You are here: Home » Products » Intermediate Chemicals » 2-Mercaptoethanol

Share to:

2-Mercaptoethanol

2-Mercaptoethanol, also known as β-mercaptoethanol or BME, is a colorless, water-miscible liquid with thiol and hydroxyl functional groups. It is used as a chemical intermediate and polymer chain transfer agent. Appropriate reagent grades are also used as reducing agents in protein analysis and laboratory research.

CAS No.:
60-24-2
Molecular Formula:
C2H6OS
Molecular Weight:
78.13
EINECS:
200-464-6

Availability:



Inquiry Add to Basket

DESCRIPTION

DESCRIPTION

Product Overview

2-Mercaptoethanol contains both a thiol group (–SH) and a hydroxyl group (–OH), providing reducing activity and reactivity for chemical synthesis.

For industrial purchasing, key comparison points include assay, water content, color and downstream process requirements. Laboratory and biological applications require grade-specific qualification and supporting documentation.

Product Identification

Item	Information
Product Name	2-Mercaptoethanol
Synonyms	β-Mercaptoethanol; BME; 2-Hydroxyethylmercaptan
CAS Number	60-24-2
Molecular Formula	C₂H₆OS
Molecular Weight	78.13 g/mol
EC Number	200-464-6
Appearance	Colorless clear liquid
Solubility	Miscible with water

Product Specifications

Item	Specification
Assay	≥99.0%
Water Content	≤0.5%
Color (APHA)	≤10

Reference Physical Properties

Property	Reference Value
Boiling Point	Approximately 157°C
Density	Approximately 1.114 g/mL at 25°C
Water Solubility	Miscible

Reference physical properties are provided for identification and technical reference. Order specifications and batch results should be confirmed against the agreed specification and corresponding COA.

Grade Selection and Documentation

Please specify whether the material is intended for industrial synthesis, polymer production or laboratory research.

Before ordering, confirm:

Required assay and analytical method
Water content and color limits
Application-specific impurity requirements
Packaging and storage conditions
Product specification, current SDS and batch COA

For biological applications, additional suitability testing may be required. A 99% assay alone does not establish molecular biology or cell culture suitability.

Applications of 2-Mercaptoethanol

1. Polymer Chain Transfer Agent

Used in selected polymerization processes to help regulate polymer molecular weight. The required dosage and impurity limits depend on the monomer system and target polymer properties.

2. Intermediate for PVC Stabilizer Production

Used as an intermediate in the production of organotin stabilizers for PVC applications. Water content and other quality requirements should be matched to the downstream manufacturing process.

3. Chemical Synthesis and Industrial Formulations

Used in sulfur-containing chemical synthesis and selected corrosion-inhibition formulations. Suitability depends on the complete formulation and operating conditions.

4. Biochemistry and Laboratory Research

Appropriate reagent grades are used to reduce protein disulfide bonds and maintain reducing conditions in sample buffers, including SDS-PAGE sample preparation. Biological applications require suitable grade-specific specifications and qualification.

Packaging and Storage

Packaging

Packaging type and net weight are confirmed according to the product grade, order quantity and transport requirements. Containers must be compatible with the product and securely sealed.

Storage

Keep containers tightly closed and protected from air and moisture. Store away from heat, ignition sources and oxidizing agents. Follow the supplied product label and SDS for storage temperature, shelf life and retest requirements.

Safety and Handling

2-Mercaptoethanol is a toxic, combustible liquid and can be fatal in contact with skin. Avoid skin contact and inhalation of vapour or mist. Use suitable local exhaust ventilation and protective equipment selected according to the SDS.

Prevent release to the environment. Consult the current product SDS before handling, storage or transport.

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

1. Is 2-mercaptoethanol the same as β-mercaptoethanol?

Yes. Both names refer to the same substance, CAS 60-24-2. BME is a commonly used abbreviation.

2. What are its main industrial applications?

It is used as a polymer chain transfer agent, an intermediate for organotin stabilizer production and a raw material in selected chemical synthesis and industrial formulations.

3. Can industrial-grade material be used for molecular biology?

Biological suitability must be supported by grade-specific specifications and testing. An industrial-grade product with a 99% assay should not automatically be treated as molecular biology grade.

4. Is 2-mercaptoethanol soluble in water?

Yes. It is miscible with water. Suitability for a particular formulation also depends on the other ingredients and process conditions.

5. What documents should buyers request?

Request the product specification, current SDS and batch COA. Confirm any additional analytical, regulatory or application-specific documentation before ordering.