Description

2-Hydroxyethyl 3-Mercaptopropionate is a bifunctional organosulfur compound containing both a hydroxyl and a thiol (mercapto) group, making it a versatile intermediate for chemical synthesis. This compound is valued for its ability to act as a chain transfer agent in polymerizations and as a building block for specialty chemicals requiring thiol-ene chemistry. It is primarily needed by manufacturers in the polymer, adhesive, and pharmaceutical industries for creating materials with tailored properties such as cross-linking, adhesion, and controlled reactivity.

Application

• Polymer Industry: Serves as an effective chain transfer agent (CTA) in free-radical polymerizations (e.g., of acrylates and methacrylates) to control molecular weight and reduce viscosity.
• Adhesives & Sealants: Used as a reactive diluent and cross-linking agent in UV-curable and anaerobic adhesive formulations, enhancing flexibility and adhesion.
• Pharmaceutical Intermediates: Acts as a key synthon for introducing thioether linkages or mercapto functionalities into active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and prodrugs.
• Surface Coatings: Incorporated into resin systems for coatings to improve weatherability, adhesion, and cross-link density via thiol-ene click chemistry.
• Bioconjugation & Protein Modification: Utilized in biochemical research for site-specific modification of proteins, peptides, and other biomolecules through thiol-reactive chemistry.
• Rubber & Elastomer Production: Functions as a modifier or curing agent in synthetic rubber formulations to alter processing characteristics and final physical properties.

Basic Information

Product Name	2-Hydroxyethyl 3-Mercaptopropionate
CAS No.	52978-23-1
Molecular Formula	C5H10O3S
Molecular Weight	150.20 g/mol
Synonyms	3-Mercaptopropionic Acid 2-Hydroxyethyl Ester; 2-Hydroxyethyl Mercaptopropionate; β-Mercaptopropionic Acid Ethylene Glycol Ester; Glycol 3-Mercaptopropionate; HEMP; 2-Hydroxyethyl Ester of 3-Mercaptopropionic Acid; Thioglycolic Acid β-Hydroxyethyl Ester (related); Ethylene Glycol Monomercaptopropionate
EINECS	258-348-9

Quality Control

Our 2-Hydroxyethyl 3-Mercaptopropionate is produced under a strict quality management system. Each batch undergoes rigorous analytical testing, including assay by GC or HPLC and impurity profiling, to ensure it meets precise customer specifications and industry standards. A comprehensive Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing purity, identity, and specific test results is provided with every shipment and is available upon request.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area at temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F). Due to its sensitivity to oxidation, it is recommended to store under an inert atmosphere (e.g., nitrogen) for long-term preservation. Keep away from heat, open flames, and strong oxidizing agents.

Specification

Item	Specification
Appearance	Colorless to pale yellow liquid
Identification (IR)	Conforms to reference spectrum
Assay (GC)	≥ 98.0 %
Water Content (KF)	≤ 0.5 %
Refractive Index (n20D)	1.480 - 1.490
Density (20°C)	1.18 - 1.22 g/cm³

Note: Specifications can be tailored. Please contact us for the detailed technical data sheet of a specific grade.