Sulfur trioxide trimethylamine complex
Sulfur trioxide trimethylamine complex (CAS 3162-58-1), with the linear formula (CH3)3N · SO3 and a molecular weight of 139.17, is a key reagent in organic synthesis. It serves as a versatile sulfonating agent for creating sulfate esters and as a nucleophile for specific synthetic transformations, finding utility in the preparation of various complex organic molecules.
- IUPAC
- NSC 9838,Trimethylamine sulfur trioxide complex
- Synonyms
- Trimethylamine sulfur trioxide complex

Sulfation Reactions
This complex acts as an effective sulfonating agent in the synthesis of sulfate-conjugated compounds. It is employed in the preparation of bioactive molecules such as sulfate-conjugated resveratrol metabolites and glycosaminoglycans, which play roles in cell signalling.
Synthesis of Glycosaminoglycans
It is utilised in the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans, molecules that are crucial for biological processes and can be modified to mimic heparan sulfate structures for research purposes.
Preparation of Surfactants
The reagent is used in the synthesis of specialised surfactants, such as dodecyl thioglycopyranoside, which are valuable in analytical techniques like enantiomeric separation.
Nucleophilic Applications
As a nucleophile, Sulfur trioxide trimethylamine complex is employed in specific synthetic pathways, including the preparation of alpha-tosyloxy ketones for further chemical elaboration.
| Molecular weight | 139.17 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | (CH3)3N · SO3 |
| Application | Reactant for sulfation reactions involving: • Synthesis of sulfate-conjugated resveratrol metabolites1• Chitooligosaccharides used for anti-HIV-1 activity2• Dodecyl thioglycopyranoside used as a surfactant for enantiomeric separation3• Glycosaminoglycans which facilitate activation of signaling pathways dependent on sulfation pattern4• Polysaccharides as heparan sulfate mimetics5Nucleophile for the synthesis of α-tosyloxy ketones6 |
| Melting point | 232 °C (dec.)(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
Precautionary statements
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face particle respirator type N100 (US), Gloves, respirator cartridge type N100 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter, type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 3261 8 / PGII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | C |
| Risk statements (R) | 34 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36/37/39-45 |
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 Sulfur trioxide trimethylamine complex used for?
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Sulfur trioxide trimethylamine complex is primarily used as a sulfonating agent in organic synthesis for creating sulfate esters and as a nucleophile in reactions like the synthesis of alpha-tosyloxy ketones.
What are the CAS number and formula for Sulfur trioxide trimethylamine complex?
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The CAS number is 3162-58-1, and its linear formula is (CH3)3N · SO3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies this compound for laboratory and research use. Please refer to the product's Certificate of Analysis for specific purity and assay details. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Sulfur trioxide trimethylamine complex be handled safely?
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This compound is corrosive and can cause severe skin burns and eye damage (H314). Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including eye protection, gloves, and respiratory protection. Store in a well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials.
How is this chemical packed, shipped, and exported?
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Products are typically packed according to international transport regulations to ensure safe delivery. TSS is an experienced global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals.
How can I request a sample or quote?
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Please contact our sales team via the website or by phone to request a sample or a quotation for Sulfur trioxide trimethylamine complex.
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