2-Aminobenzenesulphonic Acid stands as a widely employed building block across the chemical industry. This compound, recognized by its systematic name as o-aminobenzenesulfonic acid or ortanilic acid, carries the molecular formula C6H7NO3S. As a solid substance, it often takes the form of white to off-white powder, but can also be found in coarse flakes or as tiny crystalline pearls. Some applications might call for it to be dissolved to create various solutions. The HS Code for this raw material commonly appears as 2921.42. Its melting point features prominently around 280°C, and the density comes in at approximately 1.485 g/cm³. Water solubility is moderate, leading to widespread use in aqueous solutions in both small and large-scale applications.
Looking at its structure, 2-Aminobenzenesulphonic Acid presents an aromatic benzene ring substituted with both an amino group (–NH2) at the ortho position and a sulfonic acid group (–SO3H). This combination creates a molecular environment where acidity and basicity interact, which proves vital for many chemical transformations. Molecular weight clocks in at about 173.19 g/mol, a manageable size that links it to both synthetic dye production and pharmaceutical intermediates. Structural characteristics explain why the product acts as a solid at room temperature and why it favors stability even under relatively harsh processing environments. It resists rapid degradation because these functional groups form a strong bond with the benzene ring core.
As a practical raw material, 2-Aminobenzenesulphonic Acid sticks to some physical properties that anyone handling or purchasing should pay attention to. You’ll notice its solid, powdery form feels slightly grainy, and its solubility in water rather than alcohol separates it from similar aromatic acids. The product usually ships in tightly sealed containers to prevent moisture uptake, which can cause clumping or unwanted reactions. In pearl or flake form, the acid handles well and avoids dusting, making it easier to measure and mix in industrial environments. The crystalline form shines under light, which sometimes helps in verifying its purity right out of the bag. Stability in storage is high, though a dry environment remains best to minimize degradation or caking.
Quality matters in chemical industries, and buyers expect clarity on product specifications. A standard supply might state purity levels at no less than 98%, with a moisture threshold below 1%. Known for a high degree of chemical safety, the acid by itself holds a low volatility with an absence of strong odors. Still, like many aromatic acids, airborne dust may cause moderate irritation to the eyes and respiratory passage, so operators in manufacturing plants wear gloves and goggles when working with bulk powder. Packaging tends to follow strict guidelines, often double-bagged in polyethylene, then placed inside fiber drums or high-density polyethylene containers, ensuring safe transport and storage.
Even though 2-Aminobenzenesulphonic Acid doesn’t come off as tremendously dangerous, it calls for smart handling like many raw materials. Direct skin contact can stir up mild irritation. Inhaling dust leads to coughing or minor respiratory discomfort. Since it isn’t highly flammable, factories usually store it away from sunlight in cool, dry rooms alongside other organic acids. Material safety sheets spell out necessary handling: use local exhaust ventilation, avoid eating or drinking nearby, and store away from bases or oxidizers. In cases of accidental spills, sweep up the solid and place it into labeled disposal bags. Emergency eye wash stations and gloves sit close at hand in processing plants, which experience has shown really does lower workplace accidents.
The most frequent destination for 2-Aminobenzenesulphonic Acid lies in the production of synthetic dyes and pigments, especially in the formation of azo dyes. These dyes find life in textiles, leather tanning, and ink manufacturing. This compound enters pharmaceutical synthesis as an intermediate, facilitating reactions for sulfa drugs and other aromatic medicines. Beyond that, the material sees use in specialty chemicals and aids as a raw ingredient for surfactant and detergent chemistry. Environmental labs sometimes use the compound as a reference standard for pollutant analysis, reflecting how its stable structure aids analytical work. In university teaching labs, students often run experiments on substitution and coupling, finding the properties of this acid useful for hands-on chemistry lessons.
Sourcing quality 2-Aminobenzenesulphonic Acid isn’t always straightforward, as market factors influence price, purity, and availability. Bulk production typically depends on sulfonation of aniline, a well-established route that encourages reproducibility and consistency. Every step along the way affects downstream properties—raw materials with unknown origins may contain trace contaminants, which muddy outcomes for sensitive dye or drug synthesis. Packaging and labeling should clearly identify batch and purity to support traceability, and companies that overlook material provenance often find themselves with inconsistent results. Responsibility in sourcing expands beyond price; it stretches to safety documentation, thorough quality testing, and willingness to invest in reputable suppliers.
Workplace safety and environmental responsibility surround every discussion of chemical raw materials like 2-Aminobenzenesulphonic Acid. Even though its hazards run moderate compared to some aromatic acids, accidents do happen. Investing in improved safety training, regular review of storage practices, and up-to-date personal protective equipment gives staff the confidence to handle compounds without exposing themselves to unnecessary risk. For environmental safety, manufacturers often install systems to capture accidental dust or leaks, and disposal procedures follow strict local guidelines to avoid runoff or contamination. Tracking lot numbers and running periodic purity tests provide a safeguard against off-specification batches entering the production stream.
Few compounds punch above their weight like 2-Aminobenzenesulphonic Acid. Its structure, physical makeup, and affordable sourcing keep it firmly entrenched in colorant, pharmaceutical, and specialty chemical markets around the world. My own time spent troubleshooting color consistency in textile formulations made it clear: using reliable, well-specified starting materials saves weeks of wasted work. Investing energy up front in understanding a compound’s properties and hazards pays off—safer workplaces, consistent final products, and an edge in the market. The strongest chemical supply chains always start with knowledge, not just a product price, and 2-Aminobenzenesulphonic Acid offers a textbook case for paying attention to every detail, from purity and storage to safe handling and sustainable use.
