Chloramine-T
[CAS# 127-65-1]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Synthetic anti-infective drugs >> Disinfectant antiseptic
• Name: Chloramine-T
• Synonyms: Tosylchloramide sodium; N-Chloro-4-toluenesulfonamide sodium salt
• Molecular Formula: C₇H₇ClNNaO₂S.3(H₂O)
• Molecular Weight: 281.69
• CAS Registry Number: 127-65-1
• EC Number: 204-854-7
• SMILES: CC1=CC=C(C=C1)S(=O)(=O)[N-]Cl.[Na+]

Properties

• Melting point: 167-170 °C (Expl.)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS08;GHS05;GHS07 Danger
• Risk Statements: H302-H314-H317-H318-H334
• Safety Statements: P233-P260-P261-P264-P264+P265-P270-P271-P272-P280-P284-P301+P317-P301+P330+P331-P302+P352-P302+P361+P354-P304+P340-P305+P354+P338-P316-P317-P321-P330-P333+P317-P342+P316-P362+P364-P363-P403-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Respiratory sensitization	Resp. Sens.	1	H334
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1B	H314
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411

Discovery and Applications

Chloramine-T is a chemical compound with a wide range of applications in various fields, including water treatment, medicine, and analytical chemistry. It was first synthesized in the early 20th century as a safer alternative to chlorine. Its primary use as a disinfectant stems from its antimicrobial properties, which make it effective in eliminating bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. Over the years, its applications have expanded to include medical uses and analytical purposes, thanks to its versatile chemical properties.

The discovery of Chloramine-T dates back to the 1920s when researchers sought a more effective and safer disinfectant for various industries. It was found to be highly effective in killing microorganisms while being less corrosive and less harmful than chlorine. This discovery led to its widespread use in water treatment, where it became an important tool for disinfecting drinking water. Chloramine-T proved to be especially useful because, unlike chlorine, it does not produce harmful byproducts when reacting with organic material in water.

In addition to its use in water treatment, Chloramine-T has been employed in the medical field as an antiseptic. It has been used to sterilize medical instruments and disinfect wounds. Its ability to kill both bacteria and fungi makes it a versatile antiseptic, useful in preventing infections and promoting faster healing. Chloramine-T has also been used in some treatments for fungal infections, helping to reduce the risk of complications and the spread of disease.

Another notable application of Chloramine-T is in analytical chemistry. It is used as a reagent in various chemical analyses, particularly in titrations. Its chlorinating properties allow it to selectively react with certain substances, making it an important tool in determining the concentration of various analytes. This property has made Chloramine-T indispensable in laboratory settings, where precision and accuracy are essential.

Despite its many uses, Chloramine-T must be handled carefully due to potential risks. In water treatment, for example, it can form toxic byproducts when reacting with organic materials. This underscores the importance of carefully controlling its application to prevent environmental and health issues. As with any chemical, the safety protocols for its use must be followed strictly to avoid adverse effects.

Overall, Chloramine-T has had a significant impact on several industries. Its discovery as a disinfectant, antiseptic, and reagent has made it a valuable tool in improving public health and safety. As further research is conducted into its applications and safety, it is likely that new uses for Chloramine-T will emerge, continuing its legacy as a versatile and essential chemical.

References

1991. Improved radioimmunotherapy of colorectal cancer xenografts using antibody mixtures. Cancer Immunology, Immunotherapy, 33(3), 153-160.
DOI: 10.1007/bf01789048

1987. Effects of chloramine-T on charge movement in frog nodes of Ranvier. Pflügers Archiv - European Journal of Physiology, 409(3), 269-274.
DOI: 10.1007/bf00583473

1979. Asthma due to industrial use of chloramine. British Medical Journal, 2(6181), 10-11.
DOI: 10.1136/bmj.2.6181.10