1-octanethiol

1-Octanethiol (CAS 111-88-6), also known commercially as n-octyl mercaptan, is a sulfur-containing organic compound used as a chain transfer agent in polymer synthesis.

Where is 1-octanethiol used?

• Specialty chemicals: chemical intermediate
• Pharmaceuticals: synthetic intermediate for active ingredients and sulfur-containing compounds
• Polymer production: controls molecular weight during free-radical polymerization of acrylates, styrene, and vinyl acetate, influencing final resin mechanical properties
• Lubricants: extreme-pressure additive packages for metalworking fluids, providing boundary lubrication under high-load conditions
• Specialty materials: coupling agent and surface modifier for metal nanoparticles and quantum dots
• It also serves as a functional building block in pharmaceutical and industrial processes.

Commercial specifications

• Purity levels of 98% or higher
• Technical grade is the most common commercial specification
• High-purity grades for pharmaceutical and specialty materials applications
• Certificate of analysis documentation is standard for regulated-industry procurement