Benzisothiazolinone (BIT)

Benzyl Isothiocyanate (BIT), also known as Benzyl Mustard Oil, is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in plants of the mustard family. This guide provides detailed insights into BIT’s chemical properties, applications, and safety information, useful for professionals and researchers in various fields.

Chemicals Characteristics

Synonyms: 1,2-Benzisothiazolin-3-one; BIT; Proxel; Proxel XL; Proxil; 1,2-Benzisothiazol-3(2H)-one; Benzisothiazol-3(2H)-one; Benzisothiazolin-3-one; IPX; Proxan; Benzothiazolin-2-one.
Chemical Formula: C7H5NOS
CAS Number: 2634-33-5

Molar Weight

151.18 g/mol

Melting Point

158 °C

Boiling Point

360 °C

Flash Point

°C

Density

1.2170 g/mL

Forms

White solid

Entire form

Key Points/Overview

  • Widespread Use in Paints and Coatings: BIT is commonly employed in paints, either alone or mixed with methylisothiazolinone. Its use has seen a dramatic rise over the years, with a significant presence in house paints, varnishes, and coatings. For instance, a study in Switzerland showed that 19% of such products contained BIT in 2000, which later increased to 95.8% in house paints by 2014. These numbers illustrate the growing reliance on BIT as a preservative in the paint industry.

  • Application in Consumer Products: Due to its effectiveness against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, BIT is frequently used in water-rich home cleaning and care products. Its ability to prevent microbial contamination makes it a valuable component in products like laundry detergents, stain removers, and fabric softeners. These applications highlight BIT’s role in ensuring the longevity and safety of everyday consumer products.

  • Presence in Tattooing Ink and Regulations: BIT is also utilized in tattooing inks, with concentrations ranging between 50 and 500 ppm. However, its use in cosmetics varies by region. For example, the European Union and Switzerland have regulations against the use of BIT in cosmetics, while it is allowed in the United States and Canada. This disparity in regulations reflects differing assessments of BIT’s safety and its impact on human health across regions.

Uses & Benefits

  • Preservative: In emulsion paints, caulks, varnishes, adhesives, inks, and photographic processing solutions.
  • Microbicide and Fungicide: In home cleaning and car care products, laundry detergents, stain removers, and fabric softeners.
  • Industrial Applications: Textile spin-finish solutions, leather processing, preservation of animal hides and skins.
  • Agricultural Sector: In pesticide formulations.
  • Oil and Gas Industry: Preservation in drilling muds and packer fluids

Safety Information

  • Health Hazards: BIT can cause skin sensitization, allergic contact dermatitis, and irritation to the skin and eyes. It has also been associated with systemic contact dermatitis via airborne contact.
  • Exposure Risks: Its low molar mass allows it to penetrate the epidermis, reacting with skin macromolecules and causing irritation.
  • Safety Precautions: Adequate protective measures, such as gloves and eye protection, should be used when handling BIT to prevent skin and eye exposure​

This guide serves as a valuable resource for understanding Benzisothiazolinone’s properties, applications, and the necessary safety measures to be followed in its usage across diverse sectors. It’s important to adhere to safety guidelines and regulations when handling BIT to ensure safe and effective use.