N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide, commonly known as ETS, is a substance often used as a plasticizer in various consumer products such as plastic packaging, adhesives, and coatings. Its chemical properties make it an essential component in enhancing the flexibility and durability of these materials. Consequently, ETS plays a crucial role in ensuring the functionality and longevity of everyday items that we encounter in our daily lives.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide, also known as ETSA, has several commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as a plasticizer in the production of polymers, improving flexibility and durability. Additionally, ETSA is utilized as a lubricant additive to reduce friction and wear in metalworking operations.
In terms of drug and medication applications, N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide is commonly used as an active pharmaceutical ingredient in topical analgesic creams and ointments. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective pain-relief agent for various skin conditions. Moreover, ETSA is also employed in the formulation of sunscreen lotions due to its UV-absorbing capabilities.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide is a white crystalline solid with no distinct odor. Its appearance is similar to common table sugar or salt.
The molar mass of N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide is 193.28 g/mol, and its density is approximately 1.15 g/cm³. Compared to common food items like sugar (molar mass of 342.30 g/mol, density of 1.59 g/cm³) and salt (molar mass of 58.44 g/mol, density of 2.17 g/cm³), N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide has a lower molar mass and density.
N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide has a melting point of 98-100°C and a boiling point of 305-307°C. Compared to common food items like butter (melting point of 32-35°C, boiling point above 250°C) and sugar (melting point above 160°C, no boiling point), N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide has higher melting and boiling points.
N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide is sparingly soluble in water and exhibits low viscosity. Compared to common food items like sugar (highly soluble in water, low viscosity) and honey (highly soluble in water, high viscosity), N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide has lower solubility and viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide is primarily produced through a process known as sulfonation, where toluene reacts with sulfuric acid to form toluenesulfonic acid. The toluenesulfonic acid is then further reacted with ethylamine to yield N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide. This synthesis process is typically carried out in a controlled laboratory setting to ensure purity and consistency of the final product.
To procure N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide, one can typically contact a chemical supplier or manufacturer specializing in organic compounds and sulfonamides. The compound can be purchased in various quantities, from small research-grade amounts to larger industrial quantities. Transportation of N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide is typically done in sealed containers, following proper safety protocols for handling hazardous chemicals to prevent any leaks or spills during transit.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide involve handling the compound with care to avoid skin and eye contact. It is recommended to work with this chemical in a well-ventilated area to prevent inhalation of vapors, which may be harmful. Personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats should be worn when working with N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide to minimize the risk of exposure.
Hazard statements for N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide include phrases such as “Causes skin irritation,” “Causes serious eye irritation,” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” These statements indicate the potential dangers associated with exposure to this chemical, emphasizing the importance of taking necessary precautions when handling it. It is important to follow proper safety protocols to minimize the risks of skin, eye, and respiratory irritation when working with N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide.
Precautionary statements for N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide include instructions such as “Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection” and “Wash hands thoroughly after handling.” These statements highlight the importance of using personal protective equipment and practicing good hygiene to prevent adverse effects from exposure to this chemical. It is also recommended to store N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide in a tightly closed container in a well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials to minimize potential risks.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Potential research directions for N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide (NEtSA) may include exploring its applications as a pharmaceutical intermediate in the synthesis of various drugs. Additionally, studies could focus on the development of NEtSA-based pesticides or herbicides due to its chemical properties.
Furthermore, investigations could be conducted on the toxicity and environmental impact of NEtSA, particularly in aquatic ecosystems where it may be used as a biocide. Research could also examine its potential as a corrosion inhibitor for metal surfaces in various industrial applications.
Moreover, studies could be undertaken to explore the catalytic properties of NEtSA in organic reactions, as well as its potential use in polymer chemistry for the synthesis of novel materials. Additionally, research could investigate the interaction of NEtSA with various biomolecules to understand its pharmacological or biological effects.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide based on molecular structure is N-Isopropyl-o-toluenesulfonamide. This compound contains an isopropyl group instead of an ethyl group attached to the nitrogen atom, while still having the toluenesulfonamide moiety. This structural similarity confers similar physicochemical properties and potentially similar biological activities to N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide.
Another related compound is N-Methyl-o-toluenesulfonamide. Here, a methyl group is attached to the nitrogen atom instead of an ethyl group, maintaining the toluenesulfonamide structure. This change in alkyl chain length may result in differences in solubility, stability, and binding affinities compared to N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide, while still retaining some similar properties.
A further analogous compound is N-Propyl-o-toluenesulfonamide, where a propyl group is attached to the nitrogen atom in place of an ethyl group, alongside the toluenesulfonamide moiety. This alteration in alkyl chain length may lead to differences in biological activity, potency, and pharmacokinetic properties compared to N-Ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide, yet the shared structural backbone suggests potential overlapping effects.
