Guanidine thiocyanate
Guanidine thiocyanate (CAS 593-84-0) is a chaotropic agent and potent denaturant with a molecular weight of 118.16 g/mol. Its primary applications involve solubilising cells and disrupting biological macromolecules. It is widely recognised in biochemical research for its ability to denature proteins and nucleic acids, facilitating their isolation and analysis. This compound is a key reagent in molecular biology protocols.
- IUPAC
- Guanidinium rhodanide,Guanidinium thiocyanate
- Synonyms
- Guanidinium rhodanideGuanidinium thiocyanate

Chaotropic Agent in Molecular Biology
Guanidine thiocyanate acts as a powerful chaotropic agent, disrupting the structure of water and thereby weakening hydrophobic interactions. This property is essential for denaturing proteins and nucleic acids, aiding in their extraction and purification.
Cell Solubilisation
This compound is effective in solubilising cells, breaking down cell membranes and releasing intracellular components. This facilitates downstream analysis of DNA, RNA, and proteins.
Denaturation of Macromolecules
Its strong denaturing capabilities make it indispensable for unfolding proteins and nucleic acids. This process is critical in various biochemical assays and purification procedures.
| Molecular weight | 118.16 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | NH2C(=NH)NH2 · HSCN |
| Assay | ≥99% |
| Density | 1.103 g/mL at 20 °C |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.431 |
| pH | 4.5-7.0 (25 °C) |
| Concentration | ~4 M in H2O |
| Melting point | 120-122 °C(lit.) |
| Impurities tested | DNases, none detectedRNases, none detectedinsoluble matter, passes filter testphosphatases, none detectedproteases, none detected |
| Application | Chaotropic agent and strong denaturant; solubilizes cells. |


Hazard statements
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- H412Harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
Precautionary statements
- P273Avoid release to the environment
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 1759 8 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 2 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | C,Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 20/21/22-32-34-52/53 |
| Safety statements (S) | 13-26-36/37/39-45-61 |
| Supplemental hazards | Contact with acids liberates very toxic gas. |
| Cation traces | Ba: ≤5 ppmFe: ≤5 ppmK: ≤0.005%Na: ≤0.5%heavy metals (as Pb): ≤5 ppm |
| Anion traces | chloride (Cl-): ≤500 mg/kgsulfate (SO42-): ≤50 mg/kg |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Availability | available only in Japan |
|---|---|
| Uv Absorption | λ: 280 nm Amax: 0.7 |
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 Guanidine thiocyanate used for?
+
Guanidine thiocyanate is primarily used as a chaotropic agent and strong denaturant for solubilising cells and disrupting biological macromolecules, particularly in molecular biology applications for nucleic acid and protein extraction.
What are the CAS number and formula for Guanidine thiocyanate?
+
The CAS number for Guanidine thiocyanate is 593-84-0, and its linear formula is NH₂C(=NH)NH₂ · HSCN.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies Guanidine thiocyanate with an assay of ≥99%. This product is not represented as USP, BP, or EP grade; it is suitable for research and laboratory applications.
What are the main safety concerns when handling Guanidine thiocyanate?
+
Guanidine thiocyanate is dangerous, causing severe skin burns and eye damage (H314). It is harmful if swallowed, in contact with skin, or if inhaled (H302 + H312 + H332). Contact with acids liberates very toxic gas (supplemental hazard statement). Appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves, eyeshields, and a dust mask (N95 US type), must be worn.
Is Guanidine thiocyanate available for export?
+
Yes, Tech Serve Solutions is a global supplier and exporter of Guanidine thiocyanate, though this specific product is noted as available only in Japan from the verified data.
How can I request a sample or quote for Guanidine thiocyanate?
+
Please contact our sales team via the website or your dedicated account manager to request a sample or a quotation for Guanidine thiocyanate.
▶ Related products
![(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(E)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexenamide (C8H13N3O4) — chemical structure, CAS 138472-01-2; Biochemicals & Reagents, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F138472-01-2.png&w=3840&q=75)
(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(E)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexenamide
C8H13N3O4
Biochemicals & Reagents![(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(Z)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexen-1-yl-nicotinamide (C14H18N4O4) — chemical structure, CAS 162626-99-5; Biochemicals & Reagents, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F162626-99-5.png&w=3840&q=75)
(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(Z)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexen-1-yl-nicotinamide
C14H18N4O4
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2,5-Dimethoxy-4-bromoamphetamine hydrobromide
Biochemicals & Reagents

(±)-2-(p-Methoxyphenoxy)propionic acid
C10H12O4
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2-Amino-6,7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene hydrobromide
C10H13NO2·HBr
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2-Hydroxydecanoic acid
C10H20O3
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-3-Hydroxydecanoic acid
C10H20O3
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-3-Hydroxyoctanoic acid
C8H16O3
Biochemicals & Reagents


