1,3-Propanediol Cyclic Sulfate is an organic compound widely used in chemical synthesis and research laboratories. Its molecular formula is C3H6O4S, and its structure features a five-membered ring with a sulfate group joined to two carbon atoms. This cyclic sulfate forms through the reaction of 1,3-propanediol with a sulfating agent, leading to a product essential for organic synthesis, especially as a reactive intermediate in ring-opening polymerization or in the construction of more complex molecules. Its role in fine chemical synthesis highlights its importance in creating building blocks for pharmaceutical agents and specialty polymers.
This compound typically appears as a white to off-white solid. Depending on preparation and storage, it may appear in flakes, crystalline powder, or small granules. It does not present as a pearl or large solid chunk, nor flows easily like a liquid, keeping a solid or semi-crystalline form at room temperature. The crystals are often brittle, and the compound can be pulverized into a fine powder for ease of handling. The density usually falls around 1.54 g/cm3, reflecting the contribution of the sulfate group to mass and volume. Its melting point ranges between 50°C and 60°C, allowing for relatively easy melting and solution preparation in laboratory processes. This contrasts with more robust polycyclic sulfates, which tend to require higher temperatures for processing.
Chemists reference 1,3-Propanediol Cyclic Sulfate with an HS Code of 29309090, identifying it among other organic chemicals outside specific categories. For purity, laboratories and suppliers aim for levels above 98%, seeking to avoid moisture because of hydrolysis susceptibility. Moisture or trace acids can prompt ring opening, degrading the compound and complicating reactions. Quality control involves infrared spectroscopy and NMR analysis to confirm consistent structure, as well as chromatographic techniques to verify purity. The product dissolves well in many polar organic solvents such as acetonitrile and dimethyl sulfoxide. Solutions at gram-per-liter levels remain stable for limited periods if kept dry and shielded from strong acids or bases.
What makes 1,3-Propanediol Cyclic Sulfate stand out is its high ring strain. The cyclic sulfate group, under certain conditions, opens readily, yielding diols or sulfate esters as intermediates. This property suits applications in the synthesis of functionalized polyethers and specialty polyols used in advanced materials, adhesives, or surfactants. The ring itself acts as a leaving group, facilitating nucleophilic substitution. Researchers leverage this feature to introduce sulfate esters or diol functionalities in specific positions, enabling the stepwise construction of larger molecules. In my time working in a university research setting, I saw this compound used repeatedly as a precursor in asymmetric synthesis. The ability to functionalize central carbons via selective nucleophilic attack made product isolation quicker and with fewer byproducts than comparable open-chain sulfates.
Dealing with 1,3-Propanediol Cyclic Sulfate, workers must respect its reactivity. The solid is not particularly volatile, so inhalation hazards remain minimal unless fine dust particles disperse. On contact with skin or eyes, irritation can occur because of the sulfate moiety; safety goggles and gloves provide necessary protection. If ingested, the compound may hydrolyze and cause internal irritation. Its main hazard lies in strong reactivity with water or nucleophiles—so spills or residues in humid areas demand swift cleanup. Proper storage means sealed containers kept in cool, dry settings, isolated from acids and bases to limit accidental decomposition. Safety protocols treat it as a harmful chemical, with all work under a fume hood and use of appropriate personal protective equipment. Training lab workers to understand its risks minimizes incidents and supports compliance with chemical safety regulations. Any disposal must comply with local hazardous waste guidelines, as the hydrolysis and degradation products contribute residual toxicity to the environment.
Production of 1,3-Propanediol Cyclic Sulfate starts with sourcing 1,3-propanediol, traditionally derived from petroleum or, increasingly, through bio-based fermentation of glycerol. The sulfation step uses reagents like chlorosulfonic acid or sulfur trioxide, both potent materials requiring expertise and infrastructure for safe application. Sourcing high-quality raw materials boosts efficiency and ensures lower impurity loads in the finished product. Sustainable suppliers of 1,3-propanediol from renewable sources gradually shift market dynamics, as more chemical manufacturers opt to reduce fossil-based feedstocks. Making the switch to bio-based feeds introduces new analytical controls, but brings the promise of greener supply chains and reduced overall environmental impact. In the chemical industry, every improvement in upstream sourcing or process optimization helps both the bottom line and occupational safety.
Accurate handling of 1,3-Propanediol Cyclic Sulfate rests on clear labeling, comprehensive material safety data, and strict adherence to standard operating protocols. Automating reagent transfer reduces worker exposure. Continuous improvement through employee training and better ventilation systems supports safer environments. Investing in greener synthetic methods for both the diol and sulfonation step aligns with sustainable chemistry goals. Collaboration between researchers and industrial producers can yield modified types with enhanced hydrolysis resistance or improved crystallization properties, which in turn supports broader application and smoother handling. As regulatory scrutiny on chemical safety tightens, transparency in raw material origin and structure verification improves trust — not only among industrial partners, but also with local communities and end-users.
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