Butyl carbonochloridate

Butyl carbonochloridate is an organic chemical compound with the molecular formula C5H9ClO2 and CAS number 592-34-7. This chloroformate ester has a molecular weight of 136.58 g/mol and belongs to the family of carbonyl chlorides. It appears as a reactive liquid that is classified as hazardous due to its flammable, toxic, and corrosive properties, requiring careful handling in industrial applications.

Butyl carbonochloridate is a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a pungent, irritating odor characteristic of chloroformates. It has a molecular weight of 136.58 g/mol and is moisture-sensitive, readily hydrolyzing in the presence of water to form butanol, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen chloride. The compound is soluble in organic solvents but reacts vigorously with water and alcohols.

Butyl carbonochloridate is primarily used as an intermediate in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical manufacturing. It serves as a protecting group reagent for amino acids and peptides, and as a carbonylating agent in chemical reactions. The compound is also employed in the production of carbamates, urethanes, and various pharmaceutical intermediates where selective acylation or protection of functional groups is required.

Butyl carbonochloridate requires strict safety measures including wearing chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods. Due to its corrosive nature (Skin Corr. 1B) and acute toxicity (Acute Tox. 3), avoid skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion. Use only non-sparking tools due to its flammable properties (Flam. Liq. 3) and ensure emergency shower and eyewash stations are accessible.

Butyl carbonochloridate must be stored in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and ignition points. Keep containers away from moisture, water, alcohols, and basic materials to prevent hydrolysis reactions. Store in secondary containment due to its corrosive nature and separate from incompatible materials including oxidizing agents, reducing agents, and reactive metals.

Butyl carbonochloridate contact requires immediate action: for skin contact, immediately remove contaminated clothing and flush with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. For eye contact, rinse immediately with water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. If inhaled, move to fresh air immediately. In case of ingestion, do not induce vomiting and seek immediate medical attention. Always consult emergency services for serious exposures.

Butyl carbonochloridate disposal must comply with local and national hazardous waste regulations as it cannot be disposed of with regular waste. The material should be collected by licensed hazardous waste disposal companies and typically requires incineration at high temperatures in specialized facilities. Small quantities can be neutralized carefully under controlled conditions by trained personnel, but professional disposal is recommended for safety and regulatory compliance.

Butyl carbonochloridate is classified under ADR as Class 6.1 (toxic substances), Packing Group II, requiring specialized transport procedures. Packages must bear appropriate hazard labels including GHS02 (flame), GHS05 (corrosion), and GHS06 (skull and crossbones) pictograms with 'Danger' signal word. Transport must comply with dangerous goods regulations, using approved packaging and documentation, and drivers require ADR certification for toxic substances.

Butyl carbonochloridate is subject to REACH regulation requiring registration for manufacture or import above one tonne per year in the EU. It falls under CLP regulation with mandatory classification as Flam. Liq. 3, Acute Tox. 3, and Skin Corr. 1B. The substance is not currently listed as SVHC but users must comply with occupational exposure limits, safety data sheet requirements, and dangerous goods transport regulations.

Butyl carbonochloridate is available through specialized chemical distributors in Europe, including OYSI, which supplies high-quality chemical products to industrial customers across European markets. Due to its hazardous classification and regulatory requirements, purchase typically requires proper licensing, safety documentation, and compliance with local regulations. Professional buyers should contact established distributors who can ensure proper handling, documentation, and regulatory compliance throughout the supply chain.