Methylenedithiocyanate
[CAS# 6317-18-6]

Identification

• Classification: Chemical reagent >> Organic reagent >> Thiocyanate / isothiocyanate
• Name: Methylenedithiocyanate
• Synonyms: Dithiocyanatomethane; Methylene dithiocyanate; Methylene bis(thiocyanate)
• Molecular Formula: C₃H₂N₂S₂
• Molecular Weight: 130.18
• CAS Registry Number: 6317-18-6
• EC Number: 228-652-3
• SMILES: C(SC#N)SC#N

Properties

• Density: 1.4±0.1 g/mL, Calc.^*
• Melting point: 103-107 °C (Expl.)
• Index of Refraction: 1.601, Calc.^*
• Boiling Point: 285.2±23.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*
• Flash Point: 126.3±22.6 °C, Calc.^*

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

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS06;GHS05;GHS07;GHS09 Danger
• Risk Statements: H301-H314-H317-H318-H330-H400
• Safety Statements: P260-P261-P264-P264+P265-P270-P271-P272-P273-P280-P284-P301+P316-P301+P330+P331-P302+P352-P302+P361+P354-P304+P340-P305+P354+P338-P316-P317-P320-P321-P330-P333+P317-P362+P364-P363-P391-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H301
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1B	H314
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	1	H400
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	2	H330
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	1	H330
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318

• Transport Information: UN 2811

Discovery and Applications

Methylenedithiocyanate is an organic compound that belongs to the family of thiocyanates. It is primarily used as a biocide and a fungicide, with applications in various industrial processes, including water treatment and the preservation of materials susceptible to microbial growth.

The discovery and development of methylenedithiocyanate stem from research into the broader class of dithiocyanates and their antimicrobial properties. The compound was identified as an effective agent for preventing the growth of bacteria, fungi, and algae in environments where microbial contamination is a concern. It is particularly valued in industrial settings due to its ability to combat biofouling in water systems, including cooling towers, pipes, and other equipment exposed to waterborne microorganisms.

Methylenedithiocyanate is primarily utilized as a biocide in the treatment of industrial water systems. It helps to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms that can cause corrosion, scaling, and fouling in pipes and other equipment. These microbial populations can interfere with the efficiency and lifespan of water-based systems, and methylenedithiocyanate acts as a control agent to minimize such issues. The compound is typically used in conjunction with other chemicals to provide comprehensive water treatment solutions.

In addition to its use in water treatment, methylenedithiocyanate has applications in the preservation of materials, such as paints and coatings. The compound's ability to inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria makes it useful in the protection of products that may be exposed to moisture and environmental conditions that promote microbial growth. This includes materials like wood, textiles, and rubber, where microbial degradation can lead to discoloration, deterioration, and loss of integrity.

While its industrial applications are well-established, methylenedithiocyanate is also a subject of regulatory scrutiny due to its potential toxicity and environmental impact. As with many biocides, careful consideration must be given to its use and disposal to minimize adverse effects on ecosystems. Therefore, its application is generally regulated to ensure that it is used safely and effectively within established guidelines.

In conclusion, methylenedithiocyanate is a chemical substance with well-established uses as a biocide and fungicide, particularly in industrial water treatment and material preservation. Its discovery and development have contributed significantly to the management of microbial contamination in various sectors, ensuring the continued efficiency and longevity of water systems and other materials.

References

1971. Thiocyanates and isothiocyanates. Chemistry of Pesticides.
DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4684-6251-7_20

1987. Patch tests with methylene-bis-thiocyanate in paper mill workers. Contact Dermatitis, 16(4).
DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0536.1987.tb01439.x

2011. Additives in the Paper Industry. Global Risk-Based Management of Chemical Additives I.
DOI: 10.1007/698_2011_109