Organic Acids
REACH
Isethionic acid
CAS Number
107-36-8
EC Number
203-484-3
What is Isethionic acid?
Isethionic acid (CAS 107-36-8) is a sulfonic acid derivative used mainly as a chemical intermediate and pH buffering agent.
Where is Isethionic acid used?
- Personal care: intermediate in synthesizing acyl isethionate surfactants for mild cleansing bars and liquid wash systems
- Pharmaceutical: buffering agent and solvent carrier in drug salt formation where solubility or controlled pH is needed
- Textile and leather: buffering in dyeing and finishing baths for consistent process pH and uniform dye uptake
- Paper treatment: isethionate salts act as dispersing agents for fiber compatibility and surface chemistry
- Sodium isethionate and potassium isethionate are independently traded and specified in formulation work.
Commercial specifications
- Aqueous solution, typically around 70% concentration
Other Names (Synonyms)
Sodium beta-hydroxyethanesulfonate|Potassium isethionate|Potassium 2-hydroxyethanesulfonate|Kyselina isethionova|Isethionic acid sodium salt|Hydroxyethylsulfonic acid|Ethanolsulfonic acid|beta-hydroxyethanesulfonic acid
What are the physical properties of Isethionic acid?
Melting Point <25 °C
Boiling Point 226°C at 101.3kPa
Density 1.344 (estimate)
Appearance Liquid. Very soluble in water; insoluble in alcohol.
Color Colorless to light yellow
Form Colourless Solution
Vapor Pressure 0Pa at 25℃
Refractive Index 1.5090 (estimate)
Log P -1.65 at 25℃ and pH2
How is Isethionic acid classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS05· Corrosive
Hazard Statements
H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
H318 Causes serious eye damage
H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects
Precautionary Statements
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P273 Avoid release to the environment.
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Isethionic acid?
HS Code 2930909899