Sodium 2-[(2-Aminoethyl)Amino]Ethanesulphonate stands out in the world of chemical raw materials, both for its molecular structure and its set of properties that lend themselves to a range of uses in laboratory and industrial settings. Known also by its chemical formula C4H12N2NaO3S, it combines the sodium salt of a substituted ethanesulfonate backbone with two amine groups. These features show themselves in both the material’s reactivity and how it can blend into various processes. People in chemistry and materials science often describe it as a solid at room temperature, and it appears as white flakes, powder, pearls, or even crystals, depending on the specific way it’s manufactured or how it’s been stored. This kind of variability means users often need to check the form upon delivery, especially when handling the material in larger quantities for research or manufacturing.
Looking at the structure, Sodium 2-[(2-Aminoethyl)Amino]Ethanesulphonate contains a sulfonate group, a sodium cation, and two amine functional groups attached to a short two-carbon chain. The molecular weight lands around 190.2 g/mol. What makes this compound interesting is the arrangement of the amino groups and the way they influence binding and solubility. Whether a lab is creating a buffered solution, carrying out a synthesis, or experimenting with surfactants, the arrangement gives this compound a degree of chemical flexibility that inorganic salts rarely offer. Its solubility in water helps with creating solutions, a trait that traditional sulfonates may not always display at the same level.
In terms of physical properties, density lands in the rough range of 1.2 g/cm3, depending somewhat on moisture content and whether the material arrives as flakes, powder, or crystals. In my hands, the powder feels chalky but not overly dusty, showing a slight tendency to absorb water from the air, something that can create lumps if left exposed for long periods. In laboratory containers—especially at scale— handling this material calls for attention to prevent caking and to keep things easy to measure. Liquid forms exist, though these usually come in the form of already prepared aqueous solutions for quicker use in mixing or reactions.
People turn to Sodium 2-[(2-Aminoethyl)Amino]Ethanesulphonate as a buffer in biochemical and pharmaceutical processes. Its chemical design lets it help stabilize pH and support reactions sensitive to environmental swings. Beyond the lab, in larger-scale processes, this compound sometimes plays a role in manipulating charge and solubility, especially where biological compatibility matters. Biochemists find its properties helpful, as the sulphonate group resists many breakdown reactions and the sodium ion does not trigger much interference in sensitive experiments. The dual amine groups also offer points of chemical reactivity that can be useful for coupling reactions or for building more complex molecules.
Product specifications often outline purity levels, with typical high-purity material coming in at above 98%. As a raw material, suppliers will note the form: solid (flakes, powder, pearls, or crystals) or as a pre-mixed solution, which changes how it's handled and how fast it dissolves. Bulk users sometimes prefer flakes or pearls for long-term storage; in my work, the less dust a material generates, the easier it is to weigh and transfer. Whether loose or in solution, the product label always lists the HS Code for customs and regulatory needs: for this type of chemical, the HS Code falls under 2922, which covers certain nitrogen-function compounds. Details matter in international shipping and customs declarations, and mistakes here can slow down critical industrial timelines.
Sodium 2-[(2-Aminoethyl)Amino]Ethanesulphonate does not fall into the class of aggressively hazardous chemicals, but the standard safety rules apply. Inhalation of fine powder or contact with the eyes should be avoided; standard lab gloves, goggles, and dust masks go a long way. Its low toxicity profile removes some of the fear seen with classic industrial sulfonates, but a smart chemist or technician checks SDS sheets before moving forward with a new material. Disposal often follows the same rules as other sulfonate salts: local guidelines focus on keeping large amounts out of drains and groundwater, but the day-to-day risk level stays low compared to sulfuric acid or volatile organic compounds. In my own experience, spills clean up easily, as long as you sweep up powder promptly and rinse surfaces to avoid residues.
Oversight agencies look for documentation on raw materials like Sodium 2-[(2-Aminoethyl)Amino]Ethanesulphonate to make sure no harm reaches workers or the environment. Registration with chemical inventories—like the TSCA in the United States or REACH in Europe—helps track how much of this compound is manufactured and where it’s shipped. Today, raw material suppliers work with both industry and government regulators to ensure compliance, reduce waste, and support greener synthesis methods. Packaging often reflects these concerns, as drums or containers use liners to prevent moisture pickup and product clumping. There’s a push towards more sustainable sourcing—both for the amines and sulfonates involved—making traceability a common request from end-users and third-party auditors.
One real challenge comes from the moisture-sensitivity of Sodium 2-[(2-Aminoethyl)Amino]Ethanesulphonate, especially for users in humid climates. Factories that handle this chemical on a daily basis need to invest in proper storage—sealed containers and desiccant packs extend shelf life. In my own lab work, I’ve seen a few projects delayed by caked powder, a minor but frustrating issue that could be solved with better container choices. Another feature that deserves more discussion is chemical compatibility: with strong acids or oxidizers, the amine groups can react, introducing unwanted byproducts. Users in synthetic chemistry laboratories doublecheck all planned reactivity. Information sharing between supplier and client—down to lot number, method of preparation, and impurity profile—can solve problems before material ever reaches the lab bench or production line.
Work with chemicals like Sodium 2-[(2-Aminoethyl)Amino]Ethanesulphonate ties together product design, safe practice, and an understanding of both chemistry and regulation. It keeps the focus on both the micro-details of chemical handling and the bigger picture of safe supply chains and responsible use. People serious about using this material—whether running research on a small scale or manufacturing high-purity proteins—need to build in checks at every point, from ordering through disposal. With steady improvements in both process control and product tracking, Sodium 2-[(2-Aminoethyl)Amino]Ethanesulphonate stands as a reliable workhorse, provided attention stays on the details at every step.