Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)

Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) is a synthetic preservative and antimicrobial agent widely used in personal care, household, and industrial products to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. It is often used in combination with other preservatives like methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT).

Chemical and Physical Properties:

• Chemical Formula: C4H5NOS
• Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid.
• Solubility: Highly soluble in water.
• Odor: Mild to slightly pungent.
• Stability: Stable in a wide pH range (typically 4–9).

Applications:

1. Personal Care Products:

• Commonly used in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and body washes as a preservative to extend shelf life.
• Prevents microbial contamination during storage and use.

2. Household Products:

• Found in liquid soaps, dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents, and fabric softeners to protect against microbial growth.

3. Industrial and Institutional Products:

• Used in paints, adhesives, and coatings to prevent microbial degradation.
• Helps in the preservation of cleaning solutions and industrial water systems.

4. Water Treatment:

• Acts as a biocide in industrial water cooling systems and oilfield operations.

Benefits:

• Effective Microbial Protection: Provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.
• Low Concentration Use: Effective at very low concentrations, reducing its environmental footprint.
• Versatility: Compatible with various formulations and ingredients.