Sodium Thioglycolate 46%
Sodium Thioglycolate 46% Solution
Chemical name: Sodium mercaptoacetate (aqueous solution)
Synonyms: Thioglycolic acid sodium salt solution, Mercaptoacetic acid sodium salt
CAS number: 367-51-1 (anhydrous salt)
EC number: 206-696-4
Formula: HSCH2COONa
Molecular weight: 114.1 g mol-1
Product Specification
| Concentration | 46% w/w sodium thioglycolate in water |
| Appearance | Clear to pale yellow liquid |
| Odour | Characteristic sulphur / thiol odour |
| pH (20 °C, neat) | ~11 – 12 |
| Density (20 °C) | ~1.25 g mL-1 |
| Solubility | Fully miscible with water |
| Stability | Sensitive to air oxidation; store under inert or well-sealed conditions |
Applications
- Effective reducing agent in cleaning and surface treatment formulations
- Key active for bleeding wheel cleaners (iron fallout removers)
- Used in the leather industry for hair removal and processing
- Chemical intermediate in thiol and sulphur compound synthesis
- Specialty cosmetics (e.g., depilatory creams – regulated uses)
Industries
- Car Care & Detailing — bleeding wheel cleaners, fallout removers
- Leather Processing — depilation, hide treatment
- Cosmetics — depilatories, hair treatments (regulated concentration limits apply)
- Chemical Manufacturing — intermediate in organosulphur chemistry
- Industrial Cleaning — reducing agent in specialised systems
Packaging & Storage
Available in 5 L, 25 L, 200 L drum and 1 000 L IBC formats.
Store tightly sealed at 5–30 °C, protected from air, heat, and direct sunlight. Avoid contact with oxidising agents.
Shelf life: 6–12 months depending on storage conditions (may darken with age).
Safety & Regulatory
Classified as Corrosive and Harmful under UK-CLP regulations.
Hazard statements: H302 – Harmful if swallowed; H314 – Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.
Transport: UN3267, Corrosive liquid, basic, organic, n.o.s. (sodium thioglycolate solution), 8, II.
Handle only with appropriate PPE: chemical resistant gloves, goggles/face shield, protective clothing. Ensure good ventilation.
Refer to the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for full handling, PPE, storage, and disposal guidance.
For bulk supply, technical documentation or private-label enquiries, please contact the Innovation Chem technical service team.