Sodium 4-hydroxybenzenesulfonate

Sodium 4-hydroxybenzenesulfonate is a versatile organic compound widely used in chemical, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications. It is the sodium salt of 4-hydroxybenzenesulfonic acid and is known for its good water solubility, chemical stability, and functional hydroxyl and sulfonate groups that enable a range of chemical reactions.

1. Dye and Pigment Industry

One of the primary uses of sodium 4-hydroxybenzenesulfonate is in the synthesis of azo dyes and pigments. Its sulfonic acid group improves dye solubility in water and enhances dye–fiber interactions, making it valuable in textile and leather dyeing applications.

2. Pharmaceutical Intermediates

In the pharmaceutical sector, it serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of drug molecules. Its functional groups allow it to be used in sulfonation and coupling reactions in the preparation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and other biologically active compounds.

3. Electroplating and Surface Treatment

This compound is sometimes used in electroplating baths and metal surface treatments, where its sulfonic acid structure helps improve the conductivity and stability of electrochemical solutions.

4. Chemical Research and Development

Sodium 4-hydroxybenzenesulfonate is used in organic synthesis and analytical chemistry for developing new molecules or studying sulfonation mechanisms. It is a convenient starting material or reagent in lab-scale reactions.

5. Polymer and Resin Modification

It can also be used in modifying resins and polymers to introduce hydrophilic or ionic properties, which can enhance performance in coatings, adhesives, and ion-exchange materials.