1,3-Propane sultone is the organosulfur compound with the formula (CH₂)₃SO₃. It is a cyclic sulfonate ester, a class of compounds called sultones. It is a readily melting colorless solid.

Properties

The solubility of 1,3-Propane sultone : soluble in water (100 g L−1); soluble in most organic solvents including THF, dioxane, DMF, and diethyl ether. Insoluble in hexane and other aliphatic hydrocarbons.

1,3-Propane sultone reacts slowly with water to give 3-hydroxopropanesulfonic acid. This reaction may be accelerated by acid. May react with strong reducing agents to give toxic and flammable hydrogen sulfide.

Uses

1,3-Propane sultone can be used as a protected form for sulfonic acid, sulfonamide, and sulfonate; is used for the functionalization of dyes, polymers, nucleosides, and proteins to improve their hydrophilicity; widely used for the preparation of different classes of surfactants.

Safety

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

Storage

1,3-Propane sultone should be protected from moisture. It reacts slowly with water to form 3‐hydroxypropanesulfonic acid. It emits toxic fumes of sulfur oxides on decomposition. 1,3‐Propanesultone is extremely carcinogenic and should be used in a hood and care should be taken while using this reagent.