Thiolactic acid

Thiolactic acid (CAS 79-42-5), also known as alpha-mercaptopropionic acid, is a sulfur-containing organic acid.

Where is Thiolactic acid used?

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing: key intermediate
• Synthesis of active ingredients and chiral building blocks where precise stereochemistry is required
• Personal care: hair waving and straightening products for styling
• Leather processing: hide treatment to modify protein structure and improve softness and dye uptake
• Textile processing: fiber preparation and finishing steps where controlled pH and reducing conditions are needed
• Its thiol and carboxylic acid groups make it a reactive intermediate for building complex molecules.

Good to know: Controlled reduction of disulfide bonds in keratin enables permanent styling effects.

Commercial specifications

• Liquid, typically 80–85% aqueous solution
• Higher purity grades for pharmaceutical applications