Sodium ethylenesulphonate
[CAS# 3039-83-6]

Identification

• Classification: Chemical reagent >> Organic reagent >> Sulfonate / sulfinate
• Name: Sodium ethylenesulphonate
• Synonyms: Ethylenesulfonic acid sodium salt; Sodium vinylsulphonate; SVS
• Molecular Formula: C₂H₃NaO₃S
• Molecular Weight: 130.09
• CAS Registry Number: 3039-83-6
• EC Number: 221-242-5
• SMILES: C=CS(=O)(=O)[O-].[Na+]

Properties

• Density: 1.18 g/mL (Expl.)
• Index of Refraction: 1.377 (Expl.)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H315-H319
• Safety Statements: P264-P264+P265-P280-P302+P352-P305+P351+P338-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	3	H412
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315

Discovery and Applications

Sodium ethylenesulphonate is an organic compound primarily used in the chemical industry, particularly for its role as a surfactant, electrolyte, and reagent in various chemical reactions. Its structure consists of an ethylene group bonded to a sulfonate group, and it is typically found in the form of its sodium salt. The compound has gained attention due to its wide-ranging applications in both industrial and laboratory settings.

The discovery of sodium ethylenesulphonate can be traced back to the early 20th century, as researchers explored the potential of sulfonated organic compounds. The sulfonate group, a functional group containing a sulfur atom double-bonded to oxygen, plays a critical role in the chemical reactivity of sodium ethylenesulphonate. The introduction of the ethylene linkage further enhanced its stability and solubility in various solvents, making it highly useful for specific applications. Over time, researchers identified its potential in applications that leverage both its ionic and polar properties, which help it function efficiently as a surfactant in emulsions and as an electrolyte in various chemical systems.

One of the primary applications of sodium ethylenesulphonate is in the formulation of detergents and emulsifiers. Due to its amphiphilic nature, it can lower the surface tension between oil and water, promoting the formation of stable emulsions. This property makes it useful in a wide range of industries, from pharmaceuticals to food processing, where stable emulsions and suspensions are required. Additionally, it is used in personal care products, including shampoos and body washes, to enhance the foaming and cleansing properties of the formulations.

In the realm of chemical synthesis, sodium ethylenesulphonate serves as an important intermediate in the production of other chemicals. It is frequently employed in reactions that require the introduction of a sulfonate group to a molecule, as the sulfonate group can enhance the solubility and reactivity of the compound. This makes it a valuable reagent in various synthetic pathways, particularly in the manufacture of specialty chemicals used in agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and dyes. Furthermore, its use as an electrolyte in batteries and fuel cells has been investigated, as it may improve the performance of these devices by enhancing ion conductivity.

Sodium ethylenesulphonate also finds application in the field of water treatment. Its ability to act as a dispersing agent allows it to be used in the prevention of scale formation in industrial water systems. By reducing the aggregation of particles, it helps maintain the efficiency of water-based processes, such as cooling and heating systems, where scaling can cause significant issues.

References

2024. Investigation of polyelectrolyte behavior of poly(allylamine hydrochloride), poly(vinyl sulfonic acid), and copolymers in different conditions. Polymer Bulletin, 81(12).
DOI: 10.1007/s00289-024-05385-9

2023. Versatile Multi-Network Hydrogel of Acrylamide, Sodium Vinyl Sulfonate, and N,N'-Methylene Bisacrylamide: A Sustainable Solution for Paracetamol Removal and Swelling Behavior. Journal of Polymers and the Environment, 31(12).
DOI: 10.1007/s10924-023-02988-7

2023. Functionalization of Pristine Coconut Husk (Cocos nucifera) with Sodium Vinyl Sulfonate for Removal of Toxic Hg2+ Ions from Wastewater. Water, Air, & Soil Pollution, 234(8).
DOI: 10.1007/s11270-023-06492-5