Benzoyl chloride appears as a colorless fuming liquid with a pungent odor. Flash point 162°F. Lachrymator, irritating to skin and eyes. Corrosive to metals and tissue.. Used in medicine and in the manufacture of other chemicals. Benzoyl chloride is an acyl chloride consisting of benzene in which a hydrogen is replaced by an acyl chloride group. It is an important chemical intermediate for the manufacture of other chemicals, dyes, perfumes, herbicides and pharmaceuticals. It has a role as a carcinogenic agent. It is an acyl chloride and a member of benzenes. It derives from a benzoic acid.

It is an intermediate for organic synthesis, used in the production of benzoyl peroxide, benzyl benzoate, dyes, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, etc.It is used as a raw material for rubber additives, photosensitive materials and fragrances.It acts as an acylating agent and initiator in organic synthesis.