Solvents
REACH
Sulfolane
CAS Number
126-33-0
EC Number
204-783-1
What is Sulfolane?
Sulfolane (CAS 126-33-0), also known as thiophane dioxide, is a high-boiling, water-miscible polar aprotic solvent used in extraction, purification, and reaction processes.
Where is Sulfolane used?
- Natural gas and refinery: active solvent in Sulfinol and other licensed processes for removing hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide from gas streams
- Petrochemical: aromatic extraction, particularly BTX separation, selectively recovering benzene, toluene, and xylene
- Pharmaceutical: reaction solvent for synthesis steps requiring a stable, high-polarity medium
- Electronics: electrolyte formulations and processing solvent where low volatility is critical
- It tolerates strong bases and nucleophiles during production.
Commercial specifications
- Purity by GC, water content, and color (APHA) specified depending on end-use requirement
- Technical grade standard; high-purity grades for specialized applications
Other Names (Synonyms)
thiophane dioxide|thiophan sulfone|thiolane-1,1-dioxide|thiacyclopentane dioxide|tetramethylene sulfone|tetrahydrothiophene 1-dioxide|sulfolan|cyclotetramethylene sulfone
What are the physical properties of Sulfolane?
Melting Point 27.4-27.8 °C
Boiling Point 285 °C
Density 1.2606 g/cm³ @ Temp: 30 °C
Flash Point 330 °F
Appearance Sulfolane is a colorless oily liquid
Color Clear yellow
Form Liquid After Melting
Water Solubility soluble
Vapor Pressure 0.01 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.484(lit.)
Log P 0 at 20℃
How is Sulfolane classified and handled safely? Learn More
Warning
GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard
Hazard Statements
H302 Harmful if swallowed
H320 Causes eye irritation
H360 May damage fertility or the unborn child
H361 Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child
Precautionary Statements
P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Sulfolane?
HS Code 29349990
Storage Class 6.1C - Combustible acute toxic Cat.3
toxic compounds or compounds which causing chronic effects
WGK (Germany) 1