2-(Benzylthio)ethanol is a bifunctional aromatic–aliphatic thio-ether carrying a benzylic thio group and a terminal hydroxyl group. The compound is air-stable, miscible with water and most organic solvents (dichloromethane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, alcohols, ketones), and is commercially supplied ≥98 % pure.
Key physicochemical data:
Density: 1.12 g cm⁻³ (25 °C)
Refractive index n²⁰/D: 1.574
Boiling point: 135–138 °C / 0.5 mmHg; 295 °C / 760 mmHg (predicted)
Flash point: >110 °C (closed cup)
Log P (octanol/water): 1.4 (predicted)
Typical uses:
Versatile intermediate for benzyl-thio-ethyl ethers, sulfoxides and sulfones used in pharmaceutical and agro-chemical synthesis.
Precursor for UV-curable monomers, polymer-chain transfer agents and photo-initiators.
Building block for benzothiazine-1,1-dioxide COX-2 inhibitors after oxidation and cyclisation steps.
Quality specification (commercial grade):
Purity (GC): ≥98 %
Water content (KF): ≤0.3 %
Free thiol (as BnSH): ≤0.2 %
Residue on ignition: ≤0.1 %
Heavy metals: ≤20 ppm
Hazard statement:
Causes skin and eye irritation (R36/37/38). Avoid inhalation of vapour; use gloves, goggles and adequate ventilation. SDS available on request.
