1,3-Propane sultone


1,3-Propane sultone is the organosulfur compound with the formula 3SO3. It is a cyclic sulfonate ester, a class of compounds called sultones. It is a readily melting colorless solid.

Synthesis

It may be prepared by the acid catalyzed reaction of allyl alcohol and sodium bisulfite.

Reactions

1,3-propane sultone is an activated ester and is susceptible to nucleophilic attack. It hydrolyzes to the acid.
It has been used in the synthesis of specialist surfactants, such as CHAPS detergent.

Safety

Typical of activated esters, 1,3-propane sultone is an alkylating agent. 1,3-Propane sultone is toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic, and teratogenic.