2-Mercaptoethanol (β-Mercaptoethanol, BME)

Product Overview

2-Mercaptoethanol (BME) is a high-purity thiol-containing organic compound widely used in biochemistry, molecular biology, and industrial chemical applications. Known for its strong reducing properties, it is primarily employed to prevent disulfide bond formation in proteins, stabilize enzymes, and maintain biological sample integrity.

Supplied as a colorless liquid with a strong sulfur odor, 2-Mercaptoethanol is a critical reagent in laboratory research, protein chemistry, and specialized chemical synthesis.

Key Product Identification

• Product Name: 2-Mercaptoethanol

• Chemical Formula: C₂H₆OS

• CAS Number: 60-24-2

• Molecular Weight: 78.13 g/mol

• HS Code: 29081900

• Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid

• Odor: Strong mercaptan odor

• Boiling Point: 157 °C

• Solubility: Miscible with water, ethanol, and most polar solvents

Chemical & Physical Properties

Manufacturing & Quality Control

2-Mercaptoethanol is produced through controlled synthesis from ethylene oxide and hydrogen sulfide, followed by distillation and purification to achieve high purity and low water content. Quality control ensures consistent reducing power, minimal impurities, and reliable performance.

Quality assurance includes:

• Purity and water content testing

• Color and odor analysis

• Heavy metal and residual solvent monitoring

• Batch traceability with COA

Available grades:

• Laboratory Reagent Grade

• Molecular Biology Grade

• Industrial/Technical Grade

Applications of 2-Mercaptoethanol

Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

• Reduces disulfide bonds in proteins

• Stabilizes enzymes and protein samples

• Used in SDS-PAGE and Western blotting

• Maintains reducing conditions in buffer solutions

Industrial & Chemical Synthesis

• Intermediate in organic synthesis

• Thiol functionalization in chemical reactions

• Corrosion inhibitor in specialized applications

Research & Laboratory Use

• Protein denaturation and sample preparation

• Antioxidant in experimental assays

• Enhances solubility of some biomolecules

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging Options:

• 100 mL, 500 mL amber bottles

• 1 L, 5 L high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottles

• Custom packaging available

• Storage Conditions:

• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area

• Keep containers tightly closed

• Protect from heat, light, and oxidizing agents

• Shelf Life: 12–24 months under proper storage conditions

Safety & Handling

• Toxic and flammable; strong odor

• Handle with gloves, goggles, and chemical-resistant clothing

• Use in a well-ventilated fume hood

• Avoid skin contact and inhalation

• Refer to SDS / MSDS for detailed safety information

Regulatory & Compliance

Available documentation:

• COA (Certificate of Analysis)

• SDS / MSDS

• REACH compliance and export documentation

• Laboratory-grade certification

Why Choose Our 2-Mercaptoethanol?

• ✔ High purity and consistent reducing activity

• ✔ Suitable for molecular biology, protein chemistry, and industrial synthesis

• ✔ Reliable supply and competitive pricing

• ✔ Strict quality control and traceable batches

• ✔ Professional technical support for lab and industrial applications

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is 2-Mercaptoethanol used for?

It is primarily used as a reducing agent in protein chemistry, molecular biology, and chemical synthesis.

Q2: How should 2-Mercaptoethanol be stored?

Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, ventilated area, away from light and oxidizers.

Q3: Is it soluble in water?

Yes, it is fully miscible with water and most polar solvents.

Q4: Is it safe to handle?

It is toxic and flammable; proper PPE and ventilation are required during handling.