Sulfanilic acid (CAS 121-57-3)

Sulfanilic acid, also known as 4-aminobenzenesulfonic acid, is used as Ehrlich′s reagent for detection of nitrites. It is also a metabolite of Tartrazine. Sulfanilic acid, a synthetic intermediate, finds diverse applications in various fields. Its synthesis involves sulfonation of aniline with sulfuric acid. This synthetic organic compound plays a role in the production of optical brightening agents, synthetic organic dyes, food colorants, and additives. Appearing as a white powder with a faint purple tinge, or grayish-white flat crystals, Sulfanilic Acid becomes anhydrous at approximately 212°F. Furthermore, Sulfanilic acid, a derivative of aniline sulfonated at the para-position, serves multiple functions as a xenobiotic metabolite, a xenobiotic, an environmental contaminant, and an allergen. It acts as the conjugate acid of a 4-aminobenzenesulfonate. With its involvement in the synthesis of activated carbon for biodiesel preparation and various nanocomposites, Sulfanilic acid proves to be a versatile and indispensable compound in various industries.