1-Propanesulfonic acid, 3-(cyclohexylamino)-2-hydroxy-, monosodium salt is a chemical compound recognized for its specific molecular structure, containing both sulfonic acid and cyclohexylamino functional groups. The compound typically appears as a solid, most often available in the form of colorless or slightly white flakes, powder, or crystalline pearls. Chemists and manufacturers value the balance it provides between water solubility given by the monosodium salt form and the stability contributed by its cyclohexylamino substituent. The unique nature of this molecule opens up pathways in chemical synthesis, formulation, and even specialty applications in material science, where selectivity, compatibility, and manageable reactivity matter. Its CAS number is a unique identifier, streamlining global trade and regulatory compliance. The compound bears relevance to multiple industries sourcing specialty raw materials for chemical processing, research, and product formulation.
On a molecular level, this material features a core propanesulfonic acid backbone with a cyclohexylamino group positioned at the 3rd carbon and a hydroxyl group at the 2nd carbon, further stabilized as a monosodium salt. The empirical molecular formula typically reads as C9H18NO4SNa, with a molar mass around 259.30 g/mol, providing specification guidelines for quality assurance. Chemists consider its structural motif quite useful: The sulfonic acid grants substantial ionic character, improving hydrophilicity and contribution to reactivity in aqueous phases. Sodium exchange stabilizes the structure, offering enhanced storage and process safety. The density of this compound varies slightly based on hydration but hovers near 1.25 – 1.30 g/cm3 in solid phase. In solution, this salt dissolves readily in water, forming clear, colorless to slightly opalescent liquids that support various downstream processing methods.
Manufacturers offer 1-Propanesulfonic acid, 3-(cyclohexylamino)-2-hydroxy-, monosodium salt in several forms: powder, flakes, pearls, crystalline solids, and occasionally as pre-formulated solutions for easier dosing. Flakes tend to suit volumetric feed systems, powders support fine dosing and dissolution, while pearls and crystals help minimize dust and improve flow in automated handling. Its performance in storage and application depends on particle size and moisture content, so suppliers focus on maintaining tight control over drying, sizing, and packaging. Material transfer can involve lined drums, double-sealed bags, or bulk containers that resist both moisture ingress and chemical corrosion. Transfers to solution-phase reactions call for calibrated water or buffer addition in high-precision chemical processes, given the expectation of full and rapid dissolution.
The chemical structure features a sulfonate anion stabilized by sodium, making this salt less volatile and more manageable than the free acid. The molecular mechanics allow for participation in reactions as a nucleophilic reagent, specialty buffer component, or phase-transfer catalyst in organic synthesis. With a solid melting point well above ambient temperature, thermal stability usually isn’t a primary concern in storage, though dehydration and caking can still occur if conditions are not controlled. Safe handling instructs the use of gloves, eye protection, and dust masks to avoid irritation. There’s limited acute toxicity, but the compound can irritate mucous membranes and upper respiratory tract if particulate is inhaled or contacts moist skin. Chemical safety sheets call for avoiding direct ingestion or prolonged skin contact, and always working in ventilated areas or fume hoods. While not designated as a highly hazardous material under international transport laws, it requires responsible storage practices: segregated from acids, oxidizers, and moisture to avoid unwanted reactions. Emergency measures encourage copious water flushing for skin or eye contact, with medical attention recommended for significant exposure.
Production of this salt leans on the availability of propanesulfonic acid derivatives, cyclohexylamine, and sodium bases, all sourced from established chemical supply chains. Downstream, laboratories apply the compound in various organic syntheses, often using its hydrophilic sulfonate group to mediate reactions in mixed aqueous/organic systems. Specialty formulators look to its predictable solubility profile for developing custom buffer systems or in next-generation catalysis. Research teams exploring functional materials or ionizable polymers study its resonance effects and compatibility in complex formulation matrices. The raw material purity, granularity, and trace metal content can all influence the performance in high-specification technical and scientific environments.
Global trade and customs rely on the Harmonized System (HS) Code for chemical identification and duty processing. The typical HS Code for this compound falls within the broader category for sulfonic acids and their salts, found in Chapter 29 under “Organic Chemicals.” Reliable suppliers provide supporting documentation, including certificates of analysis, safety data sheets, reach registration details, and sometimes ISO quality certifications. Regulatory compliance addresses both workplace safety and environmental concerns, especially if the material enters wastewater or natural drainage, as sulfones and amines can require monitoring under certain regulatory statutes.
Direct work with this compound brings up a range of real-world issues: dust generation, safe transfer, packaging integrity, and spill management. Operators in chemical plants know these practicalities make or break a safe, efficient process. Good material flow helps projects move forward, while hangups in dosing or transfer cost time and risk exposure. Employee training matters: using the proper PPE and understanding the material’s reactivity and solubility builds workplace safety. Bulk users might prefer solutions or wet cakes to avoid dust, while research labs often stick with pure, dry powder for analytical accuracy. In every case, knowing the physical properties—density, solubility, stability—means you make better choices about dosing, mixing, and cleaning up. Nothing beats hands-on experience backed by clear safety data and well-maintained supply chains.
Concerns arise mainly with improper storage, accidental contact, or disposal. Material exposed to moisture can cake and lose free-flowing properties, making re-dispensing a challenge in both manual and automated environments. Investing in desiccant liners and climate-controlled storage reduces those risks. Accidental spills of powder or crystalline material, if handled swiftly with vacuum systems and absorbent pads, minimize spread and exposure. Waste handling flows into the broader picture of industrial and laboratory sustainability: collection, neutralization, and controlled disposal back up responsible chemical stewardship.
Working with 1-Propanesulfonic acid, 3-(cyclohexylamino)-2-hydroxy-, monosodium salt, my experience says you get the most value by linking its clear, reliable specifications—density, particle size, solubility, safety profile—to your actual work environment. Teams with a deep understanding of the compound’s structure and properties see fewer errors, fewer safety hiccups, and less waste. Sourcing from reputable providers, respecting safety protocols, and integrating technical documentation into every order and shipment strengthen both compliance and daily process reliability. For researchers, batch consistency and high purity prevent failed syntheses or invalid test results. For manufacturers, robust packaging and trusted supply chains cut down on downtime and unplanned expense. The real lesson: Know your raw materials, treat them with respect and care, and you end with safer, better outcomes—for people, products, and the environment.
