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Methanesulfonic acid

CAS Number
75-75-2
EC Number
200-898-6
Chemical Formula
CH4O3S
Molecular Weight
96.11 g/mol
Industries:Water TreatmentPharmaceuticals & HealthcarePrinting & Packaging

Description

Methanesulfonic acid (CAS 75-75-2 ), commonly abbreviated as MSA, is a strong organic acid used across industrial and specialty chemical sectors. Unlike mineral acids, it combines high acidity with biodegradability and low oxidizing potential. This unique profile makes it a preferred acid catalyst and pH-regulating agent in demanding process environments. In pharmaceuticals, MSA is used to form mesylate salts of active pharmaceutical ingredients, improving solubility and bioavailability. These salts are essential for solid dosage formulations. Electronics manufacturers rely on it as an electrolyte component in tin, lead, and copper electroplating baths, where it delivers stable, high-purity metal deposits. In printing and packaging, it functions as a catalyst in UV-curable coatings and as an etching agent for circuit board production. Water treatment operations use MSA for pH adjustment and as a descaling agent. Its biodegradable profile offers a regulatory advantage over hydrochloric or sulfuric acid. Methanesulfonic acid is supplied as a colorless to pale yellow liquid, typically at 70% and 99%+ (anhydrous) concentrations. Pharmaceutical-grade material is available to meet USP and Ph. Eur. specifications. Technical-grade product serves industrial electroplating and catalysis applications, ensuring high performance across sectors. Bulk supply is standard in IBC containers and drummed quantities to meet global logistics needs. This versatile chemical remains a cornerstone for modern industrial synthesis and high-tech manufacturing processes. Contact us for supply of Methanesulfonic acid Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

methylsulfonic acid | MSA | Methanesulphonic acid | Kyselina methansulfonova | 12EH9M7279 | J1.465F

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

Physical Properties

Melting Point20 °C
Boiling Point167 °C @ Press: 10 Torr
Density1.4812 g/cm³ @ Temp: 18 °C
Flash Point>230 °F
Appearancecolourless or light yellow liquid
Colorbrown
FormSolution
Water SolubilityMiscible with water. Slightly miscible with benzene and toluene. Immiscible with paraffins.
Vapor Pressure1 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Indexn 20/D 1.429(lit.)

Safety & Handling

Danger
GHS05· CorrosiveGHS07· IrritantGHS06· ToxicGHS08· Health Hazard

Hazard Statements

H290May be corrosive to metals
H301Toxic if swallowed
H302Harmful if swallowed
H312Harmful in contact with skin
H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
H318Causes serious eye damage
H332Harmful if inhaled
H335May cause respiratory irritation
H361Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child H302+
H312Harmful if swallowed or in contact with skin

Precautionary Statements

P203Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P234Keep only in original packaging.
P260Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P280Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P318IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice.
P319Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell.
P321Specific treatment (see … on this label).
P330Rinse mouth.
P363Wash contaminated clothing before reuse.
P390Absorb spillage to prevent material damage.
P405Store locked up.
P406Store in a corrosion-resistant/… container with a resistant inner liner.
P501Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
P265Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P352IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water.
P340IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
P364Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
P233Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.
P331Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting.
P354IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29041000
UN Number3265
ADR Class8
Packing GroupII
Storage Class8A - Combustible corrosive hazardous materials
WGK (Germany)1