Sodium cumenesulfonate stands out in the world of specialty chemicals as a versatile sulfonate, commonly produced from cumene and sulfur trioxide to deliver a sodium salt form. Its presence in material science stretches from detergency boosters to various industrial applications. A close look at its features uncovers a clear to slightly yellowish solid, often found in forms like powder, flakes, granules, pearls, and sometimes as a concentrated liquid solution. Its reputation stems not just from utility but also from the precise chemical structure it offers, defined by the molecular formula C9H11NaO3S. This backbone—featuring a sodium atom bonded to cumenesulfonic acid—shapes both performance and compatibility in water-based formulas.
Each property carries importance for manufacturers who use sodium cumenesulfonate as a raw material. The density typically ranges from 1.2 to 1.3 g/cm³ at room temperature, in line with the behavior of sulfonate salts. The compound appears as either a free-flowing powder, crystalline flakes, or sometimes uniform pearls. Its solid characteristics enable easy weighing and handling, while its water solubility means that solutions up to 40% can be straightforward to prepare. The melting point generally sits between 250°C and 260°C, higher than many organic salts, reflecting the stability of the sulfonate group. One of the unique traits of this substance is its hygroscopic nature—drawn from its chemical structure—which means it can attract water from the environment, affecting storage and packaging needs.
This raw material features a benzene ring substituted at the para or meta position with an isopropyl group, while the sulfonic acid group bonds to the aromatic ring, fully neutralized with a sodium ion. CAS number 28348-53-0 gets assigned for regulatory and sourcing reference. The presence of the aromatic backbone, coupled with the surfactant-like sulfonic group, accounts for its assistant cleaning ability in formulas. Chemists point to the robust interaction between the sodium cation and the sulfonated aromatic ring for the compound’s stable aqueous behavior. Access to the HS Code 29041000 aligns sodium cumenesulfonate with other sulfonic acid salts, making it traceable in global trade.
Manufacturers offer sodium cumenesulfonate in multiple physical states that suit various industrial processes. Solid powder provides versatility, particularly in automated blending, while flakes break down quickly in water, ideal for batch-based manufacturing. Pearls, a more recent innovation, reduce dust and improve safety for operators. Liquid concentrates—usually formulated around 40% active content—cut down dissolving time for fast-paced production lines. Product packaging ranges from woven bags for the solid forms to high-density polyethylene drums for liquids and slurries. Each variant has its own reasons for use; for example, the powder form travels well with low risk of caking, whereas solutions help formulators skip a dissolution step.
Sodium cumenesulfonate finds its place as an essential ingredient in household and industrial cleaners, where it acts as a hydrotrope—boosting the solubility of less soluble compounds and preventing precipitation in concentrated detergents. Its role extends to textiles, where it assists in dye baths for uniform distribution, and in agrochemical applications that require wetting agents. In the personal care industry, sodium cumenesulfonate helps thin thick mixtures, making products easier to use. Behind the scenes in industrial cleaning, this sulfonate allows blended surfactant solutions to keep clear, which matters for quality control and process consistency.
Like most sulfonate chemicals, safe handling of sodium cumenesulfonate remains crucial. Despite being labeled as a low-hazard material, prolonged exposure through inhalation or direct skin and eye contact must be avoided to reduce irritation risks. Proper storage in dry, well-ventilated conditions, away from moisture and strong oxidizers, preserves the compound’s quality and prevents caking or clumping. Operators in facilities handling the powder or flakes use dust masks and protective gloves—common practice for many inorganic and organic salts. Bulk tanks and sealed drums keep the compound safe from atmospheric humidity which can trigger clumping and reduce shelf life. Emergency response follows standard chemical safety protocols; material safety data sheets outline swift action for accidental spills and exposures.
Chemists dissect sodium cumenesulfonate down to its basic formula—C9H11NaO3S. The sodium ion introduced during synthesis adds water solubility, while the rest of the molecule delivers the desired hydrotropic performance. Specifications in commerce often require a purity above 90%, minimal moisture content, and acceptable sodium sulfate byproducts, as these parameters affect end-use performance. The product may be subject to scrutiny under local chemical control laws; providing transparency with certifications like SGS and compliance data helps downstream users trace raw material origins and ensure safe handling practices. For global commerce, the HS Code connected with sodium cumenesulfonate guides importers and exporters through international regulatory channels.
Discussion about environmental impact brings sodium cumenesulfonate into debates about water solubility and biodegradation. Though considered less harmful than more persistent organic compounds, it is not entirely benign—large volumes entering aquatic systems can alter pH and affect aquatic organisms. As part of wastewater treatment considerations, ensuring breakdown or removal before effluent discharge helps limit potential environmental influence. In health discussions, the compound’s low acute toxicity does not mean it is harmless; chronic or repeated exposure, especially in enclosed spaces, prompts industries to fit proper exhaust and personal protection to keep chemical exposure well below occupational safety limits.
To move toward better safety standards, companies reformulate packaging for dust-free transfer and switch to pearl or solution forms wherever possible. Staff training now extends beyond the minimum—to real chemical hazard identification and emergency response drills. Where local rules do not yet account for hydrotropic agents, companies draw from international guidelines and put these measures into practice ahead of legislation. Responsible sourcing supports environmental commitments; some suppliers pursue greener synthesis methods, aiming to minimize byproducts and energy use. For users across manufacturing, transparent supply chain tracking—supporting E-E-A-T principles—restores confidence that sodium cumenesulfonate works with both performance and people in mind.
