propane2thiol

Propane-2-thiol, also known as isopropyl mercaptan, is an organosulfur compound with the chemical formula CH3CH(SH)CH3. It is a colorless liquid with a strong, unpleasant odor characteristic of thiols. It is a structural isomer of propanethiol. Propane-2-thiol is flammable and volatile. Its odor is so potent that even in very low concentrations, it is detectable by humans. This property makes it useful as an odorant for natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to help detect leaks, as these gases are naturally odorless.

The compound can be synthesized through various methods, often involving the reaction of isopropyl halides with thiourea followed by hydrolysis, or the addition of hydrogen sulfide to propene. Propane-2-thiol is soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and ether, and slightly soluble in water. In industrial applications, its primary use is as an odorant. It can also be used in the synthesis of other organic chemicals. Due to its strong odor and flammability, proper handling and storage precautions are necessary. It is considered an irritant.