Thiochemicals mercaptans

To describe the full range of thiochemicals is beyond the scope of this entry, which will, therefore, place emphasis on the most common thiochemicals. This entry will cover mercaptans, sulfides, and polysulfides, while the next entry will cover sulfonic acids and its derivatives, some sulfoxides, mercaptoacids and their derivatives. The safety, health, and environmental issues for both entries are discussed at the end of this chapter. 

There are several methods for the preparation of mercaptans and sulfides. It is our intention here to emphasize only the most facile methods that are safe to operate commercially, use inexpensive raw materials, produce minimum by-products, and allow for simple and easy by-product handling. While the sources of sulfur for thiolation can be many, the most common ones are hydrogen sulfide (H2S), elemental sulfur, and carbon disulfide (CS2). H2S is a component of sour natural gas and can be separated for use in the manufacture of mercaptans and other sulfur chemicals. Additionally, H2S is generated in the many hydrode-sulfurizing units in a refinery. With minimal purification this could be used for the manufacture of thiochemicals. In many instances H2S is manufactured by either the Girdler or the Folkins processes ... 

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