Dimethyl sulfate

Dimethyl sulfate (CAS 77-78-1), commonly abbreviated as DMS, is a highly reactive methylating agent used in pharmaceutical synthesis and specialty chemical manufacturing.

Where is Dimethyl sulfate used?

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing: methylates API intermediates, enabling synthesis of analgesics, antihistamines, and cardiovascular compounds
• Agrochemicals: produces herbicides and pesticides where N- or O-methylation is a critical synthetic step
• Dye and textile industry: methylates intermediates for cationic and reactive dyes
• Specialty chemicals: quaternary ammonium compounds and methyl esters for surfactant and fragrance synthesis
• It transfers methyl groups to amines, phenols, carboxylic acids, and thiols.

Good to know: Procurement is handled through licensed chemical distributors given the regulatory controls governing its handling and transport. Strict adherence to safety protocols is required during storage and transfer.

Commercial specifications

• Technical grade, purity typically 99% or above
• Colorless to pale yellow liquid in drum and IBC quantities