2-chloroacetyl chloride

2-chloroacetyl chloride is a highly reactive organic chemical compound with the molecular formula C2H2Cl2O and CAS number 79-04-9. This acyl halide derivative serves as an important intermediate in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical manufacturing. With a molecular weight of 112.94 g/mol, it belongs to the family of chlorinated acetyl compounds and exhibits strong reactivity due to its dual chlorine functionality, making it valuable for various chemical transformations and industrial applications.

2-chloroacetyl chloride is a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature with a pungent, irritating odor. It has high reactivity with water and alcohols, leading to rapid hydrolysis. The compound is miscible with most organic solvents but reacts violently with water, releasing hydrogen chloride gas. Its boiling point is around 106°C, and it has a density higher than water. Due to its acyl chloride nature, it readily undergoes nucleophilic substitution reactions.

2-chloroacetyl chloride is primarily used as a key intermediate in pharmaceutical synthesis, particularly for manufacturing antibiotics and other therapeutic compounds. It serves as an acylating agent in organic chemistry for introducing chloroacetyl groups into molecules. The compound finds applications in the production of agrochemicals, dyes, and specialty chemicals. It is also utilized in research laboratories for peptide synthesis and as a building block for various heterocyclic compounds in medicinal chemistry.

2-chloroacetyl chloride requires extreme caution during handling due to its corrosive and toxic nature. Essential PPE includes chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, face shield, and full protective clothing. Work must be conducted in a well-ventilated fume hood to prevent inhalation exposure. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Use appropriate tools to prevent spills and ensure emergency shower and eyewash stations are readily accessible. All personnel must be trained in proper handling procedures.

2-chloroacetyl chloride must be stored in tightly sealed, corrosion-resistant containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Keep strictly separated from water, alcohols, amines, and other nucleophiles to prevent violent reactions. Storage areas should be equipped with appropriate spill containment and ventilation systems. Containers must be properly labeled and stored in secondary containment. Regular inspection for container integrity is essential due to the compound's corrosive properties.

Immediate action is critical upon contact with 2-chloroacetyl chloride. For skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and flush affected area with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. In case of eye contact, rinse immediately with water for 15-20 minutes and remove contact lenses if present. If inhaled, move to fresh air immediately. For ingestion, do not induce vomiting and rinse mouth with water. Seek immediate medical attention in all cases and provide safety data sheet to medical personnel.

2-chloroacetyl chloride disposal must comply with local and national hazardous waste regulations as it is classified as toxic and corrosive waste. Small quantities can be carefully hydrolyzed under controlled conditions by trained personnel, neutralizing the resulting hydrochloric acid. Larger quantities require disposal through licensed hazardous waste contractors. Never dispose of in sewers, drains, or regular waste streams. All disposal activities must be documented and performed according to applicable environmental regulations and safety protocols.

2-chloroacetyl chloride is classified under ADR as Class 6.1 (toxic substances), Packing Group I, indicating high toxicity requiring stringent transport conditions. It must be packaged in UN-approved containers with appropriate labels and placards displaying the toxic hazard symbol. Transport vehicles require proper ventilation and emergency equipment. Drivers must hold ADR certification and carry transport documents including safety data sheets. Shipments must comply with quantity limitations and routing restrictions as specified in dangerous goods regulations.

2-chloroacetyl chloride is subject to comprehensive chemical regulations including REACH registration requirements in Europe and CLP classification obligations. It carries multiple hazard classifications including acute toxicity, skin corrosion, and aquatic toxicity, requiring proper labeling with GHS pictograms and safety data sheets. The compound may be subject to import/export licensing requirements and workplace exposure limits. Users must comply with occupational health regulations and may need permits for handling significant quantities in industrial applications.

2-chloroacetyl chloride is available through OYSI, a specialized European distributor of technical chemicals serving industrial and research customers across Europe. OYSI provides high-quality chemical products with full regulatory compliance including proper documentation, safety data sheets, and transport arrangements. As a professional chemical supplier, OYSI ensures reliable supply chain management and technical support for customers requiring this specialized reagent for pharmaceutical, research, or industrial applications throughout European markets.