684.    DEN OTTER, H. P.  [Mersol and Sodium Mersolsulfonic Acid.]  Chem. Weekblad, vol. 43, 1947, pp. 211-217, 276-282; Chem. Abs., vol. 41, 1947, p. 5327.

     Describes manufacture of Mersol by reaction of SO₂ and Cl with hydrocarbons produced by the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis.  Depending upon the reaction conditions, this produces Mersol D (50-60% of monosulfonyl chloride, 10-20% of di- and higher sulfonyl chlorides, and about 20% of unchanged hydrocarbon) or Mersol H₂ (about 50% monosulfonyl chloride and 50% of unchanged hydrocarbon).  Unchanged hydrocarbon is best removed by extraction with benzine; steam distillation is too expensive.  Production of Mersolat and its use as a detergent are described.