Thimerosal
Thimerosal (CAS: 54-64-8), with the molecular formula 2-(C2H5HgS)C6H4CO2Na and a molecular weight of 404.81 g/mol, is an organomercury compound. It functions as an effective preservative and antiseptic agent. Thimerosal is primarily utilised in pharmaceutical preparations and as a preservative in some vaccines to prevent bacterial and fungal contamination, ensuring product stability and safety.
- IUPAC
- 2-(Ethylmercuriomercapto)benzoic acid sodium salt,Ethylmercurithiosalicylic acid sodium salt,Mercury-([o-carboxyphenyl]thio)ethyl sodium salt,Sodium ethylmercurithiosalicylate
- Synonyms
- 2-(Ethylmercuriomercapto)benzoic acid sodium saltEthylmercurithiosalicylic acid sodium saltMercury-([o-carboxyphenyl]thio)ethyl sodium saltSodium ethylmercurithiosalicylate
Preservative in Pharmaceuticals
Thimerosal is employed as a preservative in various pharmaceutical formulations, including some vaccines and topical antiseptics, to inhibit microbial growth and spoilage. Its efficacy helps maintain the sterility and shelf-life of these products.
Antiseptic Agent
Due to its antimicrobial properties, thimerosal has been used as an antiseptic for skin disinfection and in certain medical solutions. It helps to prevent or reduce the risk of infection.
Laboratory Reagent
In laboratory settings, thimerosal can be used as a biocide or preservative in biological buffers and solutions, preventing microbial contamination during experiments and storage.
| Molecular weight | 404.81 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | 2-(C2H5HgS)C6H4CO2Na |
| Assay | 97% |
| Melting point | 234-237 °C (dec.)(lit.) |
Hazard statements
- H300Fatal if swallowed
- H310Fatal in contact with skin
- H330Fatal if inhaled
- H373May cause damage to organs through prolonged exposure
- H410Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
Precautionary statements
- P260Do not breathe dust, fume, gas, mist, vapours or spray
- P264Wash thoroughly after handling
- P273Avoid release to the environment
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P284Wear respiratory protection
- P301IF SWALLOWED
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face particle respirator type N100 (US), Gloves, respirator cartridge type N100 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter, type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 250 °C / 482 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2025 6.1 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T+,N |
| Risk statements (R) | 26/27/28-33-50/53 |
| Safety statements (S) | 13-28-36-45-60-61 |
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 Thimerosal primarily used for?
+
Thimerosal is primarily used as a preservative in pharmaceutical preparations, notably in some vaccines and topical antiseptics, to prevent bacterial and fungal contamination.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for Thimerosal?
+
The CAS number for Thimerosal is 54-64-8, and its linear chemical formula is 2-(C2H5HgS)C6H4CO2Na.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies Thimerosal with an assay of 97%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade unless explicitly stated in the product specifications.
How should Thimerosal be handled safely?
+
Thimerosal is a dangerous substance requiring careful handling. It is acutely toxic if swallowed, in contact with skin, or if inhaled (H300-H310-H330) and may cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure (H373). It is also very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects (H410). Appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields, gloves, and suitable respiratory protection, must be used.
Is Thimerosal a controlled substance?
+
The provided data does not indicate that Thimerosal is a controlled substance in major regulatory frameworks. However, users should verify local regulations.
How is Thimerosal packed and shipped by TSS?
+
Thimerosal is packed and shipped in compliance with relevant transport regulations, such as UN 2025, hazard class 6.1, packing group III. Please contact us for detailed shipping information.
How can I request a quote or sample for Thimerosal?
+
To request a quote or a sample of Thimerosal, please use the contact form on our website or email our sales department, providing your specific requirements.
▶ 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