Use and production

Thiram (tetramethylthiuram disulfide) is used as a fungicide, ectoparasiticide to prevent fungal diseases in seed and crops and similarly as an animal repellent to protect fruit trees and ornamentals from damage by rabbits, rodents and deer. It is effective against Stem gall of coriander, damping off, smut of millet, neck rot of onion, etc. Thiram has been used in the treatment of human scabies, as a sun screen and as a bactericide applied directly to the skin or incorporated into soap.

Thiram is also used as a sulfur source and secondary accelerator the sulfur vulcanization of rubbers.

Toxicity

Thiram is moderately toxic by ingestion, but it is highly toxic if inhaled. Acute exposure in humans may cause headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal complaints.

Chronic or repeated exposure may cause sensitive skin, and it may have effects on the thyroid or liver.