Sodium 2-chloroacetate

Sodium 2-chloroacetate is an organochlorine compound with the molecular formula C2H2ClNaO2 and CAS number 3926-62-3. This chemical substance has a molecular weight of 116.48 g/mol and appears as a white crystalline solid. It is classified as a hazardous substance with acute toxicity properties, skin irritation potential, and aquatic toxicity. The compound is widely used in various industrial applications and requires careful handling due to its dangerous properties indicated by GHS pictograms GHS06 and GHS09.

Sodium 2-chloroacetate is a white crystalline solid at room temperature with good water solubility due to its ionic nature. The compound has a molecular weight of 116.48 g/mol and contains a chlorine atom attached to the acetate group. It is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from air. The substance is stable under normal conditions but may decompose when heated to high temperatures, potentially releasing toxic chlorine-containing compounds and other hazardous decomposition products.

Sodium 2-chloroacetate is primarily used as an intermediate in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical manufacturing. It serves as a key building block for producing various chemicals, including herbicides, pharmaceuticals, and specialty chemicals. The compound is also utilized in biochemical research as an alkylating agent and in the synthesis of carboxymethyl derivatives. Its reactive chloroacetate group makes it valuable for introducing acetate functionality into organic molecules through nucleophilic substitution reactions in industrial chemical processes.

Sodium 2-chloroacetate must be handled with appropriate personal protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing due to its Acute Tox. 3 and Skin Irrit. 2 classifications. Work should be conducted in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods to prevent inhalation exposure. Avoid direct skin and eye contact, and ensure emergency eyewash stations and safety showers are readily available. Personnel should be trained on the hazards associated with this substance and emergency procedures before handling.

Sodium 2-chloroacetate should be stored in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials. Keep containers away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and moisture to prevent degradation. The storage area should be secure and accessible only to trained personnel. Ensure proper labeling with hazard information and maintain appropriate spill cleanup materials nearby. Store away from strong bases, reducing agents, and incompatible chemicals to prevent dangerous reactions or decomposition.

Sodium 2-chloroacetate exposure requires immediate first aid measures. For skin contact, immediately remove contaminated clothing and flush the affected area with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. In case of eye contact, rinse thoroughly with water for several minutes and remove contact lenses if present and easily removable. If ingested, do not induce vomiting and seek immediate medical attention. For inhalation exposure, move the person to fresh air immediately. Always seek medical advice and provide the safety data sheet to medical personnel.

Sodium 2-chloroacetate must be disposed of according to local, regional, and national waste regulations as hazardous chemical waste. The substance cannot be disposed of in regular trash or sewage systems due to its toxicity and environmental hazard classification (Aquatic Acute 1). Contact licensed hazardous waste disposal companies for proper treatment and disposal. Small quantities may require neutralization or other pre-treatment before disposal. Always consult current waste disposal regulations and maintain proper documentation of waste disposal activities.

Sodium 2-chloroacetate is classified as ADR Class 6.1 (toxic substances), Packing Group III for transportation purposes. The substance must be packaged in appropriate UN-specification containers with proper hazard labels and documentation. Transport vehicles must comply with ADR regulations for toxic substances, including proper placarding and driver certification. Emergency response information must accompany shipments, and transport should only be conducted by qualified personnel familiar with hazardous materials transportation requirements and emergency procedures.

Sodium 2-chloroacetate is subject to various chemical regulations including REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization of Chemicals) and CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) regulations in Europe. The substance is not currently listed as an SVHC (Substance of Very High Concern). Users must comply with occupational safety regulations, environmental protection laws, and proper classification and labeling requirements. Companies handling significant quantities may need to register under REACH and maintain safety data sheets with current hazard information and exposure scenarios.

Sodium 2-chloroacetate is available through OYSI, a European distributor of specialty chemicals and technical products. OYSI provides reliable supply chains for industrial customers across Europe with proper documentation and regulatory compliance. When purchasing, ensure the supplier provides current safety data sheets, certificates of analysis, and proper hazard labeling. Consider factors such as packaging sizes, delivery logistics, and supplier technical support. Contact chemical distributors directly to discuss specific requirements, quantities, and delivery options for your industrial applications.