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2-mercaptoethanol

CAS Number
60-24-2
EC Number
200-464-6
Chemical Formula
C2H6OS
Molecular Weight
78.14 g/mol

Description

2-Mercaptoethanol (CAS 60-24-2 ), commonly referred to as β-mercaptoethanol or BME, is a thiol-functional reducing agent used across industrial and research-grade applications. It breaks disulfide bonds in proteins and polymers, enabling controlled denaturation. Fiber modification and chemical synthesis are primary uses for this versatile compound. Procurement demand spans biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and personal care manufacturing sectors globally. It is essential for various industrial processes. In biotechnology and protein biochemistry, BME is a standard reagent for denaturing proteins prior to gel electrophoresis. It is also used for maintaining reduced thiol states in cell culture and buffer systems for research. Textile and leather processors use it to cleave disulfide linkages in keratin fibers. This enables permanent wave treatments, fiber softening, and chemical modification of wool during the manufacturing and treatment stages. In pharmaceutical synthesis, it functions as an intermediate in the production of thiol-containing active compounds. It also serves as a stabilizer in certain formulations to ensure product longevity and chemical integrity. Personal care manufacturers incorporate it into depilatory and hair-relaxing formulations where controlled keratin disruption is required. This application relies on the specific chemical properties of the thiol group. 2-Mercaptoethanol is supplied as a clear liquid, typically at 98–99% purity for technical and laboratory-grade applications. Reagent-grade and molecular biology-grade specifications are available to meet strict quality requirements. Bulk quantities are offered for industrial users, with smaller pack sizes standard for research and QC laboratory supply. The product is handled according to rigorous safety protocols to ensure consistent performance. Contact us for supply of 2-mercaptoethanol Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

β-mercaptoethanol | Beta-Mercaptoethanol | 2-Sulfhydryl-Ethanol | 2-hydroxy-1-ethanethiol | 2-Sulfanylethanol | Ethanol, 2-mercapto- | Thioethylene glycol | 2-Thioethanol

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

Physical Properties

Melting Point-100 °C
Boiling Point157 °C
Density1.1143 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point165 °F
AppearanceClear colorless liquid
ColorClear colorless to slightly yellow
OdorDisagreeable odor
Formliquid
Water Solubilitysoluble
Vapor Pressure1 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Indexn 20/D 1.500(lit.)
pH4.5-6 (500g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P-0.20

Safety & Handling

Danger
GHS05· CorrosiveGHS06· ToxicGHS07· IrritantGHS08· Health HazardGHS09· Environment

Hazard Statements

H227Combustible liquid
H301Toxic if swallowed
H310Fatal in contact with skin
H315Causes skin irritation
H319Causes serious eye irritation
H371May cause damage to organs
H373May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29309070
UN Number2966
ADR Class6.1
Packing GroupII
Storage Class6.1A - Combustible acute toxic Cat. 1 and 2 very toxic hazardous materials
WGK (Germany)3