acid serves as a potent catalyst, effectively promoting esterification, etherification, and polymerization reactions. Its superior solubility in organic solvents accelerates reaction rates without compromising product integrity, making it a preferred choice for high-stakes industrial processes. Furthermore, its role as a para-toluene substituent enhances its effectiveness in stabilizing intermediates, thereby improving overall yield and efficiency.
Beyond synthesis, PTSA plays a critical role in the pharmaceutical industry, where it''s utilized in formulations requiring precise pH adjustments and as a precursor for active pharmaceutical ingredients. In coatings and resins, it facilitates curing and hardening, improving durability and performance.
P-Toluenesulfonic acid''s unique combination of acidity, solubility, and stability makes it a versatile and reliable agent in numerous chemical processes, ensuring high performance in varied applications from catalysis to formulation.