Sulfanilic acid
Sulfanilic acid (CAS: 121-57-3), with the formula 4-(H2N)C6H4SO3H, is an organosulfur compound with a molecular weight of 173.19 g/mol. This white crystalline solid is an important intermediate in the synthesis of azo dyes and optical brighteners. Its amphoteric nature allows it to react as both an acid and a base, making it a versatile building block in organic synthesis and a key reagent in analytical chemistry.
- IUPAC
- 4-Aminobenzenesulfonic acid,Aniline-4-sulfonic acid
- Synonyms
- 4-Aminobenzenesulfonic acidAniline-4-sulfonic acid

Dye Synthesis
Sulfanilic acid is a crucial precursor in the manufacture of azo dyes, providing the diazo component. These dyes are widely used in textiles, inks, and pigments.
Optical Brighteners
It serves as a building block for fluorescent whitening agents, which enhance the brightness of textiles and paper by absorbing UV light and emitting blue light.
Pharmaceutical Intermediates
The compound is utilised in the synthesis of certain pharmaceutical agents, contributing to the development of various medicinal compounds.
Analytical Reagent
Sulfanilic acid is employed in analytical chemistry for the determination of nitrites and as a reagent in various titration methods.
| Molecular weight | 173.19 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | 4-(H2N)C6H4SO3H |
| Assay | 98.0-102.0% (ACS specification)99% |
| Grade | ACS reagent |
| Melting point | >300 °C(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H317May cause an allergic skin reaction
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
Precautionary statements
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Faceshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/38-43 |
| Safety statements (S) | 24-37 |
| Anion traces | chloride (Cl-): ≤0.002%nitrite (NO2-): ≤0.5 ppmsulfate (SO42-): ≤0.01% |
| Ignition residue | ≤0.01% |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Sulfanilic Acid used for?
+
Sulfanilic acid is primarily used in the synthesis of azo dyes and optical brighteners, as well as being an intermediate in pharmaceuticals and an analytical reagent for nitrite determination.
What are the CAS number and chemical formula for Sulfanilic Acid?
+
The CAS number for Sulfanilic Acid is 121-57-3 and its chemical formula is 4-(H2N)C6H4SO3H.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for Sulfanilic Acid?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies Sulfanilic Acid meeting ACS reagent specifications, with an assay of 98.0-102.0% (ACS specification) or 99%.
What are the safety considerations when handling Sulfanilic Acid?
+
Sulfanilic Acid is classified with GHS07, a Warning signal word, and has hazard statements H315 (causes skin irritation), H317 (may cause an allergic skin reaction), and H319 (causes serious eye irritation). Appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (N95), eyeshields, face shield, and gloves, should be worn. Handle in a well-ventilated area.
How is Sulfanilic Acid typically packed, shipped, and exported?
+
Sulfanilic Acid is carefully packed to ensure product integrity during transit and is available for export globally by Tech Serve Solutions.
How can I request a quote or sample for Sulfanilic Acid?
+
To request a quote or a sample of Sulfanilic Acid, please contact our sales team via the website or by phone.
▶ Related products

5-Sulfosalicylic acid dihydrate
HO3SC6H3-2-(OH)CO2H 2H2O
Acids & Bases
Calcium hydroxide
Ca(OH)2
Acids & Bases
Acetic acid-12C2
12CH312CO2H
Acids & Bases
Acetic acid-13C2
13CH313CO2H
Acids & Bases
Acetic acid-13C2,d4
Acids & Bases

Acetic acid-17O2
CH3C17O2H
Acids & Bases
Acetic acid-18O2
CH3C18O2H
Acids & Bases
Acetic acid-2,2,2-d3
2-d3
Acids & Bases▶ Explore more

3-Methyl-1,5-di-p-tolyl-1,4-pentazadiene
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1,5-pentanediol
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1-(2-methylphenyl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine
C11H13N3
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1-(3′-sulfoamidophenyl)-5-pyrazolone
C10H11N3O3S
Chemical Synthesis