Organic Acids
REACH
Methanesulfonic acid
CAS Number
75-75-2
EC Number
200-898-6
Abbreviation
MSA
What is Methanesulfonic acid?
Methanesulfonic acid (CAS 75-75-2), commonly abbreviated as MSA, is a strong organic acid used across industrial and specialty chemical sectors.
Where is Methanesulfonic acid used?
- Pharmaceuticals: forms mesylate salts of active pharmaceutical ingredients, improving solubility and bioavailability
- Electronics: electrolyte component in tin, lead, and copper electroplating baths
- Printing and packaging: catalyst in UV-curable coatings and etching agent for circuit board production
- Water treatment: pH adjustment and descaling
- It combines high acidity with biodegradability and low oxidizing potential.
Good to know: Unlike mineral acids, it combines high acidity with biodegradability and low oxidizing potential; its biodegradable profile offers a regulatory advantage over hydrochloric or sulfuric acid.
Commercial specifications
- 70% and 99%+ (anhydrous) concentrations
- Pharmaceutical-grade material meets USP and Ph. Eur. specifications
- Bulk supply in IBC containers and drummed quantities
Other Names (Synonyms)
methylsulfonic acid|MSA|Methanesulphonic acid|Kyselina methansulfonova|12EH9M7279|J1.465F
What are the physical properties of Methanesulfonic acid?
Melting Point 20 °C
Boiling Point 167 °C @ Press: 10 Torr
Density 1.4812 g/cm³ @ Temp: 18 °C
Flash Point >230 °F
Appearance colourless or light yellow liquid
Color brown
Form Solution
Water Solubility Miscible with water. Slightly miscible with benzene and toluene. Immiscible with paraffins.
Vapor Pressure 1 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.429(lit.)
How is Methanesulfonic acid classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS05· Corrosive GHS07· Irritant GHS06· Toxic GHS08· Health Hazard
Hazard Statements
H290 May be corrosive to metals
H301 Toxic if swallowed
H302 Harmful if swallowed
H312 Harmful in contact with skin
Precautionary Statements
P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P234 Keep only in original packaging.
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Methanesulfonic acid?
HS Code 29041000
UN Number 3265
ADR Class 8
Packing Group II
Storage Class 8A - Combustible corrosive hazardous materials
WGK (Germany) 1