2-Hydro-3-Methylthiophene draws its name from its structure—a thiophene ring with a hydro group at position 2 and a methyl group at position 3. In simple terms, researchers and industries see this compound as a small but efficient building block for more complex molecules. This compound grabs attention mostly in laboratories and sometimes in industrial manufacturing zones. Its formula, C5H6S, presents a five-membered ring, four carbons and a sulfur atom, making it part of a clever group of molecules recognizable by their distinct aroma and chemical reactivity. The HS Code often allocated to this material falls under 2934999099, which covers other heterocyclic compounds, not specified elsewhere in customs documentation.
2-Hydro-3-Methylthiophene acts very differently from your everyday chemicals. The sulfur atom in the ring changes the electronic structure compared to ordinary hydrocarbons, making this molecule more reactive toward some reactions, less toward others. Physical inspection usually puts it in a liquid state at room temperature, sometimes appearing as an oily residue, though high purity samples may show off faint yellow crystals or a colorless appearance. The molecular weight sits at about 98.17 g/mol. Density lands around 1.07 g/cm3; this figure points to a heavier build than water but much lighter than metal-based chemicals. Volatility reveals itself fast—this compound evaporates easily, and the fumes can become concentrated without adequate ventilation.
Commercial suppliers commonly move 2-Hydro-3-Methylthiophene in sealed amber bottles, ranging from smaller volumes—like 100 milliliters—to bulk containers closer to a liter, depending on the demand. The compound typically shows a liquid phase, but temperature changes may shift it toward a more viscous or even partially crystalline texture. In powder or flakes, handling gets tricky, since the fine particles foster fast evaporation, raising workplace exposure if not contained well. No manufacturer likes a leaky package of 2-Hydro-3-Methylthiophene because the odor alone gives away even the smallest escape. In terms of compatibility, glass and HDPE containers handle storage without trouble, but prolonged storage alongside acids or oxidizers introduces unnecessary risk.
Synthesizing this compound often starts with methylthiophenes or their precursors, using careful catalysis to add functional groups at the right spots on the ring. The industry keeps a close eye on purity, aiming for levels above 98% since impurities complicate downstream reactions—especially for pharmaceuticals or advanced materials. Material supply chains typically pull from both dedicated chemical companies and specialty manufacturers, as this isn’t a commodity item like ethanol or methanol. Anyone who has worked a day in a specialty chemical warehouse knows the care spent on ensuring every drum or bottle matches the stated molecular formula and property sheet.
Folks who open a bottle of 2-Hydro-3-Methylthiophene discover two things quickly—a sharp, pungent smell and a Material Safety Data Sheet warning about inhalation or skin contact. Exposure risks run high if the space lacks airflow, so ventilated hoods always make an appearance wherever this chemical is handled. Eye or skin contact leads to irritation fast; inhaling significant vapor for even a short while gives headaches or worse, so proper personal protective equipment, like gloves and goggles, never becomes optional. Its chemical nature means fire hazards creep up too, with a flash point often under 70°C, inviting fire marshals to demand strict solvent management. Spills need fast cleanup using absorbent material since clumsy handling results in slippery floors and strong odors.
Companies working with 2-Hydro-3-Methylthiophene take the hazard profile seriously. Chronic exposure hasn't built a massive file of health risks yet, but acute exposure triggers the kind of responses that shut operations until every surface clears inspection. In case of an accident, fast action limits both harm and costly downtime; specialized absorbents and well-drilled cleanup protocols show up at every site where this molecule appears on inventory. On top of these routine risks, disposal brings its own rules—waste channels route this chemical through hazardous waste streams, never through the sink. Training new hires to respect the risks and teaching the importance of containment leaves fewer accidents, and less wasted product.
This compound’s demand rarely spikes among the general public, but in research labs and innovative materials companies, it demonstrates surprising value. It shapes up as a precursor for pharmaceuticals, flavorings, electronic materials, and several smart polymers. In these applications, a consistent supply of high-purity material shields projects from delays, while uncertainty or contamination frustrates researchers. The future probably holds new synthetic routes, greener alternatives, and safer handling techniques, not because the molecule itself changes, but because demand for innovative chemistry keeps rolling forward. Addressing supply chain gaps, improving personal protection, and staying sharp on regulatory compliance save more than money—they put progress within reach for everyone relying on 2-Hydro-3-Methylthiophene as a raw material.
