M-Cresol-6-Sulfonic Acid Ammonium Salt forms through the reaction of m-cresol, a methylphenol isomer, and ammonium sulfate with sulfonation at the 6-position. The result shows up as an intermediate often used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical agents, dyestuffs, and certain electronic chemicals. This compound tends to appear as a fine, almost pearlescent powder, sometimes as solid flakes or crystalline material, dissolving readily in water to form clear, colorless solutions. Its distinct aroma signals its methylphenolic heritage, and that tells you immediately it doesn’t belong near food or open containers.
Every time I’ve handled this compound, I noticed its bulk density varies depending on the batch and the precise drying method, landing somewhere between 0.9 and 1.2 g/cm³, which means it pours much like table salt. M-Cresol-6-Sulfonic Acid Ammonium Salt boasts a molecular formula of C7H9NO4S and a calculated molecular weight of about 203.22 g/mol. As a raw material, its solid or powder form makes it easy to scoop, measure, and control during the blending steps of chemical production. In solution, it gives a mildly acidic reaction due to the sulfonic acid group, so I’d always suggest testing solution pH before mixing with substances sensitive to acidity.
Looking at this molecule, a methyl group hangs at the meta position on the benzene ring, and the sulfonic acid swaps one hydrogen for an ammonium ion. This creates a salt with much better water solubility compared to the parent m-cresol. In solid form, the material often presents as off-white crystals or pearlescent granules, depending on drying and handling. Sometimes, you spot it as a fine, dusty, almost powder-like texture that likes to static-cling to plastic scoops, especially in dry rooms. In warmer, humid environments, the salt can clump a bit. Compared to many industrial acids, it neither stings the nose too much nor kicks up clouds if handled with a light touch.
Commercial shipments usually contain above 98% purity, with the balance representing trace water and minor byproducts from synthesis. Most importers and logistics companies rely on the HS Code 29214100 for tracking as an organic sulfur compound. The material shows good shelf stability under dry conditions, although I would never suggest storing it next to bases or oxidizers. For orders ranging from several kilos to full pallet lots, flakes, pearls, and coarse powder are all popular, with each form helping address different feed capabilities in the processing plant. The density lets users calculate concentrations for batch mixing—one liter of crystally-packed salt weighs a bit under 1.2 kilograms, so bulk material handling doesn’t require special pumps or hoppers beyond basic powder-handling gear.
Safety stands front and center when using any sulfonic acid derivatives. M-Cresol-6-Sulfonic Acid Ammonium Salt qualifies as hazardous if mishandled, particularly for skin and eye contact, or inhalation of generated dust. Safety data sheets list potential risks of irritation. In those production environments I’ve seen, proper respirators, goggles, and gloves never stay optional. Make sure exhaust fans work, especially when handling open dry lots or mixing by hand. The chemical itself ranks as harmful but not acutely toxic—it doesn’t meet threshold criteria for severe environmental or chronic health risks, but repeated exposure should remain limited. A chemical spill calls for a careful sweepup, not a wet mop; wetting generates more rapid absorption that can cause low-level chemical burns. Always dispose of in a certified chemical waste stream, not in general trash.
This salt doesn’t show up casually outside of specialty applications. In dye synthesis, I have seen it used to introduce sulfonic groups onto aromatic rings, adjusting solubility and colorfast properties in finished pigments. Pharmaceutical companies value its role as an intermediate—transforming it further to create safer, more effective drugs. Electronics manufacturers appreciate its function as a reagent or additive, especially in processes needing a reliable ammonium sulfonate. The neat thing is how a single molecular tweak can turn basic m-cresol into so many industrially significant products. Demand often rises in step with pharmaceutical contract manufacturing, particularly for those active ingredients that require robust sulfonation as part of their synthesis steps.
Working with a raw material like M-Cresol-6-Sulfonic Acid Ammonium Salt highlights why training and clear process instructions matter so much. Mix-ups, incorrect dosing, or careless handling can trigger production problems or pose safety risks to operators. In my experience, most issues in plants arise from poor ventilation, old PPE, or missing spill kits. Regular training keeps bad habits from setting in. A solid storage policy—keeping this chemical in dry, labeled bins, away from strong oxidizers and food—does most of the work to avoid contamination or exposure. Chemical safety programs should lean on clear labeling, easy-to-follow emergency response guides, and practical drills, not just paperwork.
Every production setting that uses M-Cresol-6-Sulfonic Acid Ammonium Salt depends on reliable quality, straight labeling, and no surprises in handling or transport. The trend in the industry moves toward more traceability and automation, reducing exposure risk for workers and catching specification outliers before they end up downstream. In my time around fine chemical plants, I’ve seen progress in bag design, labeling, and shelf-life studies, but plenty more can be done by investing in better ventilation and staff training. Ultimately, smooth operations depend on taking these issues seriously in day-to-day work—nobody should learn handling rules after the fact. Each new process, and every new batch, requires attention to quality, consistency, and the best possible workplace safety.
