2-Mercaptoimidazole
2-Mercaptoimidazole (CAS: 872-35-5), with the molecular formula C3H4N2S and a molecular weight of 100.14 g/mol, is a key heterocyclic building block. It is primarily utilised in chemical synthesis, notably in the modification of materials for specific applications. For instance, it has been employed in the chemical modification of silica gel for the selective separation of mercury(II) ions from aqueous solutions, showcasing its utility in material science and analytical chemistry.
- IUPAC
- 2-Imidazolethiol
- Synonyms
- 2-Imidazolethiol

Material Modification
2-Mercaptoimidazole is used to chemically modify surfaces, such as silica gel. This functionalisation enhances the material's properties for specific separation or adsorption tasks in analytical and environmental applications.
Mercury(II) Separation
A documented application involves using modified silica gel with 2-Mercaptoimidazole for the selective separation of mercury(II) ions from aqueous solutions, demonstrating its utility in environmental remediation and trace metal analysis.
Chemical Synthesis Intermediate
As a heterocyclic building block, 2-Mercaptoimidazole serves as a valuable intermediate in the synthesis of more complex organic molecules and novel compounds.
| Molecular weight | 100.14 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C3H4N2S |
| Assay | 98% |
| Solubility | methanol: soluble50 mg/mL, clear to slightly hazy, colorless to yellow |
| Application | 2-Mercaptoimidazole has been used in chemical modification of silica gel for selective separation of mercury(II) from an aqueous solution1. |
| Melting point | 228-231 °C(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36 |
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 2-Mercaptoimidazole used for?
+
2-Mercaptoimidazole is used in chemical synthesis and material modification. Notably, it has been used to modify silica gel for the selective separation of mercury(II) from aqueous solutions.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for 2-Mercaptoimidazole?
+
The CAS number for 2-Mercaptoimidazole is 872-35-5, and its chemical formula is C3H4N2S.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies 2-Mercaptoimidazole with an assay of 98%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, EP, or other pharmacopoeia grades.
How should 2-Mercaptoimidazole be handled safely?
+
2-Mercaptoimidazole is a warning substance that causes skin irritation, serious eye irritation, and respiratory irritation (H315-H319-H335). Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (type N95 US), eyeshields, and gloves, in a well-ventilated area.
Is 2-Mercaptoimidazole a controlled substance?
+
The provided data does not indicate that 2-Mercaptoimidazole is a controlled substance.
How can I request a sample or quote for 2-Mercaptoimidazole?
+
To request a sample or quote for 2-Mercaptoimidazole, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone. We are a global supplier and exporter.
What are the physical properties of 2-Mercaptoimidazole?
+
2-Mercaptoimidazole has a melting point of 228-231 °C (lit.). It is soluble in methanol (50 mg/mL).
▶ Related products

1-(2-Fluorobenzyl)piperazine
C11H15FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)biguanide hydrochloride
Chemical Synthesis

1-(2-Fluorophenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid
C10H9FO2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine
C10H13FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine monohydrochloride
C10H13FN2 · HCl
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)-1H-benzotriazole
C11H7N3O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)piperazine
C9H12N2O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-propanedione
Chemical Synthesis
▶ Explore more

3-Methyl-1,5-di-p-tolyl-1,4-pentazadiene
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1,5-pentanediol
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1-(2-methylphenyl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine
C11H13N3
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1-(3′-sulfoamidophenyl)-5-pyrazolone
C10H11N3O3S
Chemical Synthesis