Organic Acids
REACH
3-mercaptopropionic acid
CAS Number
107-96-0
EC Number
203-537-0
FEMA Number
FEMA 4587
Abbreviation
3-MPA
What is 3-mercaptopropionic acid?
3-Mercaptopropionic acid (CAS 107-96-0), also known as beta-mercaptopropionic acid and abbreviated as 3-MPA, is a bifunctional thiol acid. FEMA 4587.
Where is 3-mercaptopropionic acid used?
- Polymer manufacturing: chain transfer agent in free-radical polymerization, controlling molecular weight in acrylic and vinyl-based resins
- Pharmaceutical and biotech: linker or intermediate in peptide conjugation and nanoparticle surface functionalization, particularly gold nanoparticle synthesis
- Food flavoring: sulfur-containing compounds contribute to meat, savory and roasted profiles
- PVC processing: catalyst precursor and stabilizer supporting organotin-based heat stabilizer formulations
- Its thiol group and carboxylic acid make it a practical building block and chain transfer agent.
Commercial specifications
- Technical and high-purity grades
- Packaging from small laboratory quantities to bulk drums
Other Names (Synonyms)
beta-thiopropionic acid|beta-mercaptopropionic acid|3-thiopropionic acid|3-thiopropanoic acid|3-thiolpropanoic acid|3-thiohydracrylic acid|2-mercaptoethanecarboxylic acid|3MPA|3-MPA
What are the physical properties of 3-mercaptopropionic acid?
Melting Point 16.8 °C
Boiling Point 111 °C @ Press: 15 Torr
Density 1.218 g/cm³ @ Temp: 21 °C
Flash Point 201 °F
Appearance clear colourless to yellowish liquid after melting
Color White
Odor sulfurous roasted
Form Crystalline Powder, Crystals, and/or Chunks
Water Solubility soluble
Vapor Pressure 0.04 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.492(lit.)
pH 2 (120g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P -2.3 at 22℃
How is 3-mercaptopropionic acid classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS05· Corrosive GHS06· Toxic GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard
Hazard Statements
H290 May be corrosive to metals
H301 Toxic if swallowed
H311 Toxic in contact with skin
H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
Precautionary Statements
P234 Keep only in original packaging.
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P262 Do not get in eyes, on skin, or on clothing.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to 3-mercaptopropionic acid?
HS Code 29309070
UN Number 2922
ADR Class 8
Packing Group II
WGK (Germany) 1