CIT+MIT

Chemical / INCI Name:

Commonly a blend listed as Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone.

Primary CAS Numbers:

26172-55-4 (for Methylchloroisothiazolinone) / 2682-20-4 (for Methylisothiazolinone)

Common Product Names:

CIT/MIT, CMIT/MIT, MCI/MI. A well-known trade name is Kathon CG

· Molecular Formula:

Varies for each component. For example, Methylchloroisothiazolinone is C?H?ClNOS

Uses:

It is a powerful, broad-spectrum biocide and preservative used to prevent microbial growth (bacteria, fungi, algae) in water-based products. Its key benefit is effectiveness at very low concentrations .

· Cosmetics & Personal Care: Primarily in rinse-off products like shampoos, shower gels, and liquid hand soaps .

· Industrial & Household Products: Paints, coatings, adhesives, metalworking fluids, laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and cleaning products .

· Water Treatment: Used in cooling towers, pulp/paper processing, and air washer systems

Origin

It is a synthetic organic compound. The commercial 50% solution is produced by dissolving glutaraldehyde in water, sometimes with stabilizers (e.g., up to 10% methanol) to prevent polymerization.

What does CIT/MIT do in a formulation?

• In-Can Preservative: Prevents spoilage during the shelf life of water-based products.
• Broad-Spectrum Biocide: Effective against a wide range of bacteria, fungi, and algae

Safety Profile:

· Potent Skin Sensitizer: This is the major safety concern. Both components, especially Methylchloroisothiazolinone (CIT), are known to cause allergic contact dermatitis .

· Use Concentration Limits: Strictly regulated due to sensitization risk.

  · In the EU and US, the maximum allowed concentration in rinse-off cosmetics is typically 15 parts per million (ppm) of the active blend (at a 3:1 ratio of CIT:MIT) .

  · Lower limits or restrictions apply for leave-on products.

· Handling Hazard: The concentrated product is toxic, corrosive, and a severe skin/eye irritant. It requires full personal protective equipment (PPE) .

Technical profile: