Overview
Isethionic acid (CAS 107-36-8 ) is a sulfonic acid derivative used primarily as a chemical intermediate and pH buffering agent across pharmaceutical, personal care, and industrial manufacturing sectors.
Its sodium and potassium salts, sodium isethionate and potassium isethionate, are independently traded and specified in formulation work, making them distinct procurement targets for global manufacturers.
In personal care manufacturing, these compounds serve as key intermediates in synthesizing acyl isethionate surfactants, the basis of mild, skin-compatible cleansing bars and liquid wash systems.
Pharmaceutical formulators use it as a buffering agent and solvent carrier in drug salt formation, particularly where improved solubility or controlled pH is required for stability.
Textile and leather processors apply it in dyeing and finishing baths, where its buffering capacity helps maintain consistent process pH and improves dye uptake uniformity across materials.
Paper treatment operations use isethionate salts as dispersing agents to improve fiber compatibility and surface chemistry. Isethionic acid is supplied as an aqueous solution, typically around 70% concentration.
Sodium isethionate is available as a white powder or granules, commonly offered in technical and cosmetic-grade specifications. Potassium isethionate is available from specialty suppliers in technical-grade form.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | <25 °C |
| Boiling Point | 226°C at 101.3kPa |
| Density | 1.344 (estimate) |
| Appearance | Liquid. Very soluble in water; insoluble in alcohol. |
| Color | Colorless to light yellow |
| Form | Colourless Solution |
| Vapor Pressure | 0Pa at 25℃ |
| Refractive Index | 1.5090 (estimate) |
| Log P | -1.65 at 25℃ and pH2 |
Safety & Handling
Danger GHS05 Hazard Statements H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage H318 Causes serious eye damage H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects Precautionary Statements P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P363 Wash contaminated clothing before reuse. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P301+P330+P331 Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. P302+P361+P354 IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 2930909899 |
Other Names
Related Products
Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 107-36-8
- EC Number
- 203-484-3
- Mol. Weight
- 126.13
- HS Code
- 2930909899
- Category
- Surfactants