Page 182 - Encyclopedia of Chemical Compounds 3 Vols

BUTYL MERCAPTAN

Interesting Facts

• The Israeli army reportedly compounds in the world.
developed a ‘‘skunk bomb’’ The other chemical is ethyl
containing mercaptans to mercaptan.
use as a crowd-control
• The odor of the butyl
device against Palestinians.
mercaptans is said to be
• The Guinness World detectable at a distance of
Records book classifies the nearly a kilometer (about a
butyl mercaptans as being half mile) from its source.
among the two smelliest

the sulfhydryl group (-SH) replaces the iodine to form the
butyl mercaptan.

COMMON USES AND POTENTIAL HAZARDS
More than 500,000 kilograms (1 million pounds) of the
butyl mercaptans are produced each year in the United
States. Their primary uses are as solvents and in the prepara-
tion of other organic compounds, especially insecticides and
herbicides. Among their other uses are:
• Additives for natural gas, which normally has no odor,
so that leaks can be easily detected;

• As an additive to enhance the flavor and aroma of
certain foods;
• Nutrient in the maintenance of bacterial cultures.

All three isomers of butyl mercaptan are highly toxic.
Anyone exposed to their vapors should seek medical atten-
tion immediately. The compounds are also very flammable
and must be handled with care to prevent their catching fire.
Since most individuals never come into contact with the
butyl mercaptans, their health and safety risks are of con-
cern primarily to workers who handle them in their everyday
jobs.

CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS 131