betathiolpropionic

Betathiolpropionic, also known as 3-mercaptopropionic acid, is an organosulfur compound with the chemical formula HSCH2CH2COOH. It is a colorless liquid with a strong, unpleasant odor. This compound is a derivative of propionic acid where a thiol group (-SH) is substituted at the beta position. Betathiolpropionic is soluble in water and organic solvents.

It plays a role as an antioxidant and is used in various industrial applications. In the chemical industry, it serves as a reducing agent and a chain transfer agent in polymerization processes. It can be employed in the synthesis of other organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Due to its odor, handling requires appropriate ventilation and safety precautions. It can also be found as a component in some flavorings, though in very small quantities and highly purified forms. The biological significance of betathiolpropionic is less extensively studied compared to some other thiols.