Benzenesulfonyl chloride
Benzenesulfonyl chloride is an organosulfur compound with the formula C6H5SO2Cl. It is a colourless viscous oil that dissolves in organic solvents, but reacts with compounds containing reactive N-H and O-H bonds. It is mainly used to prepare sulfonamides and sulfonate esters by reactions with amines and alcohols, respectively. The closely related compound toluenesulfonyl chloride is often preferred analogue because it is a solid at room temperature and easier to handle.
Production
The compound is prepared by the chlorosulfonation of benzene:Benzenesulfonic acid is an intermediate in this conversion. Diphenylsulfone is a side product.
Benzenesulfonyl chloride can also be prepared by treating benzenesulfonate salts with phosphorus oxychloride.