2-Thiazolidinone belongs to the group of heterocyclic organic compounds built on a five-membered ring with a sulfur at position 1, a nitrogen at position 3, and a carbonyl group at the second position. Its structure lays the groundwork for various chemical modifications, leading to its emergence as a basic raw material in pharmaceutical and agrochemical synthesis. Many labs and factories turn to this compound as a scaffold to construct more complex molecules, mainly for its stability under different conditions and the possibilities it opens for further reactions with other reagents.
The molecular structure features a ring system of three carbon atoms, a sulfur atom, a nitrogen atom, and a carbonyl group. The molecular formula is C3H5NOS, reflecting just how compact the ring system is. Standard representation places sulfur as part of the backbone, while the nitrogen sits opposite, giving the compound a distinct set of reactivity compared to other five-membered rings. Molecular weight stands at 103.14 g/mol, making it relatively light in mass for heterocyclic ketones.
Available forms include white or off-white solid flakes, crystalline powders, or granulated pearls, making its handling adaptable for research, synthesis, or industrial-scale feeds. It rarely appears as a liquid at ambient temperatures, preferring a solid state for shipping and storage. The compound exhibits a density measured around 1.42 g/cm³, supporting its somewhat compact build. With a melting point typically in the range of 120°C to 125°C, it resists breaking down at room temperature and remains stable during most standard laboratory procedures.
2-Thiazolidinone features low solubility in water but dissolves effectively in many common organic solvents including ethanol, acetone, and DMSO. This trait makes it compatible with a range of synthetic pathways as both a solvent-soluble intermediate and a stable raw material. The ring system imparts moderate rigidity to the molecule, which chemists often use to introduce new functional groups. Spectroscopic analysis with NMR or IR offers a clear fingerprint, allowing quick confirmation of its presence in material analysis. The chemical retains its structure under mild acidic or basic conditions, and its carbonyl and nitrogen positions turn it into a versatile starting point for further derivatization.
Customs and importers identify 2-Thiazolidinone under the Harmonized System (HS) Code 2934999099. This code places it in the category of other heterocyclic compounds without further oxygen functions, a grouping critical for regulatory oversight. Global movement or trade often requires accurate paperwork, preventative labeling, and proper packaging, which this code helps standardize. Storage typically involves sealed and shaded containers to maintain purity, with transport at ambient temperature unless specific application or safety data indicates otherwise.
As a chemical raw material, 2-Thiazolidinone carries moderate risk if handled improperly. Direct contact with skin or inhalation of fine powder over extended periods might lead to irritation, and mishandling during reactions can escalate risks. Most safety data sheets classify it as harmful rather than acutely hazardous, but lab settings enforce gloves, goggles, and fume hood usage. In the event of spillage, cleanup teams generally use sweep and scoop techniques with protective gear, disposing of waste as per local environmental rules. Its reactivity profile suggests avoidance of strong oxidizing agents, and careful ventilation helps minimize exposure. Storing it away from food, beverages, and incompatible chemicals in tightly closed containers best supports both safety and longevity of raw stock.
Researchers and manufacturers reach for 2-Thiazolidinone as a crucial tool in developing new molecules, targeting everything from pharmaceuticals to agricultural agents. Known for forming the backbone of various bioactive compounds, its ring structure accommodates a wide range of additions, such as alkyl, aryl, or acyl side chains. Laboratory teams rely on consistent supply and purity of 2-Thiazolidinone to maintain reproducibility across projects. Since this compound can trigger specific biological responses or serve as a precursor to more reactive intermediates, its role stretches from the benchtop to production-scale flows. Maintaining a close eye on molecular integrity, storage conditions, and careful supply chain documentation ensures that every batch used reaches the highest performance standards, supporting innovation and safety in equal measure.
