CH32SO

CH32SO commonly refers to dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), a sulfoxide known as a versatile polar aprotic solvent. In condensed form, it is written as (CH3)2SO, and its chemical formula is C2H6OS with a molecular weight of 78.13 g/mol.

Key properties include a high boiling point of about 189°C and a melting point around -19°C, making it a liquid at room temperature that remains usable over a wide range of temperatures. DMSO is highly polar and hygroscopic, with a dielectric constant near 46–47 at room temperature. It is miscible with water and with many organic solvents, and it acts as a strong hydrogen-bond acceptor, which underpins its widespread solvating power for a broad spectrum of compounds.

Industrial production of DMSO typically involves the controlled catalytic oxidation of dimethyl sulfide with oxygen. The process emphasizes careful temperature management due to its exothermic nature and the need to prevent over-oxidation to sulfate.

Applications and uses are diverse: it serves as a solvent in chemical synthesis, pharmaceutical formulation, and materials science; it is commonly used to dissolve both organic and inorganic compounds, including some polymers and biologically active molecules. In biology and medicine, DMSO is employed for cryopreservation of cells and tissues, as a solvent or vehicle for drug delivery, and as a medium to enhance solubility of challenging compounds. It is also used in molecular biology to aid PCR by stabilizing templates and reducing secondary structure in GC-rich regions.

Safety and handling require caution: DMSO can irritate skin and eyes, and it can enhance the transdermal absorption of other chemicals. It should be stored in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry place away from oxidizers.