top of page

2-Mercaptoethanol

CAS #:

60-24-2

Used as a reducing agent in organic reactions and for retarding oxidation of biological compounds in solutions.

2-Mercaptoethanol, also known as BME, is a potent chemical reducing agent used in breaking disulfide bonds in proteins. 2-Mercaptoethanol stands out as one of the best oilfield additives for oxidation and corrosion control. With strong reducing power, excellent thermal stability, and high compatibility, it provides a reliable, sulfur-free alternative to traditional sulfite-based reducers.


2-Merc is used industrially as a chain transfer agent in polymer and rubber production, a corrosion inhibitor, and a stabilizer in PVC manufacturing. It also functions as an intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals, including those used in agrochemicals, dyes, and pharmaceuticals, and has applications in metal finishing, water treatment, and as a component in cleaning agents and hair dyes.

General Info & Properties

  • Chemical Name: Monothioethylene glycol

  • Empirical Formula: HOCH2CH2SH

  • Appearance: Colorless, Transparent Liquid

  • Boiling Point: 157℃

Applications

Chemical and manufacturing

  • Polymerization: Acts as a chain transfer agent to control the molecular weight of polymers and rubber.

  • PVC stabilizer: Used as a tin stabilizer in the production of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC).

  • Intermediate: Serves as a raw material and intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals, such as antioxidants, dyes, and pharmaceuticals.

Metal and surface treatment

  • Corrosion inhibitor: Inhibits corrosion on metal surfaces, such as steel pipes.

  • Metal finishing: Used as a brightening agent in copper deposition and a tarnish remover for alloys and metals.

  • Mining: Can be used as an ore flotation agent.

Other industrial uses

  • Cleaning agents: Included in cleaning formulations due to its solubility and volatility.

  • Hair products: A component in hair permanent chemicals, hair dyes, and hair removal products.

  • Water treatment: Used in water treatment chemicals and products.

  • Agricultural industry: Utilized in the production of agrochemical intermediates.

Markets

Agriculture, Home Care, Intermediates, Mining, Oil & Gas, Personal Care, Pharma, Pulp & Paper, Water Treatment, CASE

Advantages

  • Effective at low concentrations due to strong reactivity with sulfur species

  • Provides both chemical scavenging and surface protection

  • Compatible with many common oilfield treatment formulations

Safety & Handling

2-Mercaptoethanol is toxic and corrosive, requiring careful handling with proper ventilation, PPE, and spill management. Its strong odor also limits its use to controlled industrial environments.

Packaging & Shipping

1.1 MT IBC Drums

bottom of page