Ethyl Mercaptan (C2H6S)

Ethyl mercaptan is an odorous, colourless liquid. The disagreeable odour has been described as penetrating, persistent, and garlic- or leek-like, similar to decaying cabbage. It is found in illuminating gas, in “sour” gas in West Texas oil fields, and in petroleum distillates from which it may be separated by chemical or physical methods. It is used as an intermediate and starting material in the manufacture of plastics, insecticides, and antioxidants, and as an odorant to serve as a warning property for natural gas.

Effects on health

Inhalation is the major route of exposure to methyl mercaptan. An odour threshold of 0.002 ppm has been reported for methyl mercaptan, but olfactory fatigue may occur and thus, it may not provide adequate warning of hazardous concentrations. Vapours of liquified methyl mercaptan gas are heavier than air and spread along the ground. Exposure in poorly ventilated, enclosed, or low-lying areas can result in asphyxiation.

Children exposed to the same levels of methyl mercaptan as adults may receive a larger dose because they have a greater lung surface area: body weight ratios and higher minute volume: weight ratios. In addition, they may be exposed to higher levels than adults in the same location because of their short stature and the higher levels of methyl.

Skin/Eye Contact

Direct contact with liquid methyl mercaptan or the gas may cause frostbite injury or irritation of the eyes and skin.

Ingestion

Ingestion is unlikely to occur because methyl mercaptan is a gas at room temperature.

CAS-number 75-08-1