Description
Technical Specifications – Sodium Thioglycolate 20%
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Sodium Thioglycolate / Sodium Mercaptoacetate |
| CAS Number | 367-51-1 |
| Molecular Formula | HSCH₂COONa |
| Molecular Weight | 114.09 g/mol |
| Concentration | 20% ± 1% in water |
| Appearance | Clear to pale yellow liquid |
| Odor | Mild sulfur-like smell |
| pH (at 25°C) | 9.5 – 11.5 |
| Solubility | Fully soluble in water |
| Boiling Point (solution) | Approx. 100°C |
| Storage | Cool, dry place in tightly sealed containers |
| Shelf Life | 12 months in original packaging |
Key Features and Advantages
1. Effective Metal Chelator
Sodium Thioglycolate 20% effectively binds to heavy metals such as copper, mercury, and lead. It is widely used in wastewater treatment, metal cleaning, and electroplating industries to neutralize or remove toxic metal ions.
2. Safe and Mild Formulation
At 20% concentration, this product provides lower reactivity and odor intensity, making it suitable for cosmetic and laboratory-grade applications where gentler action is preferred.
3. High-Performance Reducing Agent
Its thiol (-SH) group provides strong reducing capabilities, making it ideal for chemical synthesis, analytical chemistry, and photographic processing where oxidation control is essential.
4. Trusted in Hair Care and Cosmetics
A popular active ingredient in depilatory creams, hair waving, and relaxer formulations, Sodium Thioglycolate 20% is effective in breaking down disulfide bonds in keratin to alter hair texture safely.
Common Industrial Applications
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Cosmetic Formulations
Used in depilatories, chemical hair straighteners, and permanent waving products for controlled hair restructuring. -
Wastewater & Metal Treatment
Applied in industrial systems for heavy metal removal and chelation, improving water quality and compliance. -
Mining and Metallurgy
Acts as a depressant or modifier in mineral flotation, especially in copper ore processing. -
Photographic Chemicals
Used in silver halide processing and recovery systems. -
Organic Synthesis
Functions as a precursor or intermediate in the synthesis of various thiol-based compounds.
Packaging and Handling
Sodium Thioglycolate 20% is typically available in 25 kg HDPE drums, IBC totes, or custom packaging based on client requirements. It should be stored in a cool, ventilated area, away from heat, oxidizers, and direct sunlight.
Conclusion
Sodium Thioglycolate (Sodium Mercaptoacetate) 20% is a versatile, effective, and industry-trusted solution that plays a crucial role across cosmetics, metallurgy, water treatment, and chemical manufacturing. Its balance of safety and reactivity makes it an ideal choice for applications requiring precision and performance, especially where a lower concentration is preferable for control or formulation requirements.
