Chloro(chloromethoxy)methane

C2H4Cl2O

chloro(chloromethoxy)methane

CAS542-88-1
GHS02 Gefahrensymbol: Entzündbar – Flamme
GHS08 Gefahrensymbol: Gesundheitsgefahr – Gesundheitsgefahr
GHS06 Gefahrensymbol: Giftig – Totenkopf mit Knochen
Danger

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Identification

CAS Number
542-88-1
EC Number
208-832-8
UN Number
2249
Index Number
603-046-00-5
PubChem CID
10967

Physical-chemical properties

Molecular Formula
C2H4Cl2O
Molar Mass
114.96 g/mol
IUPAC Name
chloro(chloromethoxy)methane

Chemical Identifiers

InChI
InChI=1S/C2H4Cl2O/c3-1-5-2-4/h1-2H2
InChI Key
HRQGCQVOJVTVLU-UHFFFAOYSA-N

Overview

Chloro(chloromethoxy)methane (CAS 542-88-1) is an organochlorine compound with significant industrial applications and notable safety considerations due to its carcinogenic properties. This dichlorinated ether compound, with the molecular formula C2H4Cl2O and molecular weight of 114.96 g/mol, represents a specialized chemical intermediate used in various industrial processes. The substance is classified under EC number 208-832-8 and falls within the organochlorine family of compounds, sharing structural similarities with other chlorinated ethers and epoxides used in chemical synthesis. The compound presents significant safety challenges, classified as a Category 1A carcinogen and exhibiting multiple acute toxicity categories (2, 3, and 4). Its hazard profile includes flammable liquid properties (Category 2), requiring careful handling protocols and specialized storage conditions. The presence of GHS pictograms GHS02 (flame), GHS08 (health hazard), and GHS06 (skull and crossbones) reflects its serious health and fire risks. Transportation regulations classify it under ADR Class 6.1, indicating its status as a toxic substance requiring special shipping procedures. Industrial applications primarily involve its use as a chemical intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of specialized pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. The compound also serves as a reagent in laboratory settings for specific chemical transformations. Like related compounds such as 2-(chloromethyl)oxirane, it functions as a building block for more complex molecular structures in synthetic chemistry applications. Due to its carcinogenic classification and acute toxicity profile, handling requires strict safety protocols, including appropriate personal protective equipment, controlled ventilation systems, and specialized waste disposal procedures. OYSI provides chloro(chloromethoxy)methane to qualified industrial customers with comprehensive safety documentation and regulatory compliance support.

Safety & Classification

Danger
Classification:

Flam. Liq. 2; Carc. 1A; Acute Tox. 2 *; Acute Tox. 3 *; Acute Tox. 4 *

HHazard Statements (H-Statements)

Describe the nature and severity of the hazard

H225

Highly flammable liquid and vapour.

H350

May cause cancer.

H330

Fatal if inhaled.

H311

Toxic in contact with skin.

H302

Harmful if swallowed.

Classification according to CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. The complete list of hazard and precautionary statements can be found in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

First Aid Measures

Inhalation

Fatal

Measures if vapours or dust are inhaled

First Aid Actions

  • +P304IF INHALED:
  • +P340Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
  • +P311Call a POISON CENTER/doctor.

Related hazard statements:

Skin Contact

Toxic

Measures if substance contacts the skin

First Aid Actions

  • +P302IF ON SKIN:
  • +P352Wash with plenty of water.
  • +P361Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
  • +P313Get medical advice/attention.

Related hazard statements:

Ingestion

Harmful

Measures if substance is accidentally swallowed

First Aid Actions

  • +P301IF SWALLOWED:
  • +P330Rinse mouth.
  • +P331Do NOT induce vomiting.
  • +P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER/doctor.

Related hazard statements:

General Measures

Emergency 112 | Poison Control: +49 30 19240 (DE), +33 1 45 42 59 59 (FR), +31 30 274 88 88 (NL)

First aid measures are based on CLP classification and associated P-statements. They do not replace the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). In case of emergency, always consult the full SDS and a physician.

Transport (ADR)

UN Number2249
ADR Class6.1
Packing Group
Tunnel Code
Proper Shipping NameDichlordimethylether, symmetrisch
Marine PollutantNo

Frequently Asked Questions

What is chloro(chloromethoxy)methane?

Chloro(chloromethoxy)methane is an organochlorine compound with the molecular formula C2H4Cl2O and CAS number 542-88-1. This chemical substance has a molecular weight of 114.96 g/mol and belongs to the category of chlorinated ethers. It is classified as a highly hazardous substance with significant safety concerns, including flammability, carcinogenicity, and acute toxicity properties that require strict handling protocols in industrial applications.

What are the physicochemical properties of chloro(chloromethoxy)methane?

Chloro(chloromethoxy)methane is a flammable liquid at room temperature with the molecular formula C2H4Cl2O. As an organochlorine ether, it typically exhibits volatility and lipophilic characteristics common to chlorinated organic compounds. The substance requires careful temperature control due to its flammable nature (Flam. Liq. 2 classification). Its chlorinated structure contributes to its chemical reactivity and potential for decomposition under certain conditions.

What is chloro(chloromethoxy)methane used for?

Chloro(chloromethoxy)methane is primarily used as a chemical intermediate in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical manufacturing processes. Its reactive chlorinated ether structure makes it valuable for specialized chemical transformations in laboratory and industrial settings. Due to its high toxicity and carcinogenic properties, its applications are strictly limited to professional use under controlled conditions with appropriate safety measures and regulatory compliance.

How to handle chloro(chloromethoxy)methane safely?

Chloro(chloromethoxy)methane requires extreme caution during handling due to its Carc. 1A and multiple acute toxicity classifications. Essential safety measures include wearing full chemical-resistant PPE, working in well-ventilated areas or fume hoods, and avoiding skin contact and inhalation. Fire prevention measures are critical due to its flammable nature. Only trained personnel should handle this substance, following strict protocols to prevent exposure and environmental release.

How to store chloro(chloromethoxy)methane correctly?

Chloro(chloromethoxy)methane must be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources due to its flammable liquid classification. Storage containers should be tightly sealed and made of compatible materials resistant to chlorinated compounds. The substance requires segregation from incompatible materials and should be kept in designated hazardous chemical storage areas with appropriate fire suppression systems and emergency response equipment readily available.

What to do in case of contact with chloro(chloromethoxy)methane?

Immediate action is required for any contact with chloro(chloromethoxy)methane due to its high acute toxicity. For skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and flush with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. In case of inhalation, move to fresh air immediately. For eye contact, rinse thoroughly with water. Seek immediate medical attention for any exposure, informing medical personnel of the substance's carcinogenic and toxic properties.

How to dispose of chloro(chloromethoxy)methane appropriately?

Chloro(chloromethoxy)methane disposal must comply with hazardous waste regulations due to its carcinogenic and toxic properties. The substance cannot be disposed of through normal waste streams and requires specialized hazardous waste treatment facilities. Disposal methods typically involve high-temperature incineration with appropriate emission controls. All disposal activities must be documented and performed by licensed hazardous waste management companies following local and European waste regulations.

How to transport chloro(chloromethoxy)methane?

Chloro(chloromethoxy)methane is classified under ADR Class 6.1 (toxic substances) for transportation purposes. Transport requires specialized packaging, proper labeling with GHS pictograms (GHS02, GHS08, GHS06), and appropriate shipping documentation. Vehicles must comply with ADR requirements for toxic substance transport, including emergency equipment and driver certification. Transportation should only be performed by carriers experienced in handling highly hazardous chemical substances.

Is chloro(chloromethoxy)methane subject to special regulations?

Chloro(chloromethoxy)methane is subject to extensive regulatory control under European REACH and CLP regulations due to its Category 1A carcinogen classification. The substance requires registration for commercial use and is subject to strict occupational exposure limits. Users must implement risk management measures and provide safety data sheets. Its high hazard profile may result in authorization requirements and use restrictions under REACH Annex XIV provisions.

Where to buy chloro(chloromethoxy)methane in Europe?

Chloro(chloromethoxy)methane is available through specialized chemical distributors like OYSI, which supplies high-quality chemical products across Europe. Due to its hazardous classification and regulatory requirements, purchases are restricted to qualified industrial users with appropriate handling facilities and safety protocols. Buyers must demonstrate legitimate use, proper storage capabilities, and compliance with relevant safety and environmental regulations before procurement can be authorized.

Data Sources

Classification per CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. Data from ECHA and PubChem.