Thioglycolic Acid: A Versatile Chemical with Wide Industrial and Cosmetic Applications
Thioglycolic Acid: A Versatile Chemical with Wide Industrial and Cosmetic Applications
Thioglycolic acid (TGA), also known as mercaptoacetic acid, is a colorless liquid with a strong sulfur odor and the molecular formula HSCH₂COOH. It is a highly reactive compound containing both a thiol (-SH) and a carboxylic acid (-COOH) functional group, which gives it unique chemical versatility. This dual functionality allows thioglycolic acid to act as a powerful reducing agent, complexing agent, and intermediate in numerous industrial and cosmetic applications.