Mesityldiphenylsulfonium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate
[CAS# 347841-51-4]

Identification

• Classification: Chemical reagent >> Organic reagent >> Sulfonate / sulfinate
• Name: Mesityldiphenylsulfonium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate
• Synonyms: diphenyl-(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl)sulfanium;4-methylbenzenesulfonate
• Molecular Formula: C₂₈H₂₈O₃S₂
• Molecular Weight: 476.65
• CAS Registry Number: 347841-51-4
• EC Number: 959-133-6
• SMILES: CC1=CC=C(C=C1)S(=O)(=O)[O-].CC1=CC(=C(C(=C1)C)[S+](C2=CC=CC=C2)C3=CC=CC=C3)C

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS06 Danger
• Hazard Statements: H301-H315
• Precautionary Statements: P264-P270-P280-P301+P316-P302+P352-P321-P330-P332+P317-P362+P364-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H301
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315

Discovory and Applicatios

Mesityldiphenylsulfonium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate is a sophisticated compound used primarily as a photoinitiator in UV-cured polymer systems. This chemical consists of a mesityldiphenylsulfonium cation paired with a 4-methylbenzenesulfonate anion, combining unique properties that make it effective for initiating cationic polymerization upon exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.

The discovery of mesityldiphenylsulfonium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate is rooted in the ongoing effort to enhance the efficiency of photoinitiators. In the early 2000s, researchers sought to develop photoinitiators with improved performance characteristics, including increased reactivity and compatibility with various monomers and resins. By incorporating mesityl and diphenyl groups into the sulfonium cation and pairing it with the 4-methylbenzenesulfonate anion, scientists achieved a compound with superior solubility and effectiveness in initiating polymerization.

The mechanism of action for mesityldiphenylsulfonium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate involves UV light-induced photolysis. When exposed to UV radiation, the compound decomposes to release a highly reactive sulfonium cation. This cation subsequently reacts with monomers such as epoxides, vinyl ethers, or cyclic ethers, generating strong acids that drive the polymerization process. This rapid initiation of polymerization is critical for applications where fast curing is essential.

One of the primary applications of mesityldiphenylsulfonium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate is in the field of UV-curable coatings. These coatings are utilized across various industries, including automotive, electronics, and packaging, due to their superior durability, chemical resistance, and quick drying times. The compound’s effectiveness in initiating polymerization leads to the formation of hard, protective coatings that offer resistance to environmental factors such as moisture and abrasion.

In the adhesives industry, this photoinitiator plays a crucial role in formulating UV-curable adhesives. These adhesives are used for bonding a range of materials, including plastics, glass, and metals. The ability of mesityldiphenylsulfonium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate to quickly initiate polymerization ensures that adhesives cure rapidly and form strong, durable bonds. This property is particularly valuable in applications requiring precise and efficient bonding, such as in electronics and automotive assembly.

Additionally, mesityldiphenylsulfonium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate is employed in the production of UV-curable inks. These inks are used for printing on various substrates, including non-porous materials like plastics and metals. The rapid curing achieved with this photoinitiator allows for high-resolution prints that are smudge-resistant and long-lasting. This feature is essential for applications in packaging, labeling, and other areas where print quality and durability are critical.

Overall, mesityldiphenylsulfonium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate represents a significant advancement in the field of photoinitiators, providing enhanced reactivity and efficiency for UV-curable systems. Its applications in coatings, adhesives, and inks highlight its importance in modern manufacturing processes that rely on fast and effective polymerization technologies.