Chemical Properties
clear colorless liquid; meaty aroma. slightly soluble in water, easily soluble in alcohol and ether.
Uses
1-Pentanethiol is a raw material for organic synthesis. It is mainly used in the organic synthesis of sulfur compounds.
Uses
1-Pentanethiol can be used as additives for hair coloring agents.
Preparation
1-Pentanethiol is synthesized from n-pentyl alcohol and hydrogen sulfide catalyzed by thorium dioxide.
Definition
ChEBI: 1-Pentanethiol is an alkanethiol.
Aroma threshold values
High strength odor; recommend smelling in a 0.10% solution or less.
General Description
1-Pentanethiol appears as a clear colorless to light-yellow liquid with an offensive odor. Flash point 65°F. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Hence floats on water. Vapors are heavier than air. May be toxic by inhalation.
Air & Water Reactions
Highly flammable. Insoluble in water.
Reactivity Profile
1-Pentanethiol is incompatible with oxidizing agents, reducing agents, alkali metals, calcium hypochlorite, concentrated nitric acid .
Health Hazard
Inhalation may cause nausea because of offensive odor. Contact with eyes or skin causes slight irritation. Ingestion may cause vomiting.
Safety Profile
Moderately toxic by inhalation. A weak sensitizer and allergen. Local contact may cause contact dermatitis. A flammable liquid and dangerous fire hazard when exposed to heat or flame; can react vigorously with oxidming materials. Hypergolic reaction with concentrated nitric acid. To fight fire, use foam, CO2, dry chemical. See also MERCAPTANS
Solubility in organics
Soluble in alcohol, perfume and flavor materials.
Purification Methods
Dissolve the thiol in aqueous 20% NaOH, then extract with a small amount of diethyl ether. The aqueous solution is acidified slightly with 15% H2SO4, and the thiol is distilled out, dried with CaSO4 or CaCl2, and fractionally distilled under nitrogen. [Ellis & Reid J Am Chem Soc 54 1674 1932, Beilstein 1 IV 1453.]
