5-Sulfosalicylic Acid Dihydrate (CAS 5965-83-3) is a chemical compound that plays a significant role across various scientific and industrial sectors. Understanding its chemical properties is fundamental for researchers and procurement specialists looking to leverage its capabilities. As a leading manufacturer and supplier, we provide insights into this versatile compound.

Key Chemical Properties: A Foundation for Application

At its core, 5-Sulfosalicylic Acid Dihydrate is characterized by its dual functional groups: a carboxylic acid group and a sulfonic acid group attached to a salicylic acid backbone. This unique structure confers several important properties:

  • Appearance: It typically presents as a white to off-white crystalline powder. This physical form is advantageous for handling, storage, and precise measurement in laboratory settings.
  • Acidity: The presence of both carboxylic and sulfonic acid groups makes it a strong acid. Its pH in aqueous solutions is very low (e.g., <0.5 at 200g/l in water), indicative of its acidic nature.
  • Solubility: It is highly soluble in water, which is essential for its use in aqueous solutions for analytical procedures and chemical reactions. It also exhibits solubility in polar solvents like alcohol and ether.
  • Metal Chelation: A key property is its ability to act as a polyfunctional metal chelating ligand. It readily forms coordination complexes with various metal ions, which is central to its use in analytical chemistry and certain industrial processes.
  • Stability: While generally stable, it is sensitive to light. Proper storage, away from direct light, is recommended to maintain its efficacy. It is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, a common consideration for many organic acids.
  • Melting Point: The melting point is typically in the range of 105-110 °C (literature values may vary slightly), indicating its solid state under standard ambient conditions.

Diverse Applications Driven by Properties

The unique chemical profile of 5-Sulfosalicylic Acid Dihydrate enables its widespread use:

1. Biochemical and Analytical Reagent: It is extensively used in laboratories for the precipitation of proteins. This makes it invaluable for urine analysis, specifically for the determination of urine protein content. Its efficacy in denaturing proteins is critical for qualitative and quantitative assessments.

2. Metal Ion Determination: As a complex indicator and colorimetric reagent, it is employed to accurately determine the concentration of various metal ions, such as ferric ion (Fe3+), aluminum (Al3+), and nitrates. This precision is vital for quality control in manufacturing and environmental monitoring.

3. Organic Synthesis Intermediate: It serves as a building block in the synthesis of other organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals and dyes. Manufacturers looking for reliable intermediates can buy 5-sulfosalicylic acid for their production processes.

4. Industrial Uses: Its utility extends to applications like cyanide-free silver plating solutions and as a lubricating grease additive. The stability and chelating properties are beneficial in these contexts.

As a dedicated manufacturer and supplier, we ensure that our 5-Sulfosalicylic Acid Dihydrate meets the high purity standards required for these diverse applications. For any scientist or procurement manager looking to purchase this essential chemical, understanding these properties is key to unlocking its full potential.