Methyl Mercaptan | Metro Welding Supply Corp.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCT

Methyl Mercaptan Gas, with its chemical formula CH₃SH, is a colorless, flammable gas that possesses a pungent, foul odor. This distinctive smell is often described as similar to rotten cabbage or garlic. While its odor can be unpleasant, it plays a vital role in several industries. Methyl Mercaptan Gas is a versatile compound with significant applications in natural gas distribution, chemical synthesis, food processing, and laboratory research.

10 KEY CHARACTERISTICS

1. Chemical Formula: Methyl Mercaptan Gas is represented by the chemical formula CH₃SH, indicating its composition of one carbon atom, four hydrogen atoms, and one sulfur atom.
2. Odor: It possesses a highly distinctive and pungent odor, often described as similar to that of rotten cabbage, garlic, or skunk spray. This odor is detectable even in extremely low concentrations, making it useful as an odorant.
3. Physical State: Under standard conditions, Methyl Mercaptan is a colorless, flammable gas. It is not soluble in water but can dissolve in organic solvents.
4. Flammability: Methyl Mercaptan is highly flammable when exposed to an ignition source. It forms explosive mixtures with air at certain concentrations.
5. Toxicity: In high concentrations, Methyl Mercaptan Gas can be toxic and pose health risks. Inhalation of large amounts may lead to respiratory irritation, nausea, headache, and in extreme cases, more severe health effects.
6. Production: It is primarily produced through a reaction between methanol (CH₃OH) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), followed by purification processes to obtain a high-purity product.
7. Molecular Weight: Methyl Mercaptan has a molecular weight of approximately 48.11 g/mol, making it relatively lightweight compared to many other gases.
8. Boiling Point: The boiling point of Methyl Mercaptan is approximately -6.3 degrees Celsius 313-450-9300 degrees Fahrenheit), indicating that it exists in gaseous form at room temperature.
9. Reactivity: It is a reactive compound, participating in various chemical reactions typical of thiol compounds, including oxidation, reduction, and nucleophilic substitution reactions.
10. Applications: Methyl Mercaptan is widely used as an odorant in natural gas to facilitate the detection of gas leaks. Additionally, it serves as a precursor in the synthesis of various organic compounds, and in trace amounts, it is employed in food processing to impart specific flavors and aromas to certain products.

10 COMMON USES

1. Natural Gas Odorant: Methyl Mercaptan is widely used as an odorant in natural gas distribution. It is added to odorless natural gas to enable the rapid detection of gas leaks, ensuring safety in residential and industrial settings.
2. Chemical Synthesis: It serves as a crucial precursor in the synthesis of various organic compounds. Methyl Mercaptan is used in the production of pesticides, pharmaceuticals, plastics, and other important chemical products.
3. Food Processing: In trace amounts, Methyl Mercaptan is utilized in food processing. It is employed to impart specific flavors and aromas to certain food products, enhancing their overall sensory profile.
4. Laboratory Research: Methyl Mercaptan Gas is used in laboratory settings as a reagent in experiments and studies related to organosulfur chemistry. It plays a vital role in the development of new compounds and materials.
5. Flavoring Agent: It is used in the production of certain food products to provide a distinct and desirable flavor profile. This is particularly relevant in the production of certain types of cheeses and vegetables.
6. Pharmaceuticals: Methyl Mercaptan is employed in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds. It serves as a key building block in the creation of specific drugs and medications.
7. Pesticide Production: It is utilized in the manufacture of certain pesticides. Methyl Mercaptan contributes to the development of effective pest control solutions.
8. Plastics Manufacturing: Methyl Mercaptan plays a role in the production of plastics. It is used in the synthesis of polymers and other plastic materials.
9. Analytical Chemistry: In analytical chemistry, Methyl Mercaptan can be used as a calibration standard or reference compound in the analysis of sulfur-containing compounds.
10. Chemical Industry Intermediary: Methyl Mercaptan serves as an intermediary compound in various chemical processes. It participates in reactions that lead to the formation of diverse chemical products.