2-Methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one

Description

Methylisothiazolinone (MI) is an isothiazolinone-derived biocide used for controlling microbial growth in industrial and household products, often in a mixture with 5-chloro-2-methyl-3-isothiazolone (MCI). MI is active against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and yeast with MIC values of 0.0045, 0.0015, >0.01, and 0.0065% (w/w) for S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, A. niger, and C. albicans, respectively, when used alone. MIC values are 7 to 200-fold lower when MI is used in combination with MCI. MI decreases neurite outgrowth of rat cortical neurons when used at concentrations of 0.1-3 μM and inhibits Src family kinases in cell-free assays. MI, alone and as a mixture with MCI, can elicit contact sensitization.

Description

Methylisothiazolinone, along with other isothiazolinones, is a biocide widely used as a preservative in personal care products. It is also used in many industrial processes, such as paint and paper manufacturing, metalworking, mining, and sanitizing.
Because methylisothiazolinone is a strong cytotoxin, its use is under fire because of its dangers to humans and the environment. It is especially problematic when it is added to products such as lotions that remain on the skin.
In recent years, the European Union has begun to crack down on potentially hazardous preservatives in cosmetics. In particular, earlier this year, the?combination of methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone was restricted, and the use of methylisothiazolinone by itself is scheduled to be banned in 2017.
The EU’s extensive restrictions have severely reduced the number of preservatives allowed for use in personal care products. And bans on animal testing for cosmetics make it unlikely that new biocides will be available in the foreseeable future.

Chemical properties

2-Methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (MIT) is a colorless,clear liquid with amild odor that is completely soluble in water; mostly soluble in acetonitrile, methanol, and hexane; and slightly soluble in xylene. MIT is a heterocyclic organic compound used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products in concentrations up to 0.01%.

The Uses of 2-Methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one

2-Methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (methylisothiazolinone) is a isothiazolinone based biocide and preservative used in personal care products. 2-Methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one is also used for controlling microbial growth in water-c ontaining solution.

The Uses of 2-Methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one

Methylisothiazolinone is a preservative compound widely used in cosmetics. It is a contact allergen and sensitiser. Methylisothiazolinone has recently been identified as a neurotoxin that can damage nerve endings with repeated exposure.

Definition

ChEBI: Methylisothiazolinone is a 1,2-thazole that is 4-isothiazolin-3-one bearing a methyl group on the nitrogen atom. It is a powerful biocide and preservative and is the minor active ingredient in the commercial product Kathon(TM). It has a role as an antifouling biocide, an antimicrobial agent and an antifungal agent.

What are the applications of Application

2-Methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one is a potent biocide useful for controlling microbial growth

Preparation

2-Methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (MIT)is prepared by cyclization of cis-N-methyl-3-thiocyanoacrylamide:    NCSCH=CHC(O)NHCH3?SCH=CHC(O)NCH3+HCN

Hazard

2-Methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one(MIT)is allergenic and cytotoxic, and this has led to some concern over its use.A report released by the European Scientific Committee on Cosmetic Products and Non-food Products Intended for Consumers (SCCNFP) in 2003 also concluded that insufficient information was available to allow for an adequate risk assessment analysis of MIT.

Contact allergens

MI is generally associated with MCI, in Kathon? CG, MCI/MI, and Euxyl? K 100. This preservative is currently used in water-based products such as cosmetics, paints, and glues. Skin contact with concentrated solution can cause severe irritant dermatitis.

Side Effects

Early on, dermatitis may occur only on part of the exposed skin. Common patterns include: hand dermatitis，perianal dermatitis, perivulval dermatitis, napkin dermatitis, facial dermatitis, eyelid swelling, and scalp dermatitis. Later, more extensive and severe whole-body contact dermatitis may occur in very sensitive people.