Tris(methylthio)methane
Tris(methylthio)methane (CAS: 5418-86-0), with the linear formula (CH3S)3CH and a molecular weight of 154.32 g/mol, is a key organic building block. This sulfur-containing compound is recognised for its utility in complex organic synthesis. Its primary applications involve its use as a reagent in the preparation of various natural products and specialised organic intermediates, contributing to advancements in medicinal chemistry and materials science.
- IUPAC
- Trimethyl trithioorthoformate
- Synonyms
- Trimethyl trithioorthoformate

Synthesis of Natural Products
Tris(methylthio)methane has been employed in the total synthesis of complex natural products, including (−)-nephrosteranic acid and (−)-roccellaric acid. This highlights its value in constructing intricate molecular architectures.
Preparation of Protected Intermediates
It serves as a precursor for protected intermediates, such as in the synthesis of (4R,5R)-5-({[1-(tert-butyl)-1,1-diphenylsilyl]oxy}methyl)4-[tri(methylthio)methyl]tetrahydro-furan-2-one. This demonstrates its role in multi-step synthetic routes.
Generation of Difluoromethylenes
The compound is utilised in reactions to generate terminal difluoromethylenes. This application is significant for introducing specific functional groups into organic molecules for further derivatisation.
| Molecular weight | 154.32 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | (CH3S)3CH |
| Assay | 98% |
| Boiling point | 102 °C/15 mmHg(lit.)225-227 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 1.16 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.577(lit.) |
| Application | Tris(methylthio)methane has been used in synthesis of:• (−)-nephrosteranic acid and (−)-roccellaric acid1• (4R,5R)-5-({[1-(tert-butyl)-1,1-diphenylsilyl]oxy}methyl)4-[tri(methylthio)methyl]tetrahydro-furan-2-one2• terminal difluoromethylenes3 |
| Melting point | 16 °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 | Eyeshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 86 °C / 186.8 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 3334 |
| 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 Tris(methylthio)methane used for?
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Tris(methylthio)methane is primarily used as a building block in organic synthesis for the preparation of natural products, protected intermediates, and the generation of difluoromethylenes.
What are the CAS number and formula for Tris(methylthio)methane?
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The CAS number is 5418-86-0 and the linear formula is (CH3S)3CH.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Tris(methylthio)methane with a minimum assay of 98%. This is a technical/research grade material, and TSS does not represent it as USP, BP, EP, or other pharmacopoeial grades.
How should Tris(methylthio)methane be handled safely?
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Tris(methylthio)methane is classified with a Warning signal word and carries hazard statements H315 (Causes skin irritation), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation), and H335 (May cause respiratory irritation). Appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields and gloves, should be worn, and handling should occur in a well-ventilated area or fume hood.
Is Tris(methylthio)methane a controlled substance?
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The provided data does not indicate that Tris(methylthio)methane is a controlled substance.
How is Tris(methylthio)methane packed, shipped, and exported?
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Tris(methylthio)methane is packed according to industry standards to ensure safe transport. Tech Serve Solutions is a global supplier and exporter, experienced in shipping chemicals worldwide.
How can I request a quote or sample of Tris(methylthio)methane?
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To request a quote or a sample, please contact the Tech Serve Solutions sales team through our website or by phone.
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