Overview
Butanethiol (CAS 109-79-5 ), also known as n-butyl mercaptan, is a sulfur-containing organic compound used commercially as an odorant and flavoring agent. Its intensely low odor threshold makes it effective for gas leak detection and trace-level sensory applications.
FEMA 3478 designates it as an approved flavoring substance for food use. In the oil and gas industry, butanethiol is blended into natural gas and LPG as a stenching agent, providing the characteristic warning odor.
This warning odor enables leak detection at extremely low concentrations. Food and beverage formulators use it at trace levels to contribute sulfurous, onion-like, or savory top notes in processed flavors for various applications.
It functions as a building block in flavor systems targeting meat, roasted, and allium profiles. Fragrance and flavor houses also incorporate it into reference standards and specialty aroma compositions requiring controlled sulfur character.
Butanethiol is supplied as a liquid, typically in small containers suited to its high odor intensity and handling requirements. It is available in technical grade for industrial odorant applications and in food-grade specifications.
The material is compliant with FEMA and relevant flavor safety standards. Packaging ranges from laboratory-scale quantities to drum volumes depending on end-use volume requirements and specific industrial or food-grade needs.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -115.7 °C |
| Boiling Point | 98.4 °C @ Press: 760 Torr |
| Density | 0.8337 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Flash Point | 55 °F |
| Appearance | colourless liquid |
| Color | Colorless |
| Odor | Strong skunk-like. |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | 0.60 g/100 mL. Slightly soluble |
| Vapor Pressure | 83 mm Hg ( 37.7 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.443(lit.) |
| Log P | 2.28 |
Safety & Handling
Danger GHS02 GHS07 GHS08 Hazard Statements H225 Highly Flammable liquid and vapor H302 Harmful if swallowed H316 Causes mild skin irritation H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction H319 Causes serious eye irritation H320 Causes eye irritation H332 Harmful if inhaled H335 May cause respiratory irritation H336 May cause drowsiness or dizziness H361 Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child H370 Causes damage to organs H371 May cause damage to organs Precautionary Statements P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use. P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking. P233 Keep container tightly closed. P240 Ground and bond container and receiving equipment. P241 Use explosion-proof [electrical/ventilating/lighting/…] equipment. P242 Use non-sparking tools. P243 Take action to prevent static discharges. P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P272 Contaminated work clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P317 Get emergency medical help. P318 IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P308+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P333+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P370+P378 Use … for extinction. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P403+P235 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep cool. P303+P361+P353 IF ON SKIN (or hair): Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 2930 90 98 |
| UN Number | 2347 |
| ADR Class | 3 |
| Packing Group | II |
| Storage Class | 3 - Flammable liquids |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Other Names
Related Products
Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 109-79-5
- EC Number
- 203-705-3
- Mol. Weight
- 90.19
- HS Code
- 2930 90 98
- Category
- Flavors & Fragrances