1,2-Ethanedithiol
1,2-Ethanedithiol (CAS: 540-63-6), also known as HSCH₂CH₂SH, is a sulfur-containing organic compound with a molecular weight of 94.20 g/mol. This dithiol is valued for its reactive thiol groups, making it a versatile building block in chemical synthesis. It finds utility in materials science, particularly in the development of self-assembling monolayers and in micro/nanoelectronics applications for surface modification.
- IUPAC
- 1,2-Dimercaptoethane,Dithioglycol,Ethylene mercaptan
- Synonyms
- HSCH2CH2SH1,2-DimercaptoethaneDithioglycolEthylene mercaptan

Organic Synthesis
1,2-Ethanedithiol serves as a key reagent in organic synthesis, particularly for the protection of carbonyl compounds as 1,3-dithianes, which are useful intermediates in organic transformations. Its nucleophilic sulfur atoms also participate in various coupling and addition reactions.
Materials Science
This compound is employed in materials science for the creation of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) on metal surfaces, such as gold. These SAMs are crucial for modifying surface properties in areas like electronics and sensor development.
Micro/Nanoelectronics
In micro and nanoelectronics, 1,2-Ethanedithiol is utilized for surface functionalization and in the fabrication of nanoscale devices. Its ability to form stable bonds with metal surfaces is advantageous for precise control in device engineering.
Polymer Chemistry
1,2-Ethanedithiol can be incorporated into polymer structures, imparting unique properties related to sulfur content, such as enhanced refractive index or improved adhesion characteristics.
| Molecular weight | 94.20 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | HSCH2CH2SH |
| Assay | ≥98.0% (GC) |
| Grade | technical grade |
| Boiling point | 144-146 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 1.123 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.558(lit.)n20/D 1.558 |
| Melting point | −41 °C(lit.) |
| Vapour pressure | 4.8 mmHg (20 °C) |
| Vapour density | >1 (vs air) |


Hazard statements
- H226Flammable liquid and vapour
- H301Toxic if swallowed
- H310Fatal in contact with skin
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H330Fatal if inhaled
Precautionary statements
- P260Do not breathe dust, fume, gas, mist, vapours or spray
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P284Wear respiratory protection
- P301IF SWALLOWED
- P302IF ON SKIN
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 44 °C / 111.2 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 3071 6.1/PG 2 |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T |
| Risk statements (R) | 10-23/24/25-36 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36/37-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is 1,2-Ethanedithiol typically used for?
+
1,2-Ethanedithiol is primarily used as a building block in organic synthesis, particularly for carbonyl protection, and in materials science for creating self-assembled monolayers on metal surfaces. It also finds applications in micro/nanoelectronics.
What is the CAS number and formula for 1,2-Ethanedithiol?
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The CAS number for 1,2-Ethanedithiol is 540-63-6, and its linear formula is HSCH₂CH₂SH.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies 1,2-Ethanedithiol in technical grade with an assay of ≥98.0% (GC). We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How is 1,2-Ethanedithiol handled and what are the primary hazards?
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1,2-Ethanedithiol is flammable (flash point 44 °C) and toxic. It is harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or in contact with skin. Handle with extreme caution in a well-ventilated area, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment including eyeshields, gloves, and a suitable respirator. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet for comprehensive handling procedures.
How is 1,2-Ethanedithiol packed and shipped?
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1,2-Ethanedithiol is packed according to relevant safety and transport regulations for hazardous materials. TSS exports this chemical globally to qualified customers.
How can I request a quote or sample for 1,2-Ethanedithiol?
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To request a quote or a sample of 1,2-Ethanedithiol, please contact the TSS sales department through our website or by phone.
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