Use
PHENOLSULFONIC ACID is a strong acid. Reacts exothermically with chemical bases (for example: amines and inorganic hydroxides) to form salts. Dissolution in water or the dilution of a concentrated solutions with water may generate significant amounts of heat. Can serve as an oxidizing agent, but has a much weaker oxidizing action than sulfuric acid [Noller]. Can react with active metals, including iron and aluminum, and also many less active metals, to dissolve the metal and liberate hydrogen and/or toxic gases. Can initiate polymerization in certain classes of organic compounds. Reactions with cyanide salts and compounds release gaseous hydrogen cyanide. Flammable and/or toxic gases may be generated by reactions with dithiocarbamates, isocyanates, mercaptans, nitrides, nitriles, sulfides, and strong reducing agents. Additional gas-generating reactions occur with sulfites, nitrites, thiosulfates (to give H2S and SO3), dithionites (SO2), and even carbonates: the carbon dioxide gas from the last is nontoxic but the heat and spattering from the reaction can be troublesome. Can catalyze (increase the rate) of chemical reactions.