2-Mercaptoethanol

ALTERNATIVE NAMES
BME, beta-Mercaptoethanol, 2-ME, Thioglycol.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

CAS
60-24-2
EC
200-464-6
Food Code
-

2-Mercaptoethanol is a High-Purity industrial chemical used as a potent reducing agent. It is essential in biochemical research and chemical synthesis for breaking disulfide bonds and preventing protein oxidation.

This clear liquid features a 99% minimum assay and a characteristic strong odor. It is a critical intermediate in the production of agrochemicals and plastics, where it serves as a chain transfer agent.

As a commercially vital thiol, it provides superior reactive properties for the modification of polymers and resins. Its ability to control molecular weight during polymerization makes it indispensable in specialty plastic manufacturing.

2-Mercaptoethanol
  • Laboratory Research: Used in electrophoresis and protein purification to denature proteins and stabilize enzymes.
  • Agrochemical Synthesis: Acts as a building block for the production of pesticides and herbicides.
  • Polymer Processing: Serves as a chain transfer agent to regulate the molecular weight of acrylics and other resins.

Classified as Acute Toxic (Dermal/Oral/Inh) and Skin Corrosive. Mandatory use of Respirators, Chemical Suits, and Nitrile Gloves in a fume hood.

Supplied in 200 kg Steel Drums or specialized UN-approved fluorinated containers.

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