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Ethyl thioglycolate

Updated: 2026-07-25

Overview

Ethyl Thioglycolate is an organosulfur compound widely used in industrial and laboratory settings. It is a derivative of thioglycolic acid, featuring a reactive thiol (-SH) group that makes it valuable for chemical synthesis. The compound is primarily utilized in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics (e.g., hair-waving products), and agrochemical formulations. Due to its strong odor and reactivity, Ethyl Thioglycolate requires careful handling. It is typically stored in airtight containers to prevent oxidation and degradation. Its versatility as a chemical intermediate has made it a staple in organic synthesis, particularly in reactions requiring thiol groups.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Ethyl Thioglycolate is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a pungent odor. It has a density of 1.097 g/cm³ and boils at 158-160°C. The compound is soluble in organic solvents like alcohol and ether but only slightly soluble in water. The thiol group in Ethyl Thioglycolate is highly reactive, making it prone to oxidation and nucleophilic substitution reactions. This reactivity is harnessed in synthetic chemistry to create sulfur-containing compounds. Its stability under controlled conditions allows for safe storage, though exposure to air or moisture should be minimized to prevent degradation.

Main Applications

In the pharmaceutical industry, Ethyl Thioglycolate serves as a building block for synthesizing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and intermediates. Its thiol group is instrumental in forming disulfide bonds, which are critical in drug design. The cosmetics industry uses Ethyl Thioglycolate in hair-waving and perming solutions, where it breaks and reforms disulfide bonds in keratin. Additionally, it finds applications in agrochemicals as a precursor for pesticides and herbicides. Research laboratories also employ it for organic synthesis and material science experiments.

Safety and Storage

Ethyl Thioglycolate is corrosive and can cause severe skin and eye irritation. Proper PPE, including gloves and goggles, is mandatory when handling this chemical. In case of exposure, rinse immediately with water and seek medical attention. Storage requires a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from oxidizers and heat sources. Containers should be tightly sealed to prevent air and moisture ingress. Spills should be neutralized with an appropriate absorbent and disposed of according to local regulations.

B2B Procurement Guide

When sourcing Ethyl Thioglycolate, verify the CAS number (623-51-8) and purity (typically ≥98%). Reputable suppliers should provide certificates of analysis (CoA) and material safety data sheets (MSDS). Bulk purchases may offer cost savings, but ensure proper storage facilities are available. Procurement professionals should assess supplier reliability, lead times, and compliance with international standards (e.g., REACH, ISO). Custom packaging options, such as drum sizes or smaller laboratory quantities, should be negotiated based on usage needs.

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