Sulfanilic acid, a compound found commonly in industrial and laboratory settings, holds significant relevance in everyday life due to its usage in various industries and applications. It serves as a key component in the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides, among others. Additionally, sulfanilic acid plays a crucial role in wastewater treatment processes, as it aids in the removal of pollutants and contaminants. Its versatile properties and diverse applications make sulfanilic acid a valuable and indispensable chemical compound in modern society.
Table of Contents:
Commercial Applications
Chemical & Physical Properties
Production & Procurement
Safety Considerations
Potential Research Directions
Related Compounds
Commercial Applications
Sulfanilic acid, a white crystalline powder, is a versatile compound used in various commercial and industrial applications. One of its primary uses is as a precursor in the production of azo dyes, which are widely used in the textile, leather, and paper industries. It is also utilized as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and rubber chemicals.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, sulfanilic acid has been historically used in the production of sulfa drugs, which are antimicrobial agents. These drugs have been employed in the treatment of bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and meningitis. Additionally, sulfanilic acid is a key component in the synthesis of certain chemotherapy agents, as it plays a crucial role in the formation of chemical compounds that exhibit anti-cancer properties.
Chemical & Physical Properties
Sulfanilic acid is a white crystalline solid with no distinct odor. It is commonly used in the synthesis of dyes and pharmaceuticals due to its versatile chemical properties.
The molar mass of sulfanilic acid is approximately 173.19 g/mol, and it has a density of about 1.485 g/cm^3. This places it in the range of common household items such as baking soda and table salt in terms of molar mass and density.
Sulfanilic acid has a melting point of around 288-290°C and a boiling point of approximately 300-310°C. In comparison to common household items like sugar and aspirin, sulfanilic acid has a higher melting and boiling point.
Sulfanilic acid is highly soluble in water and has a lower viscosity compared to substances like honey or syrup. Its solubility and viscosity characteristics make it suitable for use in various industries, including the textile and pharmaceutical sectors.
Production & Procurement
Sulfanilic acid is primarily produced through the nitration of aniline, followed by the reduction of the resulting nitroaniline with iron or other reducing agents. This process yields Sulfanilic acid as a white crystalline powder, which is further purified through recrystallization.
The procurement of Sulfanilic acid typically involves purchasing the compound from chemical suppliers or manufacturers. It is commonly available in both industrial-grade and laboratory-grade forms, depending on the intended use. Specialized chemical transport companies handle the shipping of Sulfanilic acid, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and proper handling procedures.
Transportation of Sulfanilic acid may involve packaging the compound in appropriate containers to prevent leakage or contamination. Due to its potential hazardous nature, Sulfanilic acid shipments are subject to regulations governing the transport of dangerous chemicals. It is crucial for transporters to follow proper safety protocols and secure the necessary permits for the transportation of Sulfanilic acid.
Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Sulfanilic acid include the potential for irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract upon contact or inhalation. It is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat when handling this compound. In case of accidental exposure, it is recommended to rinse affected areas with plenty of water and seek medical attention if necessary.
As for the pharmacology of Sulfanilic acid, it is important to note that it is primarily used in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and dyes. When ingested, Sulfanilic acid is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and metabolized in the liver. It is excreted primarily in the urine, with a half-life of approximately 4-6 hours.
Hazard statements for Sulfanilic acid include “Causes skin irritation” and “Causes serious eye irritation.” It is also classified as harmful if swallowed and may cause respiratory irritation. It is important to store Sulfanilic acid in a cool, dry place away from incompatible materials, and to avoid contact with skin and eyes.
Precautionary statements for Sulfanilic acid include “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection” and “IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.” It is also advised to keep Sulfanilic acid away from heat, sparks, and open flames, as it is combustible.
Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for Sulfanilic acid is in the field of environmental science, where it could be studied for its efficacy in wastewater treatment processes due to its ability to react with pollutants.
Further research may explore the potential applications of Sulfanilic acid in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the development of new drugs or drug delivery systems.
Additionally, Sulfanilic acid could be investigated for its potential antifungal or antibacterial properties, which may lead to the development of new antimicrobial agents.
Related Compounds
One structurally similar compound to Sulfanilic acid is 4-aminobenzoic acid, also known as para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). This compound consists of a benzene ring with an amino group and a carboxyl group attached at the para position. PABA is commonly used as a UV filter in sunscreen formulations and as a precursor in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals.
Another compound closely related to Sulfanilic acid is sulfanilamide, which is an analog of Sulfanilic acid with a primary amine group in place of the carboxylic acid group. Sulfanilamide is a sulfonamide antibiotic that inhibits bacterial growth by interfering with folic acid synthesis. This compound has been widely used in the treatment of bacterial infections since its discovery in the early 20th century.
A further analog of Sulfanilic acid is sulfanilic acid hydrazide, which is derived from Sulfanilic acid by replacing the carboxylic acid group with a hydrazide group. Sulfanilic acid hydrazide is a versatile compound that can be used in the synthesis of various hydrazones and Schiff bases, which have applications in organic chemistry and medicinal chemistry. This compound has also been studied for its potential antimicrobial and anticancer properties.
