Description
2-(octylthio)ethanol is a largely obsolete volatile insect repellent that was mainly used to control termite infestations. Data regarding its environmental fate is scant. It is moderately toxic to fish, algae and aquatic invertebrates. It had a low mammalian oral toxicity and is a recognised skin and eye irritant.
Definition
ChEBI: 2-(Octylthio)ethanol is an organic sulfide.
Production Methods
The industrial manufacturing process for 2 (octylthio)ethanol is not available in open literature. However, it can be inferred from its structure. Industrial preparation would begin with formation of the octylthiolate intermediate, typically generated by reacting an octyl halide with a sulphide or thiolate source under controlled basic conditions. This nucleophilic sulphur species would then be reacted with ethylene oxide or 2 chloroethanol to introduce the hydroxyethyl group, forming the thioether linkage characteristic of 2 (octylthio)ethanol. After condensation, the crude product would be purified through washing and fractional distillation to achieve the purity required for use in repellent formulations.
Mechanism of action
Repellent
Safety Profile
Mildly toxic by ingestion and skincontact. An insect repellent. When heated todecomposition it emits toxic fumes of SOx.
Pesticide Type
Insecticide; Semiochemical
