Flavors & Fragrances
REACH
2-methylpropane-2-thiol
CAS Number
75-66-1
EC Number
200-890-2
What is 2-methylpropane-2-thiol?
2-Methylpropane-2-thiol (CAS 75-66-1), commercially known as tert-butyl mercaptan, is a synthetic sulfur compound used as a potent flavoring agent and odorant.
Where is 2-methylpropane-2-thiol used?
- Flavor and fragrance: used at very low levels
- Processed food: roasted, savory and sulfurous top notes
- Coffee, meat and onion flavor profiles
- Natural gas and LPG: odorant additive blended into fuel gas streams for safety
- Petroleum refining and petrochemicals: reference compound and intermediate in sulfur chemistry research and calibration standards
- It provides a detectable warning odor for leak detection compliance.
Good to know: Its intense sulfurous odor makes it effective at trace concentrations. Food-grade quality meets FEMA standards.
Commercial specifications
- Food-grade quality meeting FEMA standards
- Small packaging formats for flavor and odorant applications
- Packaging from laboratory-scale quantities up to drum volumes
Other Names (Synonyms)
tert-butyl mercaptan
What are the physical properties of 2-methylpropane-2-thiol?
Melting Point -0.5 °C
Boiling Point -63.7-64.2 °C @ Press: 760 Torr
Density 0.80 g/cm³
Flash Point −12 °F
Appearance liquid with an exceedingly unpleasant smell
Color Clear colorless
Odor sulfury
Form Liquid
Water Solubility Slightly soluble in water
Vapor Pressure 303.5 mm Hg ( 37.7 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.423(lit.)
Log P 2.206 (est)
How is 2-methylpropane-2-thiol classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS02· Flammable GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard GHS09· Environmental Hazard
Hazard Statements
H225 Highly Flammable liquid and vapor
H304 May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways
H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
Precautionary Statements
P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P233 Keep container tightly closed.
P240 Ground and bond container and receiving equipment.
P241 Use explosion-proof [electrical/ventilating/lighting/…] equipment.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to 2-methylpropane-2-thiol?
HS Code 29309090
UN Number 2347
ADR Class 3
Packing Group II
Storage Class 3 - Flammable liquids
WGK (Germany) 3