Methyltin mercaptide
[CAS# 57583-35-4]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Organometallic compound >> Organotin
• Name: Methyltin mercaptide
• Synonyms: Dimethyltin bis(2-ethylhexylmercaptoacetate); Methyl Tin Stabilizer
• Molecular Formula: C₂₂H₄₄O₄S₂Sn
• Molecular Weight: 555.40
• CAS Registry Number: 57583-35-4
• EC Number: 260-829-0
• SMILES: CCCCC(CC)COC(=O)CS[Sn](C)(C)SCC(=O)OCC(CC)CCCC

Properties

• Boiling Point: 515.6±60.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*
• Flash Point: 265.6±32.9 °C, Calc.^*

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07;GHS08 Danger
• Risk Statements: H302+H312-H302-H312-H317-H361-H361d-H372-H373-H412
• Safety Statements: P203-P260-P261-P264-P270-P272-P273-P280-P301+P317-P302+P352-P317-P318-P319-P321-P330-P333+P317-P362+P364-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	1	H372
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	3	H412
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1A	H317
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H312
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361d
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H311
Germ cell mutagenicity	Muta.	2	H341
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361d

Discovery and Applications

Methyltin mercaptide, a member of the organotin compounds family, has drawn significant interest due to its diverse applications in various industries, particularly in agriculture and materials science. The compound is synthesized through the reaction of methyltin chloride with mercaptan, a process that results in a versatile organotin derivative with unique chemical properties.

The discovery of methyltin mercaptide can be traced back to the extensive research conducted on organotin compounds in the mid-20th century. These studies aimed to explore the antimicrobial and fungicidal properties of organotin compounds, leading to their application in agricultural practices, specifically as pesticides and biocides. The unique ability of methyltin mercaptide to interact with sulfur-containing compounds further enhances its effectiveness as a fungicide, making it a valuable asset in crop protection.

One of the primary applications of methyltin mercaptide lies in its use as a biocide in agricultural settings. Its efficacy against a broad spectrum of fungal pathogens makes it a popular choice for protecting crops and improving agricultural yields. The compound acts by disrupting cellular processes in fungi, leading to cell death and preventing the spread of diseases that can significantly impact crop health. This property is particularly advantageous in the cultivation of sensitive crops that require effective disease management strategies.

In addition to its agricultural applications, methyltin mercaptide is also employed in the synthesis of various polymer materials. Its unique chemical structure allows it to act as a stabilizer and catalyst in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other polymers. The incorporation of methyltin mercaptide into polymer formulations enhances thermal stability, mechanical properties, and resistance to environmental degradation, making it ideal for manufacturing durable materials used in construction, automotive, and consumer products.

The use of methyltin mercaptide, however, raises environmental and health concerns due to the potential toxicity associated with organotin compounds. Regulatory agencies have implemented guidelines to limit the use of certain organotin compounds, necessitating the careful evaluation of their application in agricultural and industrial settings. Efforts are ongoing to develop safer alternatives that can provide similar benefits without posing risks to human health or the environment.

In conclusion, methyltin mercaptide is a versatile chemical substance with significant applications in agriculture and materials science. Its discovery has facilitated advancements in crop protection and the development of high-performance materials. While its unique properties continue to offer valuable benefits, ongoing research and regulation are essential to ensure its safe use in various applications.

References

2018. The Chemical and Products Database, a resource for exposure-relevant data on chemicals in consumer products. Scientific Data, 5.
DOI: 10.1038/sdata.2018.125