2-Mercaptoethanol
Used as a reducing agent in organic reactions and for retarding oxidation of biological compounds in solutions.
CAS # 60-24-2
2-Mercaptoethanol, also known as BME, is a potent chemical reducing agent used in breaking disulfide bonds in proteins, which is crucial for techniques like SDS-PAGE. 2-Mercaptoethanol stands out as one of the best oilfield additives for oxidation and corrosion control. With strong reducing power, excellent thermal stability, and high compatibility, it provides a reliable, sulfur-free alternative to traditional sulfite-based reducers.
2-Merc is used industrially as a chain transfer agent in polymer and rubber production, a corrosion inhibitor, and a stabilizer in PVC manufacturing. It also functions as an intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals, including those used in agrochemicals, dyes, and pharmaceuticals, and has applications in metal finishing, water treatment, and as a component in cleaning agents and hair dyes.
General Information and Properties
Chemical Name: Monothioethylene glycol
Empirical Formula: HOCH2CH2SH
Appearance: Colorless, Transparent Liquid
Boiling Point: 157℃
Applications
Chemical and manufacturing
Polymerization: Acts as a chain transfer agent to control the molecular weight of polymers and rubber.
PVC stabilizer: Used as a tin stabilizer in the production of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC).
Intermediate: Serves as a raw material and intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals, such as antioxidants, dyes, and pharmaceuticals.
Metal and surface treatment
Inhibits corrosion on metal surfaces, such as steel pipes. Used as a brightening agent in copper deposition and a tarnish remover for alloys and metals.
Mining:
Can be used as an ore flotation agent.
Other industrial uses
Cleaning agents: Included in cleaning formulations due to its solubility and volatility.
Water treatment: Used in water treatment chemicals and products.
Agricultural industry: Utilized in the production of agrochemical intermediates.
Use of 2-Mercaptoethanol in the Oil and Gas Industry
2-Mercaptoethanol is a sulfur-containing organic compound used in the oil and gas industry primarily for its reducing, scavenging, and corrosion-inhibiting properties.
Key Applications:
Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) Scavenger: Mercaptoethanol is used to neutralize or reduce H₂S and other reactive sulfur compounds in crude oil, natural gas streams, and produced water.
Corrosion Inhibition: 2-Mercaptoehanol is a useful additive in drilling fluids, completion fluids, and production systems to extend the service life of steel equipment.
Scale and Deposit Control: When blended with other additives, 2-mercaptoethanol helps maintain fluid cleanliness by reducing metal ions and preventing the formation of insoluble sulfide scales in pipelines and processing equipment.
Gas Sweetening and Refining: In refining and gas processing, it may be used in formulated chemical treatments to reduce sulfur levels, improving product quality and reducing catalyst poisoning during downstream refining operations.
Advantages:
Effective at low concentrations due to strong reactivity with sulfur species
Provides both chemical scavenging and surface protection
Compatible with many common oilfield treatment formulations
Safety and Handling:
2-Mercaptoethanol is toxic and corrosive, requiring careful handling with proper ventilation, PPE, and spill management. Its strong odor also limits its use to controlled industrial environments.