The present invention relates to a process for the production of alkanesulfonic
acid. More particularly, the present invention relates to a process for the production
of alkanesulfonic acid from alkyl mercaptan effluents generated in chemical industries.
The process of the invention comprises the oxidation of the entire alkyl mercaptan
generated as an effluent in the chemical industries to serve two concomitant purposes:
(1) complete removal of obnoxious odor, and (2) value addition by the production
of alkanesulfonic acids selectively in quantitative yields.
