γ-Thiobutyrolactone (also known as 2-oxotetrahydrothiophene) is a sulfur-containing heterocyclic compound with applications in pharmaceutical synthesis and organic chemistry. It features a boiling point of 197.4°C at 760 mmHg and density of 1.206 g/cm³. The compound exhibits a characteristic thiolactone structure, making it reactive for ring-opening polymerizations and nucleophilic substitutions. Storage should be in tightly sealed containers under inert atmosphere at 2-8°C due to moisture sensitivity. Safety precautions include using chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection (GHS Category 2 for skin/eye irritation). Its unique structure serves as a building block for bioactive molecules and functional materials.
