1. Product Overview

3-Mercaptopropionic Acid (3-MPA, CAS No. 107-96-0) is an organosulfur compound with the molecular formula C₃H₆O₂S and a molecular weight of 106.14. Its chemical structure is HSCH₂CH₂CO₂H, containing both a thiol group (-SH) and a carboxyl group (-COOH) as reactive functional groups.

The product appears as a colorless to light yellow transparent liquid, oily at room temperature. It is soluble in water, ethanol, ether, and benzene. It has a melting point of approximately 16–18°C, a boiling point of 110–111°C (at 15 mmHg), a density of 1.218 g/cm³, and a flash point of approximately 93°C.

3-Mercaptopropionic Acid is classified as a hazardous chemical with corrosive and toxic properties. Appropriate safety measures should be taken during handling.

2. Typical Technical Specifications

Note: The above data represent typical specifications. Values may vary by grade or batch. Please refer to the product test report for specific parameters.

3. Key Performance Characteristics

3.1 Molecular Structure Features

3-Mercaptopropionic Acid contains both thiol and carboxyl functional groups in its molecule. The thiol group exhibits affinity for metal surfaces (particularly gold) and can be used to prepare self-assembled monolayers (SAM). The carboxyl group provides water solubility and the ability for further functionalization.

3.2 Chain Transfer Performance

In polymerization reactions, 3-Mercaptopropionic Acid can serve as a chain transfer agent to regulate polymer molecular weight. This performance is particularly important in the production of polycarboxylate superplasticizers, helping to control the molecular weight distribution of acrylic polymers.

3.3 Thermal Stability Properties

When used as a raw material for PVC heat stabilizers, the organotin-based stabilizers produced exhibit good thermal stability performance in transparent PVC products.

4. Main Application Areas

4.1 Polycarboxylate Superplasticizer Production

3-Mercaptopropionic Acid is used as a chain transfer agent in the production of polycarboxylate superplasticizers (MPEG system), helping to regulate the molecular weight of acrylic polymers and contributing to improved water reduction and slump retention in concrete.

Application Note: As a chain transfer agent for superplasticizer synthesis, the recommended dosage should be determined through trials based on specific production processes.

4.2 PVC Heat Stabilizer Raw Material

3-Mercaptopropionic Acid can be used to produce organotin-based PVC heat stabilizers (such as ester tin stabilizers). After conversion to heat stabilizers, they are used in the processing of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products, with significant application in transparent PVC products.

4.3 Industrial Synthesis Intermediate

• Electronic Chemicals: Used in the production of electronic adhesives and related products.

• Industrial Cleaners: Used in CETSA (acidic rust and wax removal cleaner) formulations.

• Organic Synthesis: Used as a sulfide ion equivalent for the preparation of diaryl sulfides and other compounds.

4.4 Materials Science

• Nanomaterials: Used as a capping agent in the preparation of hydrophilic gold nanoparticles.

• Self-Assembled Monolayers: Used to prepare carboxyl-terminated SAMs for further functionalization.

• Superhydrophobic Materials: Applied in research on surface modification of materials.

4.5 Other Industrial Uses

• Antioxidants and Catalysts: Used in antioxidant treatment of oils and lubricants, and in phenol condensation catalysis.

• Biochemical Reagents: Used in laboratory applications such as amino acid analysis.

5. Usage Recommendations and Precautions

5.1 Safety Protection

3-Mercaptopropionic Acid is a hazardous chemical with corrosive properties. It is harmful if swallowed and can cause skin burns and serious eye damage. Operators should wear protective gloves, protective clothing, and safety goggles, and use the product in well-ventilated areas.

Safety Phrases: S26 (In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water), S36/37/39 (Wear suitable protective clothing, gloves, and eye/face protection), S45 (In case of accident, seek medical advice immediately).

5.2 Storage Conditions

The product should be stored in sealed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from oxidizing agents, alkalis, reducing agents, and other incompatible materials. The product is hygroscopic and air-sensitive, requiring protection from moisture.

5.3 Product Selection

3-Mercaptopropionic Acid is available in industrial grade and various purity specifications. Industrial applications such as polycarboxylate superplasticizer production and PVC stabilizers should use industrial grade products with content typically ≥98.5%. Laboratory research applications may select appropriate purity grades based on specific needs.

6. How to Choose 3-Mercaptopropionic Acid Products?

When selecting 3-Mercaptopropionic Acid, consider the following aspects:

1. Content
Content is a key indicator of product quality. Industrial grade products typically require ≥98.5%. Suppliers should be asked to provide gas chromatography (GC) test reports.

2. Color
Color is a direct indicator of product purity. Quality products typically have color values ≤10–20 Hazen.

3. Application Matching
Select the appropriate specification based on the intended use: polycarboxylate superplasticizer production should focus on chain transfer efficiency; PVC stabilizer production should focus on reactivity with organotin compounds.

4. Packaging and Transportation
The product is typically packaged in 1000kg/IBC drums or 1200kg/IBC drums. Transportation of hazardous chemicals must comply with applicable regulatory requirements.

5. Supplier Qualifications
Choose suppliers that can provide product test reports, reliable supply capability, and safety data sheets.

7. About Shenyang Xingzhenghe Chemical

Shenyang Xingzhenghe Chemical Co., Ltd. (www.xzhch.com) is a supplier specializing in concrete admixtures and construction chemical raw materials, established in 2009. The company's product range includes 3-Mercaptopropionic Acid, polycarboxylate superplasticizers, sodium gluconate, and lignosulfonate series.

The company has experience in the supply of 3-Mercaptopropionic Acid products, serving applications including polycarboxylate superplasticizer production and industrial synthesis, with distribution across domestic regions and international markets.

8. Conclusion

3-Mercaptopropionic Acid, as an organosulfur compound containing both thiol and carboxyl functional groups, has application value in polycarboxylate superplasticizer chain transfer, PVC heat stabilizer production, nanomaterial preparation, and industrial synthesis. When selecting 3-Mercaptopropionic Acid products, factors such as content specifications, application matching, and supplier capabilities may be considered.

Shenyang Xingzhenghe Chemical Co., Ltd. is committed to providing 3-Mercaptopropionic Acid and related construction chemical raw material solutions to its customers.

Contact Us:

Company: Shenyang Xingzhenghe Chemical Co., Ltd.
Website: www.xzhch.com
Phone: +86 13889850231
Email: sales01@xzhch.com
Address: No. 33, Nan'er Road, Heping District, Shenyang, China