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Thioglycolic acid

CAS Number
68-11-1
EC Number
200-677-4
Chemical Formula
C2H4O2S
Molecular Weight
92.12 g/mol

Description

Thioglycolic acid (CAS 68-11-1 ), also known as mercaptoacetic acid and commonly abbreviated as TGA, is an organosulfur acid used across industrial and consumer-facing manufacturing. It functions primarily as a reducing agent, stabilizer, and chemical intermediate in processes requiring controlled thiol reactivity. In personal care, TGA is the active ingredient in permanent wave solutions. It is used in depilatory creams, where it breaks disulfide bonds in keratin to reshape or dissolve hair. PVC stabilizer production relies on TGA as a key building block for tin and lead mercaptide heat stabilizers. These stabilizers prevent polymer degradation during processing. Leather processing uses TGA to assist in depilation and hide preparation, reducing reliance on sulfide-based alternatives in the tanning industry. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of active compounds. It also acts as a reagent in analytical testing for metal ion detection and laboratory research applications. Thioglycolic acid is supplied as a colorless to pale yellow liquid, typically at concentrations of 70%, 80%, and 99%+ for technical and high-purity grades. This ensures versatility for various industrial needs. Pharmaceutical-grade material is available to USP and BP specifications for regulated manufacturing environments. This high level of purity is essential for sensitive chemical synthesis. Technical-grade material is the standard for polymer stabilizer production and industrial leather processing. We provide consistent quality across all grades to meet specific manufacturing requirements. Contact us for supply of Thioglycolic acid Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

thiovanic acid | sulfanylacetic acid | alpha-mercaptoacetic acid | acetyl mercaptan | 2-thioglycolic acid | 2-mercaptoacetic acid | TGA | mercaptoacetic acid

Key Technical Features

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

Physical Properties

Melting Point-16.5 °C
Boiling Point120 °C @ Press: 20 Torr
Density1.3253 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point126 °C
AppearanceThioglycolic acid is a colorless liquid with a strong unpleasant odor like rotten eggs.
Colorclear clear, colorless
Odorstrong unpleasant odor
FormLiquid
Water Solubilitysoluble
Vapor Pressure0.4 mm Hg ( 25 °C)
Refractive Indexn 20/D 1.505(lit.)
pH1 (H2O, 20℃)
Log P0.090

Safety & Handling

Danger
GHS05· CorrosiveGHS06· ToxicGHS07· IrritantGHS08· Health Hazard

Hazard Statements

H301Toxic if swallowed
H311Toxic in contact with skin
H312Harmful in contact with skin
H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
H317May cause an allergic skin reaction
H318Causes serious eye damage
H330Fatal if inhaled
H331Toxic if inhaled
H332Harmful if inhaled
H370Causes damage to organs
H373May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure
H402Harmful to aquatic life
H412Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects

Precautionary Statements

P260Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P262Do not get in eyes, on skin, or on clothing.
P264Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P272Contaminated work clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace.
P273Avoid release to the environment.
P280Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P284In case of inadequate ventilation wear respiratory protection.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P319Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell.
P320Specific treatment is urgent (see … on this label).
P321Specific treatment (see … on this label).
P330Rinse mouth.
P363Wash contaminated clothing before reuse.
P405Store locked up.
P501Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
P265Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P352IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water.
P340IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P364Take off immediately all contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
P364Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
P233Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.
P331Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting.
P354IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29309070
UN Number1940
ADR Class8
Packing GroupII
Storage Class6.1C - Combustible acute toxic Cat.3 toxic compounds or compounds which causing chronic effects
WGK (Germany)1