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Beta-Mercaptoethanol

PubChem CID
1567
Structure
Beta-Mercaptoethanol_small.png
Beta-Mercaptoethanol_3D_Structure.png
Molecular Formula
Synonyms
  • 2-mercaptoethanol
  • Mercaptoethanol
  • 60-24-2
  • Beta-Mercaptoethanol
  • Thioglycol
Molecular Weight
78.14 g/mol
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Dates
  • Create:
    2004-09-16
  • Modify:
    2025-01-04
Description
Thioglycol appears as a water-white liquid. May be toxic by ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption.
Mercaptoethanol is a primary alcohol and an alkanethiol. It has a role as a geroprotector.
A water-soluble thiol derived from hydrogen sulfide and ethanol. It is used as a reducing agent for disulfide bonds and to protect sulfhydryl groups from oxidation.

1 Structures

1.1 2D Structure

Chemical Structure Depiction
Beta-Mercaptoethanol.png

1.2 3D Conformer

2 Names and Identifiers

2.1 Computed Descriptors

2.1.1 IUPAC Name

2-sulfanylethanol
Computed by Lexichem TK 2.7.0 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.2 InChI

InChI=1S/C2H6OS/c3-1-2-4/h3-4H,1-2H2
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.3 InChIKey

DGVVWUTYPXICAM-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.4 SMILES

C(CS)O
Computed by OEChem 2.3.0 (PubChem release 2024.12.12)

2.2 Molecular Formula

C2H6OS
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

C2H6OS

HSCH2CH2OH

2.3 Other Identifiers

2.3.1 CAS

60-24-2

2.3.2 Deprecated CAS

99748-78-4

2.3.3 European Community (EC) Number

2.3.4 UNII

2.3.5 UN Number

2.3.6 ChEBI ID

2.3.7 ChEMBL ID

2.3.8 DrugBank ID

2.3.9 DSSTox Substance ID

2.3.10 FEMA Number

2.3.11 HMDB ID

2.3.12 ICSC Number

2.3.13 JECFA Number

1925

2.3.14 KEGG ID

2.3.15 Metabolomics Workbench ID

2.3.16 Nikkaji Number

2.3.17 NSC Number

2.3.18 Wikidata

2.3.19 Wikipedia

2.4 Synonyms

2.4.1 MeSH Entry Terms

  • 2 Mercaptoethanol
  • 2-ME
  • 2-Mercaptoethanol
  • Mercaptoethanol

2.4.2 Depositor-Supplied Synonyms

3 Chemical and Physical Properties

3.1 Computed Properties

Property Name
Molecular Weight
Property Value
78.14 g/mol
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
XLogP3-AA
Property Value
-0.2
Reference
Computed by XLogP3 3.0 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
Property Value
2
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
Property Value
2
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Rotatable Bond Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Exact Mass
Property Value
78.01393598 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Monoisotopic Mass
Property Value
78.01393598 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Topological Polar Surface Area
Property Value
21.2 Ų
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Heavy Atom Count
Property Value
4
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Formal Charge
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Complexity
Property Value
10
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Isotope Atom Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Compound Is Canonicalized
Property Value
Yes
Reference
Computed by PubChem (release 2021.10.14)

3.2 Experimental Properties

3.2.1 Physical Description

Thioglycol appears as a water-white liquid. May be toxic by ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption.
Liquid
Water-white liquid with a disagreeable odor; [Hawley] Colorless liquid with a stench; [MSDSonline]
COLOURLESS LIQUID WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.
Clear colourless liquid; Very unpleasant odour

3.2.2 Color / Form

Water-white mobile liquid
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 14th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2001., p. 707

3.2.3 Odor

Strong disagreeable odor
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1050

3.2.4 Boiling Point

315 to 316 °F at 742 mmHg (decomposes) (NTP, 1992)
National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
158 °C
PhysProp
Decomp at bp 157-158 °C, 742 mm Hg
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1050
157 °C

3.2.5 Melting Point

-148 °F (NTP, 1992)
National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
< 25 °C
PhysProp

3.2.6 Flash Point

165 °F (NFPA, 2010)
National Fire Protection Association. 2010. Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials, 14th edition, edited by Guy R. Colonna. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association. Note that this information is subject to the copyright restrictions of the organization that provided the data.
74 °C
165 °F (74 °C) (open cup)
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 325-79
74 °C o.c.

3.2.7 Solubility

greater than or equal to 100 mg/mL at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)
National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
1000000 mg/L
MERCK INDEX (1996)
Miscible with alcohol, ether, and benzene /Pure liquid/
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1050
Miscible in most organic solvents.
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 14th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2001., p. 707
Miscible in water
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1050
Solubility in water: miscible
Practically insoluble or insoluble in water
Soluble (in ethanol)

3.2.8 Density

1.1143 at 68 °F (NTP, 1992) - Denser than water; will sink
National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
1.1143 at 20 °C/4 °C
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1050
Relative density (water = 1): 1.1
1.114-1.120 (20°)

3.2.9 Vapor Density

2.69 (NTP, 1992) - Heavier than air; will sink (Relative to Air)
National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
2.69 (Air = 1)
Lewis, R.J. Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 10th ed. Volumes 1-3 New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons Inc., 1999., p. V3: 2301
Relative vapor density (air = 1): 2.7 (calculated)

3.2.10 Vapor Pressure

1 mmHg at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)
National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
1.0 [mmHg]
1.756 mm Hg at 25 °C /Extrapolated/
Daubert, T.E., R.P. Danner. Physical and Thermodynamic Properties of Pure Chemicals Data Compilation. Washington, D.C.: Taylor and Francis, 1989.
Vapor pressure, kPa at 20 °C: 0.13

3.2.11 LogP

-0.3 (estimated)

3.2.12 Autoignition Temperature

295 °C

3.2.13 Decomposition

When heated to decomposition it emits highly toxic fumes of /sulfur oxides/.
Lewis, R.J. Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 9th ed. Volumes 1-3. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1996., p. 2113

3.2.14 Viscosity

3.43 cP
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 14th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2001., p. 707

3.2.15 Odor Threshold

Odor Threshold Low: 0.12 [mmHg]

Odor Threshold High: 0.64 [mmHg]

[Hawley] Odor threshold from CHEMINFO

0.38 mg/cu m (Odor low) 2.04 mg/cu m (Odor high)
Ruth JH; Am Ind Hyg Assoc J 47: A-142-51 (1986)
Odor perception threshold is 0.0001 ug/L.
Sheftel, V.O.; Indirect Food Additives and Polymers. Migration and Toxicology. Lewis Publishers, Boca Raton, FL. 2000., p. 750

3.2.16 Refractive Index

Index of refraction: 1.4996 at 20 °C/D
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1050
1.499-1.505

3.2.17 Dissociation Constants

pKa
9.72 (at 25 °C)
SERGEANT,EP & DEMPSEY,B (1979)
pKa = 9.72 at 25 °C (c = 0.00012 moles/L)
Serjeant, E.P., Dempsey B.; Ionisation Constants of Organic Acids in Aqueous Solution. International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). IUPAC Chemical Data Series No. 23, 1979. New York, New York: Pergamon Press, Inc., p. 34

3.2.18 Kovats Retention Index

Standard non-polar
722 , 717 , 717 , 725 , 724 , 724
Standard polar
1498 , 1498 , 1538 , 1501 , 1501

3.2.19 Other Experimental Properties

Heat ionization at 6.21 kcal mole
Serjeant, E.P., Dempsey B.; Ionisation Constants of Organic Acids in Aqueous Solution. International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). IUPAC Chemical Data Series No. 23, 1979. New York, New York: Pergamon Press, Inc., p. 34
9.29 lb/gal at 20 °C
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 14th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2001., p. 707
Freezing point: sets to a glass below -100 °C
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 14th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2001., p. 707

3.3 SpringerMaterials Properties

3.4 Chemical Classes

Other Classes -> Sulfur Compounds (Alcohols)

3.4.1 Drugs

Pharmaceuticals -> Listed in ZINC15
S55 | ZINC15PHARMA | Pharmaceuticals from ZINC15 | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.3247749

3.4.2 Food Additives

FLAVORING AGENT OR ADJUVANT -> FDA Substance added to food

4 Spectral Information

4.1 1D NMR Spectra

1 of 2
1D NMR Spectra
1H NMR: 6840 (Sadtler Research Laboratories Spectral Collection)
2 of 2
1D NMR Spectra

4.1.1 1H NMR Spectra

1 of 2
Instrument Name
Varian A-60
Source of Sample
The Matheson Company, Inc., East Rutherford, New Jersey
Copyright
Copyright © 2009-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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2 of 2
Source of Spectrum
Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC.
Source of Sample
Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC.
Catalog Number
M3701
Copyright
Copyright © 2021-2024 Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC. - Database Compilation Copyright © 2021 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.1.2 13C NMR Spectra

1 of 3
View All
13C NMR Spectra
13C NMR: 12 (Johnson and Jankowski, Carbon-13 NMR Spectra, John Wiley and Sons, New York)
2 of 3
View All
Source of Sample
Union Carbide Corporation, New York, New York
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.2 Mass Spectrometry

4.2.1 GC-MS

1 of 5
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NIST Number
341735
Library
Main library
Total Peaks
39
m/z Top Peak
60
m/z 2nd Highest
47
m/z 3rd Highest
48
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2 of 5
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NIST Number
19239
Library
Replicate library
Total Peaks
45
m/z Top Peak
60
m/z 2nd Highest
47
m/z 3rd Highest
48
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4.2.2 Other MS

1 of 4
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Other MS
MASS: 19239 (NIST/EPA/MSDC Mass Spectral Database, 1990 version)
2 of 4
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Authors
EPA CCTE and Agilent Technologies
Instrument Type
ESI-QTOF
MS Level
MS2
Ionization Mode
POSITIVE
Ionization
ESI
Collision Energy
10
Precursor m/z
79.021212
Precursor Adduct
[M+H]+
Top 5 Peaks

79.021212 999

63.997737 426

61.010647 129

62.018472 37

46.994997 30

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License
CC BY

4.3 IR Spectra

IR Spectra
IR: 15599 (Sadtler Research Laboratories IR Grating Collection)

4.3.1 FTIR Spectra

1 of 2
Instrument Name
Bruker IFS 85
Technique
Cell
Copyright
Copyright © 1989, 1990-2024 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA. All Rights Reserved.
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2 of 2
Technique
Layer between KBr
Source of Sample
Fluka
Copyright
Copyright © 1989, 1990-2024 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA. All Rights Reserved.
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4.3.2 ATR-IR Spectra

Source of Sample
Aldrich
Catalog Number
M3701
Copyright
Copyright © 2018-2024 Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC. - Database Compilation Copyright © 2018-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.3.3 Near IR Spectra

1 of 2
Instrument Name
INSTRUMENT PARAMETERS=INST=BRUKER,RSN=19571,REO=2,CNM=HEI,ZFF=2
Technique
NIR Spectrometer= BRUKER IFS 88
Source of Spectrum
Prof. Buback, University of Goettingen, Germany
Copyright
Copyright © 1989, 1990-2024 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA. All Rights Reserved.
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2 of 2
Instrument Name
INSTRUMENT PARAMETERS=INST=BRUKER,RSN=19571,REO=2,CNM=HEI,ZFF=2
Technique
NIR Spectrometer= BRUKER IFS 88
Source of Spectrum
Prof. Buback, University of Goettingen, Germany
Copyright
Copyright © 1989, 1990-2024 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA. All Rights Reserved.
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4.3.4 Vapor Phase IR Spectra

1 of 2
Instrument Name
DIGILAB FTS-14
Technique
Vapor Phase
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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2 of 2
Source of Spectrum
Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC.
Source of Sample
Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC.
Catalog Number
M3701
Copyright
Copyright © 2021-2024 Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC. - Database Compilation Copyright © 2021 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.4 Raman Spectra

Raman Spectra
RAMAN: 619 (Sadtler Research Laboratories Spectral Collection)

6 Chemical Vendors

7 Drug and Medication Information

7.1 Therapeutic Uses

... 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME) can enhance colony formation in vitro. In part, 2-ME can reverse the defect in T cell colony-forming cells (T-CFC) formation by overcoming the effect of suppressor cells. In a group of 46 AIDS patients, T-CFC formation was initially 42 +/- 8% (mean +/- s.e.) that of control levels. 2-ME caused an increase of 401 +/- 76% in T-CFC formation which was significantly greater than the increase in control T-CFC formation; it also significantly enhanced T-CFC formation by cells from ARC patients. Suppressor cell activity from ten AIDS patients decreased from 58 +/- 21% to 12 +/- 10% when 2-ME was added. Similar data were obtained from 14 ARC patients.
Wu J et al; Clin Exp Immunol 77 (1): 7-10 (1989)

8 Food Additives and Ingredients

8.1 Food Additive Classes

JECFA Functional Classes
Flavouring Agent -> FLAVOURING_AGENT;
Flavoring Agents

8.2 FEMA Flavor Profile

Grilled, Soup

8.3 FDA Substances Added to Food

Used for (Technical Effect)
FLAVORING AGENT OR ADJUVANT
Document Number (21 eCFR)
FEMA Number
4582
GRAS Number
24
JECFA Flavor Number
1925

8.4 Evaluations of the Joint FAO / WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives - JECFA

Chemical Name
2-HYDROXYETHANETHIOL
Evaluation Year
2010
ADI
No safety concern at current levels of intake when used as a flavouring agent
Tox Monograph

9 Pharmacology and Biochemistry

9.1 Absorption, Distribution and Excretion

Inhalation exposure increased organic sulfur elimination via the urine.
Sheftel, V.O.; Indirect Food Additives and Polymers. Migration and Toxicology. Lewis Publishers, Boca Raton, FL. 2000., p. 750

9.2 Metabolism / Metabolites

Simple aliphatic and aromatic thiols undergo S-methylation in mammals to produce the corresponding methyl thioether or sulfide. Methylation is catalysed by thiopurine methyltransferase in the cytoplasm and thiol methyltransferase in microsomes, and both reactions require S-adenosyl-l-methionine as a methyl group donor. Thiopurine methyltransferase is present in human liver, kidney, and erythrocytes; preferential substrates for this enzyme include aromatic and heterocyclic thiols. S-Methylation of aliphatic thiols is catalysed by microsomal thiol methyltransferase, and the resulting methyl thioether (sulfide) metabolite would undergo S-oxidation to give the methyl sulfoxide and methyl sulfone analogues as urinary products. Thiols may react with glutathione and other endogenous thiol substances to form mixed disulfides. Both microsomal and cytoplasmic thioltransferasess have been reported to catalyse the formation of mixed disulfides. The resulting mixed disulfides can undergo reduction back to thiols, oxidative desulfuration, or oxidation to a sulfonic acid via the intermediate thiosulfinate and sulfinic acids. The principal form in the circulation would probably be a mixed disulfide formed with albumin. /Simple thiols/
WHO; Food Additive Series 44: Safety Evaluation of Certain Food Additives and Contaminants: Simple Aliphatic and Aromatic Sulfides and Thiols (2000). Available from, as of June 3, 2005: https://www.inchem.org/documents/jecfa/jecmono/v44jec09.htm

9.3 Biochemical Reactions

10 Use and Manufacturing

10.1 Uses

EPA CPDat Chemical and Product Categories
The Chemical and Products Database, a resource for exposure-relevant data on chemicals in consumer products, Scientific Data, volume 5, Article number: 180125 (2018), DOI:10.1038/sdata.2018.125
Sources/Uses
Used to make dyestuffs, pharmaceuticals, rubber chemicals, flotation agents, insecticides, and plasticizers; Also used as solvent (dyestuffs), reducing agent, PVC stabilizer, and textile auxiliary; [Hawley]
Hawley - Lewis RJ. _Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary, _15th Ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons, 2007.
Solvent for dyestuffs, intermediate for producing dyestuffs, pharmaceuticals, rubber chemicals, flotation agents, insecticides, plasticizers, water-soluble reducing agent, biochemical reagent, PVC stabilizers, agricultural chemicals, textile auxiliary.
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 14th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2001., p. 707
In organic synthesis; as biochemical research tool.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1050

10.1.1 Use Classification

Flavouring Agent -> FLAVOURING_AGENT; -> JECFA Functional Classes
Flavoring Agents -> JECFA Flavorings Index
Hazard Classes and Categories -> Flammable - 2nd degree, Reactive - 1st degree

10.1.2 Industry Uses

  • Intermediates
  • Corrosion inhibitors and anti-scaling agents
  • Process regulators
  • Processing aids, specific to petroleum production

10.1.3 Consumer Uses

Corrosion inhibitors and anti-scaling agents

10.2 Methods of Manufacturing

Base-catalyzed cleavage of epoxides with hydrogen sulfide gives mercaptoalcohols. Symmetrical bis(1-hydroxyalkyl) sulfides are formed as byproducts. Inorganic bases, amines and anion exchange resins, zeolites, or guanidine can be used as catalysts. In industry, preparation of mercaptoethanol by addition of H2S to ethylene oxide is catalyzed by either a cation exchange resin or the byproduct thiodiglycol.
Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 6th ed.Vol 1: Federal Republic of Germany: Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. 2003 to Present, p. V36 629 (2003)

10.3 U.S. Production

Aggregated Product Volume

2019: 10,000,000 - <50,000,000 lb

2018: 10,000,000 - <50,000,000 lb

2017: 10,000,000 - <50,000,000 lb

2016: 10,000,000 - <50,000,000 lb

Ethanol, 2-mercapto- is listed as a High Production Volume (HPV) chemical (65FR81686). Chemicals listed as HPV were produced in or imported into the U.S. in >1 million pounds in 1990 and/or 1994. The HPV list is based on the 1990 Inventory Update Rule. (IUR) (40 CFR part 710 subpart B; 51FR21438).
EPA/Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program. Ethanol, 2-mercapto- (60-24-2). Available from, as of December 19, 2005: https://www.epa.gov/hpv/pubs/general/opptsrch.htm

10.4 General Manufacturing Information

Industry Processing Sectors
  • All Other Basic Organic Chemical Manufacturing
  • Plastics Material and Resin Manufacturing
  • All Other Chemical Product and Preparation Manufacturing
  • Oil and Gas Drilling, Extraction, and Support activities
EPA TSCA Commercial Activity Status
Ethanol, 2-mercapto-: ACTIVE
Hydrolysis product of the chemical warfare agent mustard gas
Sklyar VI et al; Appl Biochem Biotech 81: 107-17 (1999)
Thiols can be prepared by a variety of methods. The most-utilized of these synthetic methods for tertiary and secondary thiols is acid-catalyzed synthesis; for normal and secondary thiols, the most-utilized methods are free-radical-initiated, alcohol substitution, or halide substitution; for mercaptoalcohols, the most-utilized method is oxirane addition; and for mercaptoacids and mercaptonitriles, the most-utilized methods are Michael-type additions. /Thiols/
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 4th ed. Volumes 1: New York, NY. John Wiley and Sons, 1991-Present., p. V24 21 (1997)

11 Identification

11.1 Analytic Laboratory Methods

Gas-liquid chromatographic determination of 2-mercaptoethanol.
Choudhary G; J Chromatogr 200: 211 (1980)

12 Safety and Hazards

12.1 Hazards Identification

12.1.1 GHS Classification

1 of 2
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Note
Pictograms displayed are for 99.4% (765 of 770) of reports that indicate hazard statements. This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 0.6% (5 of 770) of reports.
Pictogram(s)
Corrosive
Acute Toxic
Irritant
Health Hazard
Environmental Hazard
Signal
Danger
GHS Hazard Statements

H301 (52.5%): Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H302 (46.9%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H310 (44.9%): Fatal in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H311 (54.4%): Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H314 (33.1%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H315 (66.1%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H317 (55.2%): May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]

H318 (65.7%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H331 (62.9%): Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H332 (28.6%): Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H361 (23.1%): Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child [Warning Reproductive toxicity]

H373 (50.8%): May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H400 (58.7%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410 (26.4%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

H411 (70.1%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

Precautionary Statement Codes

P203, P260, P261, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P272, P273, P280, P301+P316, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P318, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P333+P317, P361+P364, P362+P364, P363, P391, P403+P233, P405, and P501

(The corresponding statement to each P-code can be found at the GHS Classification page.)

ECHA C&L Notifications Summary

Aggregated GHS information provided per 770 reports by companies from 37 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 5 of 770 reports by companies. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

There are 36 notifications provided by 765 of 770 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown.

12.1.2 Hazard Classes and Categories

Acute Tox. 3 (52.5%)

Acute Tox. 4 (46.9%)

Acute Tox. 2 (44.9%)

Acute Tox. 3 (54.4%)

Skin Corr. 1B (33.1%)

Skin Irrit. 2 (66.1%)

Skin Sens. 1 (55.2%)

Eye Dam. 1 (65.7%)

Acute Tox. 3 (62.9%)

Acute Tox. 4 (28.6%)

Repr. 2 (23.1%)

STOT RE 2 (50.8%)

Aquatic Acute 1 (58.7%)

Aquatic Chronic 1 (26.4%)

Aquatic Chronic 2 (70.1%)

Flammable liquids - Category 4

Acute toxicity (Oral) - Category 3

Acute toxicity (Dermal) - Category 2

Skin corrosion/irritation - Category 2

Serious eye damage/eye irritation - Category 2

Specific target organ toxicity - Single exposure - Category 2 (central nervous system)

Specific target organ toxicity - Repeated exposure - Category 2 (liver)

Hazardous to the aquatic environment (Acute) - Category 1

Hazardous to the aquatic environment (Long-term) - Category 1

12.1.3 NFPA Hazard Classification

NFPA 704 Diamond
3-2-1
NFPA Health Rating
3 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause serious or permanent injury.
NFPA Fire Rating
2 - Materials that must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperatures before ignition can occur. Materials would not under normal conditions form hazardous atmospheres with air, but under high ambient temperatures or under moderate heating could release vapor in sufficient quantities to produce hazardous atmospheres with air.
NFPA Instability Rating
1 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable but that can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures.

12.1.4 Health Hazards

Excerpt from ERG Guide 153 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Combustible)]:

TOXIC and/or CORROSIVE; inhalation, ingestion or skin contact with material may cause severe injury or death. Methyl bromoacetate (UN2643) is an eye irritant/lachrymator (causes flow of tears). Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Avoid any skin contact. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause environmental contamination. (ERG, 2024)

ERG 2024, Guide 153 (Thioglycol)

· TOXIC and/or CORROSIVE; inhalation, ingestion or skin contact with material may cause severe injury or death.

· Methyl bromoacetate (UN2643) is an eye irritant/lachrymator (causes flow of tears).

· Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes.

· Avoid any skin contact.

· Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.

· Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause environmental contamination.

12.1.5 Fire Hazards

Excerpt from ERG Guide 153 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Combustible)]:

Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. When heated, vapors may form explosive mixtures with air: indoors, outdoors and sewers explosion hazards. Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Corrosives in contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways. Substance may be transported in a molten form. (ERG, 2024)

ERG 2024, Guide 153 (Thioglycol)

· Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily.

· When heated, vapors may form explosive mixtures with air: indoors, outdoors and sewers explosion hazards.

· Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire.

· Corrosives in contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas.

· Containers may explode when heated.

· Runoff may pollute waterways.

· Substance may be transported in a molten form.

Combustible. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire. Above 74 °C explosive vapour/air mixtures may be formed.

12.1.6 Hazards Summary

A skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant; Inhalation of high concentrations may cause CNS effects; [ICSC] Toxic by inhalation, ingestion, and skin absorption; [CAMEO] A corrosive substance that can cause injury to the skin and eyes; May cause skin sensitization; [CHEMINFO] A corrosive substance that can cause injury to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract; Inhalation may cause pulmonary edema; May be fatal by skin absorption; [MSDSonline] No injuries were reported to persons exposed after an accidental spill; Causes corneal scarring, severe skin irritation, and foci of hepatic necrosis in animal experiments; [AIHA]
AIHA - Workplace Environmental Exposure Level Guides, Complete Set and Update Set. Fairfax, VA: AIHA, 2008.
The major hazards encountered in the use and handling of 2-mercaptoethanol stem from its toxicologic properties. Toxic by all routes (ie, inhalation, ingestion, dermal contact), exposure to this water-white liquid, with a strong disagreeable odor, may occur from its use as a solvent for dyestuffs and as a chemical intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, rubber chemicals, flotation agents, biochemical reagents, insecticides, plasticizers, reducing agents, PVC stabilizers, and agricultural chemicals. Effects from exposure may include irritation of the eyes, nose, and skin, headache, dizziness, urinary disturbances, pulmonary edema, and respiratory distress or failure. In activities and situations where over-exposure may occur, wear a positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus, and protective clothing. If contact should occur, irrigate exposed eyes with copious amounts of tepid water for at least 15 minutes, and wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water. Contaminated clothing and shoes should be removed at the site. While 2-mercaptoethanol does not ignite easily, it may burn with the production of poisonous gases. For fires involving this substance, extinguish withdry chemical, CO2, water spray, fog, or regular foam. Small spills of this substance may be taken up with sand or other noncombustible absorbent and placed into containers for later disposal. Large spills should be diked far ahead of the spill for later disposal.

12.1.7 Fire Potential

Combustible
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on 2-Mercaptoethanol. (April 1997). Available from, as of June 6, 2005: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0916.htm
Above 74 °C explosive vapor/air mixtures may be formed.
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on 2-Mercaptoethanol. (April 1997). Available from, as of June 6, 2005: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0916.htm

12.1.8 Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Irritations

Irritating to eyes, nose and skin.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1050

12.2 Safety and Hazard Properties

12.2.1 Lower Explosive Limit (LEL)

2.3 % (NTP, 1992)
National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

12.2.2 Upper Explosive Limit (UEL)

18 % (NTP, 1992)
National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

12.2.3 Explosive Limits and Potential

Explosive limits , vol% in air: 2.3-18

12.3 First Aid Measures

Inhalation First Aid
Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention.
Skin First Aid
Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. Refer for medical attention .
Eye First Aid
First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.
Ingestion First Aid
Rinse mouth. Refer for medical attention .

12.3.1 First Aid

EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop.

SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital for treatment.

INHALATION: IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air. If symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in the mouth, throat, or chest) develop, call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital. Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be used; if not available, use a level of protection greater than or equal to that advised under Protective Clothing.

INGESTION: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center. Be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital if advised by a physician. If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, ensure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. (NTP, 1992)

National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
ERG 2024, Guide 153 (Thioglycol)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingestedor inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuouscompressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

Specific First Aid:

· For corrosives, in case of contact, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 30 minutes. Additional flushing may be required.

· Removal of solidified molten material from skin requires medical assistance.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

12.4 Fire Fighting

Excerpt from ERG Guide 153 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Combustible)]:

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

LARGE FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2, alcohol-resistant foam or water spray. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. (ERG, 2024)

Use water spray, powder, foam, carbon dioxide.

12.4.1 Fire Fighting Procedures

Alcohol foam
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 12 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 1997., p. 325-64
To fight fire use alcohol foam, CO2, or dry chemical.
Lewis, R.J. Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 9th ed. Volumes 1-3. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1996., p. 2113

12.5 Accidental Release Measures

Public Safety: ERG 2024, Guide 153 (Thioglycol)

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

Spill or Leak: ERG 2024, Guide 153 (Thioglycol)

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.

· Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.

· Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers.

· DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS.

12.5.1 Isolation and Evacuation

Excerpt from ERG Guide 153 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Combustible)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

SPILL: Increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Evacuation: ERG 2024, Guide 153 (Thioglycol)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

Spill

· For highlighted materials: see Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances.

· For non-highlighted materials: increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

Fire

· If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

12.5.2 Spillage Disposal

Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

12.5.3 Cleanup Methods

Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent and remove to safe place.
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on 2-Mercaptoethanol. (April 1997). Available from, as of June 6, 2005: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0916.htm

12.5.4 Disposal Methods

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational exposure or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic, and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

12.5.5 Preventive Measures

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses in industry is conflicting. The benefit or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on 2-Mercaptoethanol. (April 1997). Available from, as of June 6, 2005: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0916.htm
/First aid/: Remove contaminated clothes, rinse skin with plenty of water or shower, refer for medical attention.
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on 2-Mercaptoethanol. (April 1997). Available from, as of June 6, 2005: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0916.htm
/If contacted with eyes/, first rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then take to a doctor.
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on 2-Mercaptoethanol. (April 1997). Available from, as of June 6, 2005: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0916.htm
For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for 2-MERCAPTOETHANOL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12.6 Handling and Storage

12.6.1 Nonfire Spill Response

Excerpt from ERG Guide 153 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Combustible)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. (ERG, 2024)

12.6.2 Safe Storage

Separated from oxidants, metals and food and feedstuffs. Keep in a well-ventilated room.

12.6.3 Storage Conditions

Separated from oxidants, metals, food and feedstuffs. Keep in a well-ventilated room.
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on 2-Mercaptoethanol. (April 1997). Available from, as of June 6, 2005: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0916.htm

12.7 Exposure Control and Personal Protection

Protective Clothing: ERG 2024, Guide 153 (Thioglycol)

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE.

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

12.7.1 Emergency Response Planning Guidelines

Emergency Response: ERG 2024, Guide 153 (Thioglycol)

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

Large Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2, alcohol-resistant foam or water spray.

· If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

· Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

· Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles.

· Do not get water inside containers.

· Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

· Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.

· ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames.

12.7.2 Other Standards Regulations and Guidelines

Workplace Environmental Exposure Level (WEEL): 8-hr Time-weighted Average (TWA) 0.2 ppm, skin.
American Industrial Hygiene Association. The AIHA 1999 Emergency Response Planning Guidelines and Workplace Environmental Exposure Level Guides Handbook. American Industrial Hygiene Association. Fairfax, VA 1999., p. 40

12.7.3 Inhalation Risk

No indication can be given about the rate at which a harmful concentration of this substance in the air is reached on evaporation at 20 °C.

12.7.4 Effects of Short Term Exposure

The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system.

12.7.5 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 153 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Combustible)]:

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection. (ERG, 2024)

/Wear/ protective gloves, protective clothing, face shield, or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on 2-Mercaptoethanol. (April 1997). Available from, as of June 6, 2005: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0916.htm

12.7.6 Preventions

Fire Prevention
NO open flames. Above 74 °C use a closed system and ventilation.
Exposure Prevention
PREVENT GENERATION OF MISTS!
Inhalation Prevention
Use ventilation, local exhaust or breathing protection.
Skin Prevention
Protective gloves. Protective clothing.
Eye Prevention
Wear face shield or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.
Ingestion Prevention
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

12.8 Stability and Reactivity

12.8.1 Air and Water Reactions

No rapid reaction with air. No rapid reaction with water.

12.8.2 Reactive Group

Alcohols and Polyols

Sulfides, Organic

12.8.3 Reactivity Profile

Organosulfides, such as THIOGLYCOL, are incompatible with acids, diazo and azo compounds, halocarbons, isocyanates, aldehydes, alkali metals, nitrides, hydrides, and other strong reducing agents. Reactions with these materials generate heat and in many cases hydrogen gas. Many of these compounds may liberate hydrogen sulfide upon decomposition or reaction with an acid.

12.8.4 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities

Reacts with oxidants and metals.
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on 2-Mercaptoethanol. (April 1997). Available from, as of June 6, 2005: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0916.htm

12.9 Transport Information

12.9.1 DOT Emergency Guidelines

/GUIDE 153: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC and/or CORROSIVE (Combustible)/ Fire or Explosion: Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. When heated, vapors may form explosive mixtures with air: indoors, outdoors and sewers explosion hazards. Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways. Substance may be transported in a molten form.
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2012 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2012
/GUIDE 153: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC and/or CORROSIVE (Combustible)/ Health: TOXIC; inhalation, ingestion or skin contact with material may cause severe injury or death. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Avoid any skin contact. Effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution.
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2012 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2012
/GUIDE 153: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC and/or CORROSIVE (Combustible)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover. As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate enclosed areas.
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2012 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2012
/GUIDE 153: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC and/or CORROSIVE (Combustible)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is possible.
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2012 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2012
For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for 2-MERCAPTOETHANOL (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12.9.2 Shipping Name / Number DOT/UN/NA/IMO

UN 2966; Thioglycol
IMO 6.1; Thioglycol

12.9.3 Shipment Methods and Regulations

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./
49 CFR 171.2; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 5, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials.
IATA. Dangerous Goods Regulations. 45 th Ed. Montreal, Canada and Geneva, Switzerland. International Air Transport Association. Dangerous Goods Regulations, 2004., p. 238
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article.
IMDG; International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code; International Maritime Organization p.6267 (1998)

12.9.4 DOT Label

Poison

12.9.5 Packaging and Labelling

Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.

12.9.6 UN Classification

UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Pack Group: I

12.10 Regulatory Information

The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Chemical: Ethanol, 2-mercapto-
REACH Registered Substance
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status
Ethanol, 2-mercapto-: HSNO Approval: HSR003600 Approved with controls

13 Toxicity

13.1 Toxicological Information

13.1.1 Exposure Routes

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its vapour, through the skin and by ingestion.

13.1.2 Symptoms

Inhalation Exposure
Shortness of breath.
Skin Exposure
Redness. Pain.

13.1.3 Adverse Effects

Neurotoxin - Other CNS neurotoxin

Occupational hepatotoxin - Secondary hepatotoxins: the potential for toxic effect in the occupational setting is based on cases of poisoning by human ingestion or animal experimentation.

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

Skin Sensitizer - An agent that can induce an allergic reaction in the skin.

Toxic Pneumonitis - Inflammation of the lungs induced by inhalation of metal fumes or toxic gases and vapors.

13.1.4 Acute Effects

13.1.5 Toxicity Data

LCLo (rat) = 250 ppm/8h

13.1.6 Interactions

Sulfhydryl agents, /including/ mercaptoethanol, increase non-specifically the potency of various agonists (acetylcholine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, nicotine, bradykinin, prostaglandin E2) on the guinea pig ileum. These effects are of non-cholinergic origin and are not related to prostaglandin synthesis. Sulfydryl agents act directly on the smooth muscle cells of the guinea pig ileum most probably by reducing disulfide bonds located on the membrane surface and by this mechanism modulate the muscular contractile activity.
Fontaine J et al; J Pharm Pharmacol 36 (7): 450-3 (1984)
The negative inotropic effect produced by low concentration of mercaptoethanol on isolated frog heart was blocked by pretreatment with atropine.
Kawai Y et al; Kurume Igakkai Zasshi 43 (2): 362 (1980)
2-Mercaptoethanol induced arteriosclerosis and endothelial cell cytotoxicity in baboons were inhibited by sulfinpyrazone.
Harker LA et al; New Approach Reduct Card Death, Int Symp 59 (1979)
... A reduction in SCE frequency was observed when cells were cultured with 20 microM 2-Mercaptoethanol (2-ME )and IL-2 compared to interleukin-2 (IL-2) alone. Three nuclear proteins, with relative molecular masses of approximately 13,000-18,000, 20,000, and 80,000, were phosphorylated in IL-2-exposed G1-phase nuclei. Elicitation of these nuclear proteins in IL-2-exposed cells was not affected by exposure to 2-ME.
Morris SM et al; Environ Mol Mutagen 15 (1): 10-8 (1990)
...The effect of NaBu plus IL-2 was markedly augmented by 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME), which showed a slight or null effect on the response of untreated, IL-2-treated or NaBu-treated B cells, as assessed by both anti-TNP plaque-forming cell assay and anti-TNP IgM ELISA. ... 2-ME enhanced the anti-TNP antibody production induced by other short-chain fatty acids with three to five carbon atoms plus IL-2. The proliferation of B cells was significantly inhibited by NaBu or NaBu plus IL-2, and the proliferation was completely restored by the simultaneous addition of 2-ME.
Gohda E et al; Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 25 (4): 539-50 (2003)

13.1.7 Antidote and Emergency Treatment

/SRP:/ Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway. Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with normal saline during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 m1/kg up to 200 ml of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool ... . Administer activated charcoal ... . Cover skin burns with dry sterile dressings after decontamination ... . /Sulfur and related compounds/
Bronstein, A.C., P.L. Currance; Emergency Care for Hazardous Materials Exposure. 2nd ed. St. Louis, MO. Mosby Lifeline. 1994., p. 433-4
/SRP:/ Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious. Early intubation at the first sign of upper airway obstruction may be necessary. Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... . Start an IV with D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use lactated Ringer's if signs of hypovolemia are present. Watch for signs of fluid overload. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Treat seizures with diazepam ... . For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors for hypotension with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Sulfur and related compounds/
Bronstein, A.C., P.L. Currance; Emergency Care for Hazardous Materials Exposure. 2nd ed. St. Louis, MO. Mosby Lifeline. 1994., p. 434

13.1.8 Human Toxicity Excerpts

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ /2-Mercaptoethanol causes/ redness and pain in eyes and skin. .../Causes/ shortness of breath /via/ inhalation. The substance may cause effects on central nervous system.
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on 2-Mercaptoethanol. (April 1997). Available from, as of June 6, 2005: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0916.htm

13.1.9 Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ 2-Mercaptoethanol applied undiluted to the rabbit eye is toxic to the conjunctiva and causes long-lasting moderately severe corneal opacity.
Grant, W.M. Toxicology of the Eye. 3rd ed. Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas Publisher, 1986., p. 579
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Chronic Exposure or Carcinogenicity/ Chronic iv administration of 2-mercaptoethanol produced arteriosclerosis in baboons. It was also cytotoxic to endothelial cells in vitro.
Harker LA et al; New Approach Reduct Card Death, Int Symp 59 (1979)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Chronic Exposure or Carcinogenicity/ Female RLEF1/Lati rats were chronically treated with 2-mercaptoethanol in a dose of 13 micrograms/100 g bw-1/day-1 dissolved in drinking water. During a 48-h experiment 15N-labelled glycine was given orally in a dose of 5 mg 15N.kg bw-1 and urine samples were collected and analysed by an emission spectrometric isotope method. Protein synthesis and nitrogen excretion rate constants were calculated according to the three-pool model, and 3-methylhistidine excretion rates were also determined. 2-Mercaptoethanol appears to influence protein metabolism; however, the slower rates of protein synthesis proved to be apparent in almost all groups of treated rats. Protein synthesis and nitrogen excretion rate constants have exceptionally high values in 2-year-old rats, possibly explained by the occurrence of hypercompensation mechanisms in old age. These were reflected by the excretion rates of 3-methylhistidine which were reduced as a result of sulphhydryl group interactions in age-dependent cellular metabolic changes.
Albrecht V et al; J Comp Physiol 162 (6): 547-51 (1992)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Chronic Exposure or Carcinogenicity/ In old CBA/Ca mice the effect of cigarette smoke was compared with that of 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME) treatment. It could be stated that spontaneous death was more frequent in animals kept in cigarette smoke than in the control animals. Prevalence of hepatocellular carcinoma was higher in animals kept in cigarette smoke than in the controls. After 2-ME treatment the occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma was significantly lower and animals without disorders were more frequent than in smokers. Body weights were lower in animals kept in cigarette smoke and differences in organ indices could be observed, too. Immunological changes were also demonstrated: in mice kept in cigarette smoke the reactivity against a foreign antigen such as sheep erythrocytes (SRBC) was lower, while after 2-ME treatment it was higher than in their controls using direct plaque formation technique. The ratio of normal reactivity (against SRBC) and autoreactivity (against mouse erythrocytes) showed a decrease in smoker animals, and an increase in the 2-ME-treated ones. The experiments showed a deleterious effect of cigarette smoke and a beneficial effect of 2-ME on age-related alterations.
Beregi E et al; Gerontology 37 (6): 326-34 (1991)
For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for 2-MERCAPTOETHANOL (14 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.1.10 Non-Human Toxicity Values

LD50 Mouse ip 200 mg/kg
European Chemicals Bureau; IUCLID Dataset, 2- Mercaptoethanol (60-24-2) (2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from, as of June 6, 2005: https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
LD50 Mouse iv 480 mg/kg
European Chemicals Bureau; IUCLID Dataset, 2- Mercaptoethanol (60-24-2) (2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from, as of June 6, 2005: https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
LD50 Mouse oral 190 mg/kg bw
European Chemicals Bureau; IUCLID Dataset, 2- Mercaptoethanol (60-24-2) (2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from, as of June 6, 2005: https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
LD50 Rat oral 244 mg/kg
Lewis, R.J. Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 9th ed. Volumes 1-3. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1996., p. 2113
For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for 2-MERCAPTOETHANOL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.2 Ecological Information

13.2.1 Ecotoxicity Values

LC50 Poecilia reticulata (Guppy) 187 mg/L/24 hr /formulated product/ /Conditions of bioassay not specified in source examined/
Yarzhombek AA et al; J Ichthyol 31 (7): 99-106 (1986). ECOTOX database on 2-Mercaptoethanol (60-24-2). Available from, as of June 1, 2005
EC50 Pseudomonas putida (cell multiplic. inhib. test) 125 mg/L/17 hr
Verschueren, K. Handbook of Environmental Data on Organic Chemicals. Volumes 1-2. 4th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, NY. 2001, p. 1411
EC50 Scenedesmus subspicatus (cell multiplic. inhib. test) 12 mg/L/72 hr
Verschueren, K. Handbook of Environmental Data on Organic Chemicals. Volumes 1-2. 4th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, NY. 2001, p. 1411
EC50 Daphnia magna (Straus) 3.2 mg/L/24 hr; toxic effect: immobilization /Conditions of bioassay not specified in source examined/
Verschueren, K. Handbook of Environmental Data on Organic Chemicals. Volumes 1-2. 4th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, NY. 2001, p. 1411
For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for 2-MERCAPTOETHANOL (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.2.2 Environmental Fate / Exposure Summary

2-Mercaptoethanol's production and use as solvent for dyestuffs, intermediate for producing dyestuffs, pharmaceuticals, rubber chemicals, flotation agents, insecticides, plasticizers, water-soluble reducing agent, biochemical reagent, PVC stabilizers, agricultural chemicals, and textile auxiliary may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. It is a hydrolysis product of the chemical warfare agent mustard gas. 2-Mercaptoethanol is formed through the decomposition of naturally occurring products such as swine manure and proteins (produced by marine algae and other marine plants). If released to air, an extrapolated vapor pressure of 1.76 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates 2-mercaptoethanol will exist solely as a vapor. Vapor-phase 2-mercaptoethanol will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 8.5 hours. 2-Mercaptoethanol does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, 2-mercaptoethanol is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 1.3. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 1.8X10-7 atm-cu m/mole. 2-Mercaptoethanol may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. A 29% biomineralization after 55 days under methanogenic conditions indicates that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in anoxic environments. If released into water, 2-mercaptoethanol is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. An estimated BCF of 3.0 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions. Occupational exposure to 2-mercaptoethanol may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where 2-mercaptoethanol is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to 2-mercaptoethanol via dermal contact with this compound and other products containing 2-mercaptoethanol. (SRC)

13.2.3 Natural Pollution Sources

2-Mercaptoethanol has been identified as one of volatile substances evolved from aerobic and anaerobic microbial decomposition of liquid swine manure(1).
(1) Mehlorn G et al; Proc Int Kongr Tarhyg, 5th 2: 725-30 (1985)

13.2.4 Artificial Pollution Sources

2-Mercaptoethanol's production and use as a solvent for dyestuffs, intermediate for producing dyestuffs, pharmaceuticals, rubber chemicals, flotation agents, insecticides, plasticizers, water-soluble reducing agent, biochemical reagent, PVC stabilizers, agricultural chemicals, and textile auxiliary(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). 2-Mercaptoethanol is a hydrolysis product of the chemical warfare agent mustard gas(2).
(1) Lewis RJ Sr, ed; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 14th Ed. NY, NY: John Wiley and Sons, Inc. P. 707 (2001)
(2) Sklyar VI et al; Appl Biochem Biotech 81: 107-17 (1999)

13.2.5 Environmental Fate

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 1.3(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that 2-mercaptoethanol is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of 2-mercaptoethanol from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 1.8X10-7 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its extrapolated vapor pressure, 1.76 mm Hg(4), and an assigned value for water solubility of 1.00X10+6 mg/L (miscible)(3). 2-Mercaptoethanol is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(4). A 29% biomineralization after 55 days under methanogenic conditions(5) indicates that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in anoxic soil environments(SRC).
(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)
(2) Meylan WM et al; Environ Sci Technol 26: 1560-67 (1992)
(3) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 13th ed Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., p. 1050 (2001)
(4) Daubert TE, Danner RP; Physical and Thermodynamic Properties of Pure Chemicals Data Compilation. Washington, DC: Taylor and Francis (1989)
(5) Sklyar VI et al; Appl Biochem Biotech 81: 107-17 (1999)
AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 1.3(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that 2-mercaptoethanol is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 1.8X10-7 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 1.76 mm Hg(4), and assigned water solubility(5). According to a classification scheme(6), an estimated BCF of 3.0(SRC), from an estimated log Kow of -0.20(7) and a regression-derived equation(8), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). A 29% biomineralization after 55 days under methanogenic conditions(9) indicates that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in anoxic aquatic environments(SRC).
(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)
(2) Meylan WM et al; Environ Sci Technol 26: 1560-67 (1992)
(3) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 4-9, 15-1 to 15-29, 5-5 (1990)
(4) Daubert TE, Danner RP; Physical and Thermodynamic Properties of Pure Chemicals Data Compilation. Washington, DC: Taylor and Francis (1989)
(5) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 13th ed Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., p. 1050 (2001)
(6) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994)
(7) Meylan WM, Howard PH; J Pharm Sci 84: 83-92 (1995)
(8) Meylan WM et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 18: 664-72 (1999)
(9) Sklyar VI et al; Appl Biochem Biotech 81: 107-17 (1999)
ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), 2-mercaptoethanol, which has an extrapolated vapor pressure of 1.76 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 2-mercaptoethanol is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 8.5 hours(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 4.6X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(3). 2-Mercaptoethanol does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).
(1) Bidleman TF; Environ Sci Technol 22: 361-367 (1988)
(2) Daubert TE, Danner RP; Physical and Thermodynamic Properties of Pure Chemicals Data Compilation. Washington, DC: Taylor and Francis (1989)
(3) Meylan WM, Howard PH; Chemosphere 26: 2293-99 (1993)

13.2.6 Environmental Biodegradation

ANAEROBIC: 2-Mercaptoethanol, was shown to be biomineralized under methanogenic conditions(1). 2-Mercaptoethanol, present at 100 mg/L reached 29% biodegradation in 55 days using 120 mL flasks containing sludge from an upflow anaerobic blanket reactor treating liquid hen manure at 1 g volatile suspended solids (VSS)/L, 0.4 g Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), basal medium, and incubated at 30 °C(1). Therefore, this compound is not expected to biodegrade rapidly under anaerobic conditions(SRC). Addition of cosubstrates, glucose or a combination of propionic or butyric acids, did not affect the rate of degradation(1). The compound is moderately toxic to microorganisms(1).
(1) Sklyar VI et al; Appl Biochem Biotech 81: 107-17 (1999)

13.2.7 Environmental Abiotic Degradation

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of 2-mercaptoethanol with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 4.6X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 8.5 hours at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). The rate constant for the reaction between hydroxyl radicals and 2-mercaptoethanol in aqueous solution at pH 6.5 has been experimentally determined to be 6.8X10+9/M-sec(2); assuming that the hydroxyl radical concentration of brightly sunlit natural water is 1X10-17 M(3), the half-life for this reaction would be 118 days(SRC). 2-Mercaptoethanol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups(4). 2-Mercaptoethanol does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).
(1) Meylan WM, Howard PH; Chemosphere 26: 2293-99 (1993)
(2) Buxton GV et al; J Phys Chem Ref Data 17: 733 (1988)
(3) Mill T et al; Science 207: 886-7 (1980)
(4) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 7-4, 7-5 (1990)

13.2.8 Environmental Bioconcentration

An estimated BCF of 3.0 was calculated for 2-mercaptoethanol(SRC), using an estimated log Kow of -0.20(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).
(1) Meylan WM, Howard PH; J Pharm Sci 84: 83-92 (1995)
(2) Meylan WM et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 18: 664-72 (1999)
(3) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994)

13.2.9 Soil Adsorption / Mobility

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of 2-mercaptoethanol can be estimated to be 1.3(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that 2-mercaptoethanol is expected to have very high mobility in soil.
(1) Meylan WM et al; Environ Sci Technol 26: 1560-67 (1992)
(2) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)
(3) Doucette WJ; pp. 141-188 in Handbook of Property Estimation Methods for Chemicals. Boethling RS, Mackay D, eds. Boca Raton, FL: Lewis Publ (2000)

13.2.10 Volatilization from Water / Soil

The Henry's Law constant for 2-mercaptoehtanol is estimated as 1.8X10-7 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 1.76 mm Hg(1), and an assigned value for water solubility of 1.00X10+6 mg/L (miscible)(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that 2-mercaptoethanol is expected to be essentially nonvolatile from water surfaces(3). 2-Mercaptoethanol's estimated Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may not occur(SRC). 2-Mercaptoethanol is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its extrapolated vapor pressure(1).
(1) Daubert TE, Danner RP; Physical and Thermodynamic Properties of Pure Chemicals Data Compilation. Washington, DC: Taylor and Francis (1989)
(2) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 13th ed Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., p. 1050 (2001)
(3) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 15-1 to 15-29 (1990)

13.2.11 Sediment / Soil Concentrations

2-Mercaptoethanol and other thiol concentrations of less than 100 uM were detected in intertidal marine sediments from Biscayne Bay, FL(1); the presence of the thiols was attributed to protein degradation, where the protein source was marine algae and other higher plants(1).
(1) Mooper K, Taylor BF; ACS Symp Ser 305 (Org Mar Geochem): 324-39 (1986)

13.2.12 Food Survey Values

2-Mercaptoethanol concentrations of 0.01 ppb or less were detected in samples of German wines(1).
(1) Rapp A et al; Am J Enol Vitic 36: 219-21 (1985)

13.2.13 Probable Routes of Human Exposure

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 14,140 workers (4,607 of these are female) are potentially exposed to 2-mercaptoethanol in the US(1). Occupational exposure to 2-mercaptoethanol may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where 2-mercaptoethanol is produced or used(SRC). Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to 2-mercaptoethanol via dermal contact with this compound and other products containing 2-mercaptoethanol(SRC).
(1) NIOSH; International Safety Cards. 2-mercaptoethanol. 60-24-2. Available at http//www.cdc.gov/niosh/ipcs/nicstart.html as of Jun 29, 2005.

14 Associated Disorders and Diseases

Associated Occupational Diseases with Exposure to the Compound
Contact dermatitis, allergic [Category: Skin Disease]

15 Literature

15.1 Consolidated References

15.2 NLM Curated PubMed Citations

15.3 Springer Nature References

15.4 Thieme References

15.5 Wiley References

15.6 Nature Journal References

15.7 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Literature

15.8 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Literature

15.9 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Literature

16 Patents

16.1 Depositor-Supplied Patent Identifiers

16.2 WIPO PATENTSCOPE

16.3 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Patents

16.4 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Patents

16.5 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Patents

17 Interactions and Pathways

17.1 Protein Bound 3D Structures

17.1.1 Ligands from Protein Bound 3D Structures

PDBe Ligand Code
PDBe Structure Code
PDBe Conformer

17.2 Chemical-Target Interactions

17.3 Pathways

18 Biological Test Results

18.1 BioAssay Results

19 Classification

19.1 MeSH Tree

19.2 ChEBI Ontology

19.3 ChemIDplus

19.4 CAMEO Chemicals

19.5 ChEMBL Target Tree

19.6 UN GHS Classification

19.7 EPA CPDat Classification

19.8 NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification

19.9 EPA DSSTox Classification

19.10 EPA TSCA and CDR Classification

19.11 EPA Substance Registry Services Tree

19.12 MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology

20 Information Sources

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  24. IUPAC Digitized pKa Dataset
  25. EPA Chemical and Products Database (CPDat)
  26. NITE-CMC
    2-Mercaptoethanol - FY2009 (New/original classication)
    https://www.chem-info.nite.go.jp/chem/english/ghs/09-mhlw-0076e.html
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  35. Metabolomics Workbench
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  48. PubChem
  49. GHS Classification (UNECE)
  50. EPA Substance Registry Services
  51. MolGenie
    MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology
    https://github.com/MolGenie/ontology/
  52. PATENTSCOPE (WIPO)
CONTENTS