What is CMIT/MIT?
CMIT/MIT refers to a combination biocide product containing two related isothiazolinone compounds: Chloromethylisothiazolinone (CMIT) and Methylisothiazolinone (MIT), typically blended in a 3:1 ratio in commercial products. This combination is one of the most widely used non-oxidising biocides globally, valued for its broad-spectrum effectiveness against bacteria, fungi, and algae, combined with good compatibility with other water treatment chemicals and relatively low use concentrations required for effective microbial control.
Polychem Industries supplies CMIT/MIT biocide solutions to industrial water treatment companies, paint and coating manufacturers, and detergent formulators across India and internationally. Its potent, broad-spectrum antimicrobial action at low dosage levels, combined with broad regulatory approval for industrial uses, makes it one of the most cost-effective preservative and biocide options for water-containing industrial products and process systems.
Sensitisation & Handling Notice
CMIT/MIT is a potent biocide that can cause skin and respiratory sensitisation with repeated exposure, and is toxic to aquatic organisms including algae at very low concentrations. It should be handled only by trained personnel using appropriate PPE, with care taken to avoid direct skin contact and inhalation of vapours or mist. Discharge of treated process water should comply with applicable environmental regulations given its aquatic toxicity profile.
Available Grades
| Grade | Form | Purity | Standard | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Grade | Clear colourless to pale yellow liquid | 1.5% – 14% active content (common commercial concentrations) | Industrial | Cooling water treatment, paint preservation, detergent preservation |
Applications & Uses
Industrial Cooling Water Treatment
One of the most significant applications. CMIT/MIT is widely used as a non-oxidising biocide in industrial cooling water systems to control bacteria, algae, and biofilm formation, including effective control against Legionella bacteria in cooling tower systems.
Paint & Coating Preservation
Used as an in-can preservative in water-based paint and coating formulations to prevent bacterial and fungal spoilage during storage, protecting both the wet paint in the can and contributing to dry-film protection in certain formulations.
Detergent & Cleaning Product Preservation
Used as a preservative in liquid detergents, fabric softeners, and various household and industrial cleaning product formulations to prevent microbial contamination and spoilage of these water-containing products.
Papermaking & Pulp Processing
Used as a slimicide in papermaking process water systems to control bacterial slime formation that can otherwise cause production problems and product quality issues in paper manufacturing.
Oilfield Water Treatment
Used in oilfield water treatment applications, including produced water and injection water systems, to control bacterial growth that can cause souring, corrosion, and other operational issues in oil and gas production systems.
Metalworking Fluids
Used as a preservative in metalworking and cutting fluid formulations to prevent bacterial contamination and the associated odour, corrosion, and performance issues that can develop in these water-based industrial fluids during use.
Technical Specifications
CMIT/MIT — Key Properties
Why Source CMIT/MIT from Polychem Industries?
- Industrial grade biocide with full quality and safety documentation
- Certificate of Analysis and comprehensive MSDS available on request
- Broad-spectrum, cost-effective microbial control at low dosage
- Reliable bulk supply for water treatment and formulation manufacturers
- Competitive pricing with consistent quality
- Export documentation experience, subject to destination regulatory compliance
