Chloroacetic acid is colorless to white hygroscopic crystals with a pungent odor and is readily deliquescent.As a moderately strong organic acid, it possesses strong corrosiveness and toxicity.It decomposes upon heating to produce toxic gases including hydrogen chloride and phosgene.
Physical & Chemical Properties
Molecular FormulaC2H3ClO2
Density:1.58g/cm³g/cm³
Boiling Point:189℃
Solubility:
Very soluble in water; soluble in most organic solvents such as ethanol, diethyl ether, acetone, chloroform, benzene, etc.
Molecular Weight:94.5g/mol
Flash Point:126℃
Melting Point:
Uses
1. Pesticide industry: preparation of glyphosate, chloroacetate herbicides, etc.
2. Pharmaceutical industry: synthesis of barbiturates, vitamin intermediates, etc.
3. Chemical industry: production of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), dyes, surfactants, rubber additives, etc.
4. Electroplating and mineral processing: used as a complexing agent.
Safety, Security & Risk
Physical Hazards
Vapors are heavier than air.
Chemical Hazards
Decomposes on combustion, producing toxic fumes containing hydrogen chloride and phosgene.Aqueous solution is a moderately strong acid.Corrodes metals, generating flammable and explosive hydrogen gas.Reacts with alkalis, oxidizing agents and reducing agents, forming toxic and flammable gases.Risk of poisoning, fire and explosion.Corrodes some types of plastics, some types of rubber and coatings.