1,3-Propane sultone is used as a chemical intermediate to introduce sulfopropyl groups into molecules and to confer water solubility and anionic character. 

Sources and Potential Exposure

Occupational exposure to 1,3-propane sultone may occur during its manufacture and use.

Synthesis

1,3-Propane sultone 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 hydroxysulfonic acid.

It has been used in the synthesis of specialist surfactants, such as CHAPS detergent.

Human Exposure

1,3-Propane sultone is not known to occur naturally. Consumers could potentially be exposed to residues of 1,3-propane sultone when using detergents, corrosion inhibitors, and other products manufactured from it. The potential for occupational exposure is the highest for workers involved in the formulation of compounds made from it or the production of its end products.

Environmental Exposure

1,3-Propane sultone may be released to the environment as a result of its manufacture and use as an intermediate in the production of a large number of sulfopropylated products possibly including detergents, wetting agents, surfactants, dyes, soluble starches, cation-exchange resins, and insecticides.