Gas odor ethyl mercaptan CAS 75-08-1

Ethyl mercaptan, also known as ethanethiol, is a chemical compound with the CAS number 75-08-1. It is primarily recognized for its strong, distinctive odor, often described as resembling garlic or skunk, which makes it an effective odorant for natural gas and other gases. This characteristic odor serves as a safety feature, alerting individuals to the presence of potentially hazardous gases.
Physical Properties
Appearance: Ethyl mercaptan is a colorless liquid at room temperature but can exist as a gas above its boiling point.
Boiling Point: Approximately 35 °C (95 °F) .
Melting Point: -148 °C (-234 °F) .
Density: About 0.8617 g/cm³, making it less dense than water .
Solubility: Very slightly soluble in water (0.7% at 20 °C) .
Vapor Pressure: High vapor pressure of 442 mmHg at 20 °C indicates that it readily evaporates into the air .
Uses and Applications
Ethyl mercaptan is utilized in various applications, including:
Odorant for Natural Gas: Its potent smell is added to natural gas, which is otherwise odorless, to help detect leaks .
Chemical Intermediate: It is used in the production of plastics, insecticides, and antioxidants .
Health and Safety Hazards
While ethyl mercaptan is useful, it poses several health risks:
Inhalation Risks: Exposure to vapors can cause respiratory irritation, muscular weakness, and in high concentrations, may lead to severe health effects .
Skin and Eye Irritation: The liquid form can irritate the skin and eyes upon contact .
Flammability: Ethyl mercaptan is highly flammable, with a flash point of -48 °C (-55 °F), and its vapors can travel to ignition sources, posing fire hazards .
In summary, ethyl mercaptan is a crucial chemical in the gas industry, primarily due to its strong odor that serves as a warning signal for gas leaks. However, it must be handled with care due to its health hazards and flammability.