2,3-dimercapto-1-propanol, with the CAS number 59 - 52 - 9, is a chemical compound of significant importance in various industries. It is also known as British Anti - Lewisite (BAL), reflecting its historical use as an antidote against the chemical warfare agent Lewisite. The molecular formula of 2,3 - dimercapto - 1 - propanol is C₃H₈OS₂, and its molar mass is approximately 124.22 g/mol. Structurally, it contains a propanol backbone with two mercapto (-SH) groups at the second and third carbon atoms.
This product is commonly supplied as a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid. It has a pungent, garlic - like odor. Its density is about 1.22 g/cm³, and it has a boiling point in the range of 219 - 221 °C at 760 mmHg. It is slightly soluble in water but miscible with ethanol, ether, and other organic solvents.
One of the primary uses of 2,3 - dimercapto - 1 - propanol is in medicine. It serves as an antidote for heavy metal poisoning, such as arsenic, mercury, and gold poisoning. When heavy metals enter the body, they can bind to essential enzymes and disrupt normal physiological functions. 2,3 - dimercapto - 1 - propanol can chelate these heavy metals, forming stable complexes that can be excreted from the body, thereby reducing the toxic effects of heavy metals.
In the field of analytical chemistry, it is used as a complexing agent. It can be employed to determine the presence and concentration of certain heavy metals in samples. By forming complexes with heavy metals, it allows for easier detection and quantification through various analytical techniques.
In addition, it has applications in the electronics industry. It can be used in the surface treatment of certain metals to improve their corrosion resistance and adhesion properties.
When using 2,3 - dimercapto - 1 - propanol, strict safety precautions should be followed. It should be used in a well - ventilated area to avoid inhalation of its vapors. Gloves, goggles, and appropriate protective clothing should be worn to prevent skin and eye contact.
In medical applications, the dosage and administration route are determined by medical professionals based on the patient's condition. It is usually administered intramuscularly in a hospital setting. The dosage is carefully calculated according to the type and severity of heavy metal poisoning.
In analytical chemistry, a specific amount of 2,3 - dimercapto - 1 - propanol is added to the sample solution. The reaction conditions, such as temperature and pH, need to be controlled to ensure the formation of stable complexes. After the reaction, the sample can be analyzed using techniques like atomic absorption spectroscopy or inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.
In the electronics industry, it can be applied to the metal surface by methods such as dipping or spraying. The treatment time and concentration need to be optimized according to the specific requirements of the metal and the application.
Medical Case: A patient was accidentally exposed to mercury vapor in a laboratory. After being sent to the hospital, medical staff diagnosed mercury poisoning. They administered 2,3 - dimercapto - 1 - propanol intramuscularly at a dosage of 2.5 mg/kg every 4 hours for the first 2 days. Over the next few days, the dosage was gradually reduced. Through regular monitoring of blood and urine mercury levels, it was found that the mercury concentration in the patient's body gradually decreased. After a week of treatment, the patient's symptoms significantly improved, and they were eventually discharged from the hospital.
Analytical Chemistry Case: A research team was analyzing a water sample suspected of containing arsenic. They added an appropriate amount of 2,3 - dimercapto - 1 - propanol to the sample and adjusted the pH to the optimal range. After a sufficient reaction time, they used atomic absorption spectroscopy to measure the absorbance of the sample. By comparing with a standard curve, they accurately determined the arsenic concentration in the water sample, which was crucial for environmental assessment and water quality control.
Electronics Industry Case: A manufacturing company was producing printed circuit boards. They
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