Sulfuryl Chloride
Sulfonyl Chloride, Sulfuric Oxychloride, SO2Cl2.
- CAS
- 7791-25-5
- EC
- 232-245-6
- Sectors
- Pharma & Healthcare, Agriculture, Rubber & Elastomers
Sulfuryl Chloride (CAS 7791-25-5) is an inorganic sulfuric oxychloride supplied as a colorless to light yellow fuming liquid with a pungent acrid odor, and it acts as a chlorinating and chlorosulfonating agent that introduces chlorine or sulfonyl groups into aromatic and aliphatic compounds for pharmaceutical, agrochemical and rubber applications. It is often preferred over elemental chlorine for its ease of handling and high regioselectivity in organic synthesis.
This chemical is indispensable for the production of Agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals, where it is used to introduce chlorine or sulfonyl groups into aromatic and aliphatic compounds. Its high reactivity ensures rapid conversions at lower temperatures, preserving sensitive functional groups.
The substance reacts vigorously with water, releasing sulfur dioxide and hydrogen chloride gases, which requires strictly anhydrous handling. Its dual functionality as a source of both chlorine and sulfur dioxide makes it a unique tool for creating complex sulfonamides and esters.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | Cl2O2S |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 134.97 g/mol |
| Appearance | A colorless to light yellow fuming liquid. Pungent acrid odor. |
| Form | Liquid |
| Color | Clear colorless to yellow |
| Melting point | -54.1 °C |
| Boiling point | 69.3 °C |
| Density | 1.6674 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Water solubility | reacts |
| Flash point | 69.1°C |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Corrosive, Acute toxicity, Irritant / harmful, Health hazard |
| HS code | 28121099 |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Sulfuryl Chloride
Applications
- Chlorination: Widely used to chlorinate organic molecules, including the production of pharmaceuticals and pesticides like selective herbicides.
- Chlorosulfonation: Facilitates the introduction of chlorosulfonyl groups, essential for synthesizing sulfonamide drugs and specialized dyes.
- Polymer Treatment: Employed in the chlorination of polyethylene and as a curing agent for various synthetic rubbers and resins.
Safety & Risks
Classified as Toxic by Inhalation (Class 6.1) and Corrosive (Class 8). Reacts violently with water; handle with Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and Full Chemical Suits.
Packaging
50 kg Carboys, 250 kg Steel Drums, and specialized Isotanks.