The Hydrolysis of Bis(2-chloroethyl) Sulfide (Sulfur Mustard) in Aqueous Mixtures of Ethanol, Acetone and Dimethyl Sulfoxide

Abstract

The rate of hydrolysis of bis (2-chloroethyl) sulfide (sulfur mustard) in aqueous mixtures of ethanol, acetone and dimethyl sulfoxide has been measured and compared with previously reported values. Rate constants in water at 25°C for the two consecutive hydrolysis reactions undergone by sulfur mustard were estimated to be (2.93±0.15)×10^-3 and (3.87±0.14)×10^-3 s^-1. Charge separation of 0.42 in the transition states was indicated together with significant solvation of the positive end of the transition state dipoles.