Potassium Thioglycolate
Potassium Mercaptoacetate, Mercaptoacetic Acid Potassium Salt, Thioglycolic Acid Potassium Salt, K-TGA
- CAS
- 34452-51-2
- EC
- 252-038-4
- Sectors
- Personal Care & Cosmetics, Textiles, Leather & Paper
Potassium Thioglycolate (CAS 34452-51-2) is a potassium salt of thioglycolic acid supplied as a clear faintly pink aqueous solution, typically at 30% to 43% concentration, that cleaves disulfide bonds in keratin and is used in depilatory and hair perming formulations and as a leather unhairing agent. It serves as a critical active ingredient in cosmetic formulations, offering rapid reaction rates and superior stability compared to other mercaptan derivatives.
Supplied as a high-purity aqueous solution, typically in concentrations ranging from 30% to 43%, ensuring precise formulation control for sensitive industrial applications. Its unique chemical profile functions effectively in high pH environments, making it ideal for aggressive yet controlled protein modification processes.
Beyond cosmetics, this compound acts as a potent metal precipitant and corrosion inhibitor in technical settings, reacting efficiently with heavy metals like molybdenum. Manufacturers value its low odor profile relative to ammonia-based alternatives, enhancing the final product's consumer appeal.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C2H4O2S.K |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 130.21 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear faintly pink solution |
| Form | Solution |
| Color | Clear faintly pink |
| Melting point | 226-229 °C |
| Density | 1.365[at 20°C] |
| Water solubility | 785.8g/L at 20°C |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Corrosive, Acute toxicity, Irritant / harmful, Health hazard |
| HS code | 29309099 |
| Grades available | Cosmetic Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Potassium Thioglycolate
Applications
- Depilatory Formulations:Acts as the primary active agent in hair removal creams, gels, and mousses by breaking down keratin's disulfide bridges to dissolve hair shafts.
- Hair Perming & Straightening: Used in "acid perm" solutions and straighteners to restructure hair fibers with reduced odor and scalp irritation compared to ammonium salts.
- Leather Processing: Functions as an effective unhairing agent for hides during the tanning process, facilitating cleaner leather preparation without damaging the skin structure.
- Microbiology Media: Utilized in Brewer's Anaerobic Agar and other growth media as a reducing agent to create oxygen-free environments for anaerobic bacteria.
Safety & Risks
Potassium Thioglycolate is classified as a skin sensitizer and may cause severe eye irritation or damage upon direct contact. Personnel must utilize chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and work in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of mists. Ingestion is harmful; handle strictly according to SDS guidelines to prevent allergic skin reactions.
Packaging
• 25 kg Plastic Drums / Jerricans
• 200 L PE Drums
• 1000 L IBC Totes
• Bulk / ISO Tank