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Ethenethiourea (also known as 2-imidazolidinethione or ethylenethiourea, ETU) is an organosulfur compound with a cyclic thiourea structure, offering excellent thermal stability, reactivity, and metal-binding capability. It is primarily known for its role in the rubber industry, as well as in chemical synthesis and industrial processing.

1. Rubber Vulcanization Accelerator

Ethenethiourea is most widely used as a vulcanization accelerator in the production of neoprene rubber (polychloroprene). It helps improve the cross-linking process, enhancing rubber elasticity, strength, aging resistance, and heat stability. It is critical in manufacturing hoses, seals, belts, and gaskets.

2. Intermediate in Chemical Synthesis

ETU serves as a building block or intermediate in the synthesis of various agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and dyes. Its reactive thiourea group allows for the formation of complex organic molecules, including heterocyclic compounds.

3. Corrosion Inhibition

Due to its metal-chelating ability, ethenethiourea is used in corrosion inhibitor formulations, especially for copper and steel, in industrial cooling water systems or metal cleaning solutions.

4. Electroplating Additive

In electroplating processes, ETU can act as a brightener or leveling agent, helping to produce smooth and uniform metal deposits, particularly in nickel plating baths.

5. Photographic and Imaging Chemicals

Ethenethiourea is also utilized in the production of photographic chemicals and imaging agents, where its stability and sulfur reactivity contribute to the performance of light-sensitive compounds.