Sulfolane

CAS 126-33-0C4H8O2SChemical Synthesis

Sulfolane (CAS: 126-33-0, C4H8O2S) is a cyclic sulfone with a molecular weight of 120.17 g/mol. This colourless liquid or solid exhibits high thermal and chemical stability, making it a valuable solvent in various industrial applications. Its primary use is as a selective solvent in the purification of hydrocarbons, particularly in the extraction of aromatics from refinery streams and the sweetening of natural gas. It is also employed in chemical synthesis.

IUPAC: Tetrahydrothiophene 1,1-dioxide,Tetramethylene sulfone
Synonyms: Tetrahydrothiophene 1,1-dioxideTetramethylene sulfone

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Sulfolane (C4H8O2S) — chemical structure, CAS 126-33-0; Chemistry, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions

Building BlocksC4 to C6Chemical SynthesisHeterocyclic Building BlocksThiophenes

01 /Applications

Aromatic Extraction

Sulfolane is a highly effective solvent for the extractive distillation of aromatics (BTX - benzene, toluene, xylene) from reformate streams in petroleum refining. Its high selectivity and capacity facilitate efficient separation.

Natural Gas Sweetening

It is utilised in gas treating processes to remove acidic impurities such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and carbon dioxide (CO2) from natural gas and synthesis gas, improving gas quality.

Polymer Production

Sulfolane serves as a reaction solvent or processing aid in the manufacturing of certain high-performance polymers, benefiting from its stability at elevated temperatures.

Chemical Synthesis

As a versatile heterocyclic compound, sulfolane can act as a building block or solvent in various organic synthesis pathways, including the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.

02 /Properties

Molecular weight	120.17
Empirical formula	C4H8O2S
Assay	99%
Boiling point	104 °C/0.2 mmHg(lit.)285 °C(lit.)
Density	1.261 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.)
Refractive index	n20/D 1.484(lit.)
Vapour pressure	0.01 mmHg (20 °C)
Melting point	20-26 °C(lit.)
Vapour density	4.2 (vs air)

03 /Safety & handling

GHS hazard pictogram: Harmful / irritant (GHS07) — Harmful / irritant

Warning

Hazard statements

H302Harmful if swallowed

Protective equipment	dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves
Flash point	177 °C / 350.6 °F
Water hazard class (WGK, DE)	1
Hazard codes (EU)	Xn
Risk statements (R)	22
Safety statements (S)	25

Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.

04 /Identifiers & registry

CAS number

126-33-0

MDL number

MFCD00005484

PubChem substance

24900023

Beilstein registry

107765

05 /Quality & supply

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.

06 /Frequently asked questions

What is Sulfolane primarily used for?

Sulfolane is primarily used as a selective solvent in petrochemical processes, such as the extraction of aromatics from hydrocarbon mixtures and the removal of acidic gases from natural gas.

What is the CAS number and chemical formula for Sulfolane?

The CAS number for Sulfolane is 126-33-0, and its chemical formula is C4H8O2S.

What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?

Tech Serve Solutions supplies Sulfolane with an assay of 99%. This is a technical grade product, and we do not represent it as meeting any specific pharmacopoeia standards (e.g., USP, BP, EP).

What are the main safety hazards associated with Sulfolane?

Sulfolane is classified with the GHS07 symbol and a 'Warning' signal word. It has the hazard statement H302, indicating it is harmful if swallowed. Appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (type N95 US), eyeshields, and gloves, should be used when handling.

How is Sulfolane typically packed and shipped by TSS?

Tech Serve Solutions exports Sulfolane in compliance with international shipping regulations. Packaging is designed to maintain product integrity and safety during transit. Please contact us for specific details on available quantities and shipping arrangements.

How can I request a quote or sample of Sulfolane?

To request a quote or a sample of Sulfolane, please visit the 'Contact Us' section of our website or call our sales team directly. Provide the product name and CAS number (126-33-0) for prompt service.