Ethanesulfonic Acid Methyl Ester stands out as a chemical compound with the formula C3H8O3S. This ester comes from ethanesulfonic acid and methanol. Most folks know it by its strong, sometimes sharp smell, and its stability under normal conditions. Though research calls out its use mainly for organic synthesis, its utility stretches beyond the lab. Plenty of professionals working in pharma and fine chemicals rely on compounds like this for making molecules that drive progress in medicine or agriculture.
People describe Ethanesulfonic Acid Methyl Ester as a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature, though it can solidify into a crystalline solid below certain temperatures. Its solid, flake, and even powder forms are easy to spot from their texture and density, which usually lands around 1.2 grams per cubic centimeter. The melting point shows up close to -30°C, and boiling gets underway at roughly 180°C under standard atmospheric pressure. Its chemical properties include a high solubility in polar solvents like water, methanol, and ethanol. The sulfonic ester bond inside its molecular structure boosts its reactivity, which matters a lot in specialized synthesis.
With a molecular weight of about 124.16 grams per mole, its structure blends a methyl ester group and a strong sulfonic acid residue, linking with a two-carbon ethyl chain. This specific molecular layout shapes how it interacts during chemical reactions, especially where sulfonation or methylation play a role. Chemists look for features like these in building blocks when they want predictable behavior—selectivity, for example, or controlled reactivity for greener processes. The density and phase—whether you’ve got a liquid, crystal, or flakes—change with storage and handling, so details matter from production right up to application.
Every batch comes matched to specifications that keep quality consistent. The main identifiers include HS Code 2904.90, marking it as part of organic sulfur compounds for global trade and customs. Finished product ranges from clear, nearly odorless liquids to fine white powders or glistening pearls, depending on preparation and purity. Analytical techniques such as NMR or GC-MS confirm structure and purity down to small percentages. Those of us who have handled chemical sourcing or lab procurement know that the specifications sheet can make or break a project, since consistency lets companies plan safely, minimizing waste or unexpected hazards.
Ethanesulfonic Acid Methyl Ester deserves respect as a hazardous substance. Direct contact irritates skin or eyes, and inhalation, particularly in enclosed spaces or as a mist, may harm respiratory systems. Safety data sheets lay out needed precautions—gloves, goggles, fume hoods, and good ventilation. Since it reacts strongly with strong bases or oxidizers, storage away from incompatible materials stands as good common sense. Proper labeling, secondary containment for liquids, and emergency supplies close at hand keep people safe. Those who have seen small lapses—spills, accidental exposure—know that preparation and vigilance make a difference, especially in universities or smaller labs where resources might run thin.
This compound steps up as a reagent and starting raw material in organic synthesis. Its methyl and sulfonic acid functional groups let chemists attach or swap groups onto more complicated frameworks, making it useful in pharmaceutical intermediates, agrochemical development, and specialty polymers. Experienced process engineers see esterification and sulfonation as powerful methods, relying on pure, standardized raw materials to match reaction scale, cost, and efficiency. In greener chemistry, the right starting compounds can cut down on toxic byproducts, energy use, or complicated purification steps. With global demand for new molecules and functional materials growing, the value of this ester as a versatile building block continues to go up.
Working with Ethanesulfonic Acid Methyl Ester raises health and environmental questions. Toxicity to aquatic life, flammability in bulk form, and difficulty in waste handling all need careful planning. Disposal in regulated facilities, neutralization before release, and recycling of spent material whenever possible help reduce negative impacts. Modern manufacturers are turning to automated monitoring and safer packaging to limit accidental releases or worker exposure. Training for storage and response minimizes accidents, and stricter record-keeping tracks where materials go. Innovation doesn’t always come easy or cheap, but long-term safety and environmental stewardship stay front and center for everyone charged with chemical management. Prudent sourcing from established vendors who provide full documentation makes a big difference, as about half of incidents in the supply chain trace back to incomplete or flawed chemical ID or safety practices.
