Camphorsulfonic Acid stands as a key chemical component in many laboratories and industrial facilities, well recognized for its distinct physical and chemical properties. It goes by the full name 10-Camphorsulfonic Acid and comes from the modification of camphor with sulfonic acid. This acid exists as a white to off-white solid, sometimes found as flakes, powder, or crystalline pearls. Most often, professionals use it in its solid form because it is easy to handle and dispense by weight, which helps maintain accuracy in chemical synthesis. The chemical formula for Camphorsulfonic Acid is C10H16O4S, and it has a molecular weight of around 232.30 g/mol. In practical use, this property makes it straightforward to measure out precise amounts in a lab without dealing with tricky conversions. Its unique scent and solid state remind me of earlier days in the lab, hunting for solid acids that would not flash off in humid weather or dissolve too quickly during storage.
The structure of Camphorsulfonic Acid features a fused bicyclic camphor skeleton attached to a sulfonic acid group. This layout gives the molecule stability and resistance to environmental changes such as moisture or temperature swings. Density sits at about 1.34 g/cm³ for the solid form, and the melting point ranges from 190 to 200°C, so it keeps shape under most reasonable conditions in manufacturing plants. The functional sulfonic acid group forms strong acids that do not lose reactivity due to atmospheric carbon dioxide or water vapor, so end users can count on consistent results in demanding synthesis. In my own work, Camphorsulfonic Acid stands out for its reliable acidity, and researchers have leaned on that predictable strength when producing fine chemicals or pharmaceuticals.
Manufacturers usually supply Camphorsulfonic Acid as white flakes, powder, pearls, and sometimes as a crystalline solid. Flakes and powders disperse efficiently in various solvents, which speeds up reaction times and cuts down delays in multi-step synthesis. Powdered product clings less to surfaces, a bonus when weighing out small quantities on an analytical balance. Pearl or bead forms help with flow in automated dispensing machines, which matters when running large batch processes over multiple shifts. In rare cases, Camphorsulfonic Acid appears as a viscous solution for specialty uses, but most production managers go for solid types for cost and shelf-life reasons.
Camphorsulfonic Acid carries the Harmonized System (HS) code 290410, which classifies compounds with a sulfonic acid function. Consistent HS code assignment streamlines customs and import logistics across regions, supporting compliance and reducing costly border disruptions. Standard specifications include an assay (purity) greater than 98.0%, moisture content below 1.5%, and low levels of heavy metals. These numbers provide practical guardrails for procurement managers vetting new suppliers, as any slip in purity shakes up complex chemical reactions. Sourcing teams often require detailed certificates of analysis before shipment, since a single off-spec batch can stall entire lines.
Safety data classify Camphorsulfonic Acid as a hazardous chemical under most regulatory frameworks. Direct contact can cause skin or eye irritation, and inhalation of dust may lead to respiratory discomfort. Facilities that use this raw material keep it in tightly sealed containers to block moisture uptake and restrict airborne particles. All staff handling Camphorsulfonic Acid rely on protective clothing, gloves, eyewear, and local exhaust ventilation. My experience on plant floors has shown that even brief contact leads to stinging and redness, so consistent PPE usage matters. Spill kits and emergency showers make up the safety backbone, as a little extra attention up front cuts down on accidents or missed production targets. Teams should never lose sight of updating hazard training whenever new batches or forms of Camphorsulfonic Acid enter the pipeline.
Camphorsulfonic Acid finds extensive use as a strong acid catalyst in organic synthesis, particularly for pharmaceutical intermediates and specialty polymers. Its compatibility with various solvents, coupled with its solid form, means chemists can add it directly to reaction vessels without extended prep time. As a raw material, it acts as a chiral source in stereoselective reactions, essential for creating certain drugs where molecular orientation changes therapeutic effects. Companies in electronics may use it in conductive polymers, thanks to the strong acid function helping form useful materials for coatings and components. From my industry contacts, demand for Camphorsulfonic Acid rises whenever new routes for custom molecules need a reliable, shelf-stable acid in granular, powder, or crystalline formats.
Industry faces real challenges with proper disposal and environmental impact. Camphorsulfonic Acid runoff or spills can harm waterways, affecting aquatic life due to its reactivity. Plants address these concerns using dedicated containment, waste neutralization, and routine safety audits. Scaling up sustainable sourcing of camphor, the starting raw material, means more independent supply chains and fewer price swings. For workers, improving storage options like moisture-proof drums and dosing tools with closed-transfer systems can cut down dust release and skin exposure risks. Regular review of safety data sheets and close cooperation between procurement, operations, and EH&S teams strengthens compliance both for workplace health and international trade.
Precision in a chemical like Camphorsulfonic Acid makes the difference in success or failure, whether running a multi-ton reactor or filling a lab-scale bottle. Companies use this acid not because it’s merely “available,” but because small properties—density, solid state, and reactivity—make it a repeat performer, trusted in time-sensitive production and research. Every shipment with clear labeling, traceable HS code, and dependable analysis results protects against lost product and regulatory issues. Chemical management isn’t only about compliance; it grows from practical experience keeping hazards controlled and predictable. Taking personal responsibility for accurate specifications and good handling means a safe working environment and steady output, both in the lab and on the factory floor.
