2,4-Dithiapentane

2,4-Dithiapentane is an organosulfur compound, and is the simplest alkyl dithioether.

It is a colorless liquid with a strong odor, reminiscent of freshly prepared mustard in the pure form.

[1][2] It is industrially prepared by the acid-catalyzed condensation of methyl mercaptan, the main aromatic compound in both halitosis and foot odor and a secondary compound in flatulence,[3] with formaldehyde.

2,4-Dithiapentane is found as an aromatic component in some truffle varieties.

[9] It has also been found to occur naturally in rotting wood of some species in the genus Lecythis.

Skeletal formula of 2,4-dithiapentane
Skeletal formula of 2,4-dithiapentane
Ball-and-stick model
Ball-and-stick model
NFPA 704 four-colored diamond Health 1: Exposure would cause irritation but only minor residual injury. E.g. turpentine Flammability 2: Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can occur. Flash point between 38 and 93 °C (100 and 200 °F). E.g. diesel fuel Instability (yellow): no hazard code Special hazards (white): no code