Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is an anionic sulfonated aromatic compound belonging to the naphthalene sulfonate family, designed primarily for use as a functional auxiliary rather than a classical detergent.
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate's structure combines a hydrophobic fused-ring naphthalene system with a strongly ionized sulfonate group, giving the molecule amphiphilic character and high affinity for both aqueous phases and hydrophobic solid surfaces.
Due to its strong anionic nature and good chemical stability, sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is widely used in concrete admixtures, dyes and pigments, agrochemicals, textile processing, leather chemicals, and industrial cleaners.
CAS number: 827-95-0
EC number: 212-590-6
Molecular formula: C11H9NaO3S
Molecular weight: 272.25 g/mol
Synonyms: Sodium methyl and dimethylnaphthalenesulfonate, Sodium Methylnaphthalene Sulfonate, sodium salt (1:2), RefChem:476681, 219-172-5, 2379-92-2, 6DU6XKU3FC, DTXSID8062361, SCHEMBL10483756, SPDUFLWDSCKGPG-UHFFFAOYSA-L, NS00019961, Disodium 1,1'-methylenedi(naphthalene-2-sulfonate), Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate, sodium methylnaphthalenesulphonate, Sodium mono- and dimethyl naphthalene sulfonate, 1A0PLS266R, Disodium 1,1'-methylenedi(naphthalene-2-sulphonate), 2-Naphthalenesulfonic acid, 1,1'-methylenebis-, disodium salt, EINECS 219-172-5, 2-Naphthalenesulfonic acid, 1,1'-methylenebis-
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is the sodium salt of methylnaphthalene sulfonic acid and is commonly used as a dispersant, wetting agent, and surfactant in industrial, construction, chemical, and formulation applications.
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate belongs to the alkyl naphthalene sulfonate family and is typically supplied as a mixture of positional isomers unless a specific isomer is stated.
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is highly effective in reducing surface tension and improving the dispersion of solid particles in aqueous systems.
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate enhances wetting, prevents agglomeration, and improves flow and stability in formulations.
Due to its strong anionic nature and good chemical stability, sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is widely used in concrete admixtures, dyes and pigments, agrochemicals, textile processing, leather chemicals, and industrial cleaners.
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is water-soluble, thermally stable under normal conditions, and compatible with many inorganic and organic systems.
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate's performance, cost efficiency, and robustness make it a preferred dispersing and wetting agent in applications where efficient particle distribution and formulation stability are critical.
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is an anionic sulfonated aromatic compound belonging to the naphthalene sulfonate family, designed primarily for use as a functional auxiliary rather than a classical detergent.
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate's structure combines a hydrophobic fused-ring naphthalene system with a strongly ionized sulfonate group, giving the molecule amphiphilic character and high affinity for both aqueous phases and hydrophobic solid surfaces.
This dual nature allows Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate to interact efficiently at solid–liquid interfaces, promoting rapid wetting and improved dispersion behavior.
In formulation systems, Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate acts mainly as a dispersing and penetration agent.
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate facilitates the breakdown of agglomerates and supports the formation of fine, uniform particle distributions, particularly in systems containing pigments, dyes, mineral fillers, or organic powders.
Unlike highly foaming surfactants, Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate offers controlled surface activity with low foam tendency, which is advantageous in industrial processing where excessive foaming can hinder mixing, pumping, or application.
Uses of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is widely used as a dispersant and wetting agent to improve the dispersion of pigments, fillers, and solid particles in aqueous systems.
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is commonly applied in dyes, pigments, inks, and coatings, where it enhances color strength, stability, and uniformity by preventing particle agglomeration.
In the construction industry, sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is used as a component of concrete and cement admixtures, where it improves workability, dispersion of cement particles, and overall performance of fresh concrete.
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is also used in agrochemical formulations as a dispersing and emulsifying agent to ensure uniform distribution of active ingredients.
Additionally, sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is applied in textile and leather processing, industrial cleaners, and detergent formulations to improve wetting, cleaning efficiency, and process consistency.
Uses Area:
Construction Industry:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is used in concrete and cement admixtures to improve particle dispersion, increase workability, and enhance overall concrete performance.
Dyes and Pigments:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is used as a dispersing agent in dyes and pigments to improve color strength, prevent agglomeration, and ensure uniform distribution.
Coatings and Inks:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is used in water-based coatings and printing inks to enhance wetting, dispersion, and formulation stability.
Agrochemicals:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is used in agrochemical formulations to ensure uniform dispersion of active ingredients and improve formulation efficiency.
Textile Industry:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is used in textile dyeing and finishing processes to improve wetting, dye penetration, and process consistency.
Leather Processing:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is used in leather processing to aid the dispersion of dyes, tanning agents, and auxiliaries.
Detergents and Cleaners:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is used in industrial cleaners and detergent formulations to enhance wetting and cleaning performance.
Industrial Formulations:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is used in various industrial formulations where effective dispersion and surface activity are required.
Features of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is an anionic surfactant with strong dispersing and wetting properties, widely used in industrial formulations to improve particle dispersion and surface interaction.
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate dissolves readily in water, reduces surface tension, and provides electrostatic stabilization that prevents agglomeration of pigments, fillers, and solids.
Due to its good chemical and thermal stability, broad formulation compatibility, and cost-effective performance at low dosages, sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is a reliable choice for applications such as concrete admixtures, coatings, inks, dyes, agrochemicals, and industrial cleaners.
Pharmacodynamics of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate does not exhibit intrinsic pharmacological activity; its action is primarily physicochemical rather than biological.
As an anionic surfactant and dispersing agent, Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate reduces surface and interfacial tension, improves wetting, and stabilizes dispersed particles through electrostatic repulsion.
In pharmaceutical formulations, this mechanism enhances the uniform distribution of insoluble actives, improves dissolution behavior, and supports formulation stability.
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate does not interact with biological receptors or enzymes and, when used as an excipient within recommended limits, does not produce systemic pharmacodynamic effects.
Structure of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate consists of a naphthalene aromatic ring system substituted with a methyl group (–CH₃) and a sulfonate group (–SO₃⁻), with sodium (Na⁺) as the counter-ion.
The sulfonate group is strongly acidic and remains ionized in aqueous solution, giving the molecule Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate's anionic surfactant character, while the naphthalene ring provides a hydrophobic aromatic backbone.
In commercial products, sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is typically present as a mixture of positional isomers, depending on the location of the methyl and sulfonate substituents on the naphthalene ring.
This amphiphilic structure—hydrophobic aromatic core and hydrophilic sulfonate head—enables effective wetting, dispersion, and surface activity in aqueous systems.
Production of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is produced by the sulfonation of methylnaphthalene, followed by neutralization with a sodium base.
In the first step, methylnaphthalene is reacted with a sulfonating agent such as sulfuric acid or oleum under controlled temperature conditions, introducing the sulfonic acid group (–SO₃H) onto the naphthalene ring.
This reaction typically yields a mixture of positional isomers, depending on reaction conditions and substitution patterns.
In the second step, the resulting methylnaphthalene sulfonic acid is neutralized with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate to form the corresponding sodium salt.
The product is then purified, concentrated, and dried (or supplied as an aqueous solution), depending on the intended application.
Industrial production focuses on controlling sulfonation degree, isomer distribution, and purity to ensure consistent dispersing and wetting performance in downstream applications.
Stability and Reactivity of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
Chemical stability:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is chemically stable under normal conditions of use, handling, and storage.
Reactivity:
No hazardous reactions are expected under normal conditions.
Conditions to avoid:
Excessive heat, strong acids, and strong oxidizing conditions.
Incompatible materials:
Strong oxidizing agents and strong acids.
Hazardous decomposition products:
Thermal decomposition may produce sulfur oxides (SOx), carbon oxides (CO, CO₂), and aromatic fumes.
Handling and Storage of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
Handling:
Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practices.
Avoid generating excessive dust and avoid contact with eyes and skin.
Hygiene measures:
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in handling areas.
Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Keep containers tightly closed when not in use.
Storage conditions:
Protect from moisture and direct heat sources.
Packaging materials:
Use clean, dry, and inert containers.
Shelf life:
Stable for extended periods when stored under recommended conditions.
First Aid Measures of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
Inhalation:
Move the affected person to fresh air.
If respiratory irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Skin contact:
Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water.
Seek medical advice if irritation develops.
Eye contact:
Rinse cautiously with clean water for several minutes.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water.
Do not induce vomiting.
Seek medical advice if discomfort occurs or if large quantities are ingested.
Most important symptoms:
Mild irritation to eyes, skin, or respiratory tract due to dust exposure.
Firefighting Measures of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
Flammability:
Sodium methylnaphthalenesulfonate is not highly flammable but may burn under fire conditions.
Suitable extinguishing media:
Water spray, foam, dry chemical powder, or carbon dioxide (CO₂).
Hazardous combustion products:
Sulfur oxides, carbon oxides, and aromatic vapors.
Protective equipment for firefighters:
Self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing.
Special precautions:
Avoid inhalation of combustion fumes.
Accidental Release Measures of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
Personal precautions:
Avoid breathing dust.
Ensure adequate ventilation.
Use appropriate personal protective equipment.
Environmental precautions:
Prevent large quantities from entering drains or surface waters.
Methods for cleanup:
Sweep or vacuum spilled material using dust-minimizing methods.
Collect into suitable containers for disposal according to local regulations.
Wash contaminated area with water after cleanup.
Exposure Controls / Personal Protective Equipment of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
Occupational exposure limits:
Not established.
Engineering controls:
General ventilation is normally sufficient.
Use local exhaust ventilation where dust may be generated.
Personal protective equipment (PPE):
Respiratory protection:
Not normally required.
Use a dust mask if airborne dust is present.
Hand protection:
Protective gloves recommended for prolonged or repeated contact.
Eye protection:
Safety glasses or goggles recommended.
Skin protection:
Protective work clothing as appropriate.
Hygiene measures:
Wash hands after handling and before breaks.
Maintain good industrial hygiene practices.
Identifiers of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
CAS number: 7398-69-8
EC number: 230-904-6
Molecular formula: C₁₁H₉SO₃Na
Molecular weight: ~244.24 g/mol
IUPAC Name: 2-methylnaphthalene-1-sulfonic acid
Canonical SMILES: CC1=C(C2=CC=CC=C2C=C1)S(=O)(=O)O
InChI Key: WODGMMJHSAKKNF-UHFFFAOYSA-N
EC Number: 255-472-2
Exact Mass: 222.03500
H-Bond Acceptor: 3
H-Bond Donor: 1
Molecular formula: C11H9NaO3S
Average mass: 244.240
Monoisotopic mass: 244.017009
ChemSpider ID: 4576301
Product Name: Sodium naphthalene-1-sulfinate
CAS No.: 64326-13-2
Molecular Weight : 214.22
MDL No.: MFCD24113320
Purity/ Specification: 97%
Molecular Formula: C10H7NaO2S
Storage: Keep in dark place, inert atmosphere, room temperature
SMILES Code: O=S(C1=C2C=CC=CC2=CC=C1)[O-].[Na+]
Product Number: M1408
Purity / Analysis Method: >98.0%(T)(HPLC)
Molecular Formula / Molecular Weight: C4H7NaO3S = 158.15
Physical State (20 deg.C): Solid
Storage Temperature : Room Temperature
CAS RN: 1561-92-8
Reaxys Registry Number: 3722657
PubChem Substance ID: 87573357
MDL Number: MFCD00065344
Properties of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
Molecular Weight: 244.24 g/mol
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count: 0
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count: 3
Rotatable Bond Count: 1
Exact Mass: 244.01700960 Da
Monoisotopic Mass: 244.01700960 Da
Topological Polar Surface Area: 65.6 Ų
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.24 (PubChem release 2025.09.15)
Heavy Atom Count: 16
Complexity: 323
Isotope Atom Count: 0
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count: 0
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count: 2
Compound Is Canonicalized: Yes
Physical state: Solid
Assay: 95.00 to 100.00
Food Chemicals Codex Listed: No
Flash Point: 32.00 °F. TCC ( 0.00 °C. ) (est)
logP (o/w): 2.161 (est)
Specifications of Sodium Methylnaphthalenesulfonate:
Appearance: White to light brown powder or clear to slightly yellow liquid (grade dependent)
Chemical type: Anionic surfactant (alkyl naphthalene sulfonate)
Active matter: ≥ 90% (typical, grade dependent)
Solubility: Freely soluble in water
pH (10% aqueous solution): 7.0–9.0
Moisture content: ≤ 5% (solid grade, typical)
Density (liquid grade, 20–25 °C): ~1.1–1.2 g/cm³