Chloroacetic acid is acetic acid in which one of the hydrogen atoms in the methyl group is replaced by a free chlorine atom. It is obtained as a result of the interaction of acetic acid with chlorine.
The main feedstock is acetic acid. Chloroacetic acid can also be obtained by hydrolysis of trichlorethylene.
As a result of hydrolysis, a chemically pure product is obtained. However, this method involves the use of pure distilled water without any impurities.
Chloroacetic acid is used to produce various kinds of dyes, drugs, vitamins and all kinds of pesticides. It is also used as a surfactant.
When chlorinating acetic acid in an inorganic catalyst medium (namely, acetic anhydride, sulfur and phosphorus), chloroacetic acid is obtained, the formula of which is CH 2 Cl-COOH:
CH 3 -COOH + Cl 2 ↑ → => CH 2 Cl-COOH + HCl.
Physical properties
Chloroacetic acid is a hygroscopic, transparent crystals with a melting point of 61.2 ° C and a boiling point of 189.5 ° C. The substance is readily soluble (both in alcohol and in the aquatic environment, as well as in acetone, benzene and carbon tetrachloride).
Monochloracetic acid is a poisonous and extremely dangerous substance, if swallowed, a fatal outcome is often observed. Upon contact with the skin, chloroacetic acid causes severe burns that do not heal for a long time.
When inhaling acid fumes, inflammatory changes in the lungs as well as in the upper and lower respiratory tracts can be observed.
Monochloracetic acid production workshops suffer from olfactory disturbances, chronic rhinopharyngitis, desquamation, and dry skin.
Also, with prolonged interaction with an aggressive substance, skin epidermis lesions are observed, expressed by dermatitis in the face, neck, upper and lower extremities, and in rare cases, the trunk.
Chloroacetic acid in the human body is converted to thioacetic acid, which is excreted from the body with feces and urine.
Basic operating precautions:
- it is strictly forbidden to inhale vapors, gas, smoke and dust;
- it is imperative to use personal protective equipment when performing work associated with any contact with acid (impervious overalls, safety glasses, rubber boots and gloves);
- in case of inhalation of vapors or contact with acid on the skin, immediately seek qualified help at the nearest medical institution.
The maximum permissible and theoretically safe concentration of chloroacetic acid in the air of a production room is about one mg / m 3 .
When transporting acid, it is packaged in plastic containers (containers or barrels), cardboard drums, as well as steel containers. Transportation by any type of covered transport is allowed.
It should be remembered that monochloroacetic acid is fire and explosive. This substance is highly flammable.