Tosyl Chloride Overview and Suppliers

Tosyl chloride, known scientifically as p-toluenesulfonyl chloride, is a versatile reagent widely used in organic chemistry. It is identified by its CAS number 98-59-9. This white crystalline compound is a vital intermediate for the synthesis of various chemical products, including pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its unique sulfonyl functional group makes it an efficient activating agent, particularly for alcohols and amines, enabling the formation of sulfonamide derivatives and other useful compounds.

Chemical Properties

Tosyl chloride boasts a molecular formula of C7H7ClO2S and a molecular weight of approximately 190.66 g/mol. It is characterized by its ability to substitute hydroxyl groups in alcohols, making them more reactive toward nucleophiles. This property is particularly important in the creation of tosylates, which can be used in further nucleophilic substitutions to produce a range of complex organic molecules.

As a sulfonyl chloride, tosyl chloride is sensitive to moisture and should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its stability and reactivity. When it comes into contact with water, it hydrolyzes, forming p-toluenesulfonic acid, which is a less reactive species. Therefore, handling tosyl chloride requires appropriate safety precautions, including the use of gloves, goggles, and working in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood.

Applications

The applications of tosyl chloride span various sectors. Its primary utility lies in organic synthesis, where it is used to convert alcohols and amines into more reactive intermediates. In the pharmaceutical industry, tosyl chloride is employed in the synthesis of drug compounds, aiding in the formation of key intermediates. Additionally, it is utilized in the production of polymeric materials, surfactants, and dyes, highlighting its importance in the chemical industry.

Furthermore, tosyl chloride serves as a protector group in peptide synthesis, facilitating the selective modification of amino acids. Once the desired reactions are complete, tosyl groups can be easily removed, allowing for the regeneration of the original functional groups. This feature makes tosyl chloride an invaluable tool in complex molecule synthesis, particularly in academic and industrial research.

Suppliers of Tosyl Chloride

Given the diverse applications and demand for tosyl chloride, numerous suppliers and manufacturers offer this compound globally. These suppliers cater to various sectors, including research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and chemical manufacturers.

1. Sigma-Aldrich A prominent supplier of chemical products, Sigma-Aldrich provides high-quality tosyl chloride with detailed product specifications, safety data sheets, and technical support for customers engaged in research and development.

2. TCI America TCI America specializes in providing fine chemicals, including tosyl chloride. Their commitment to quality and customer service ensures that researchers have access to reliable chemicals for their projects.

3. Alfa Aesar Another key player in the chemical supply industry, Alfa Aesar offers tosyl chloride among its extensive range of reagents and chemicals. They are known for their high purity standards and comprehensive product offerings.

4. Acros Organics Part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, Acros Organics supplies tosyl chloride for various organic synthesis applications. They emphasize sustainability in their manufacturing processes and provide extensive technical resources for their products.

5. Fisher Scientific Fisher Scientific is a well-known distributor of laboratory supplies, including chemical reagents like tosyl chloride. They cater to a broad audience, from educational institutions to industrial labs, ensuring easy access to essential chemicals.

Conclusion

Tosyl chloride (CAS 98-59-9) is a crucial building block in modern organic synthesis, underpinning a wide array of chemical processes and applications. Its ability to activate alcohols and amines for further reactions makes it a favored reagent among chemists. With a multitude of suppliers globally, accessing high-quality tosyl chloride has never been easier, allowing researchers and manufacturers to leverage its chemistry in various innovative ways. As the field of organic chemistry continues to evolve, tosyl chloride will undoubtedly remain an essential component in the toolkit of synthetic chemists.