Acetyl chloride appears as a colorless, fuming liquid with a pungent odor. Density 9.2 lb / gal. Flash point 40°F. Vapor, which is heavier than air, irritates the eyes and mucous membranes. Corrosive to metals and tissue . Acetyl chloride is an acyl chloride. It derives from an acetic acid.
Physical & Chemical Properties
Molecular FormulaCH3COCl
Density:1.11g/cm³g/cm³
Boiling Point:
Solubility:Soluble in acetone, diethyl ether, acetic acid, benzene and chloroform.
Molecular Weight:78.5g/mol
Flash Point:5℃
Melting Point:
Uses
Acetyl chloride is an important organic synthesis intermediate and acetylating agent.Its acylating ability is stronger than that of acetic anhydride.It is widely used in organic synthesis for the production of pesticides, pharmaceuticals, new electroplating complexing agents, and various other fine organic synthesis intermediates.In medicine, it can be used to prepare 2,4-dichloro-5-fluoroacetophenone (an intermediate of ciprofloxacin), ibuprofen, etc.Acetyl chloride is also a catalyst for the chlorination of carboxylic acids.
Safety, Security & Risk
When heated and burned, it decomposes to produce toxic and corrosive fumes containing hydrogen chloride and phosgene.It reacts with moisture in the air, forming fumes of hydrochloric acid and acetic acid, posing a risk of poisoning.It reacts violently with water, alcohols, acids, bases, certain powdered metals and many other compounds, with fire and explosion hazards.It corrodes many metals in the presence of water.