2-Chloroethanol is a chemical compound that is utilized in various industries for its unique properties. One of its primary applications is in the production of pharmaceuticals, where it is used as a key ingredient in the synthesis of certain drugs. Additionally, 2-Chloroethanol is also used in the manufacture of pesticides and herbicides. Furthermore, this compound is employed in the production of surfactants and other chemicals used in household and personal care products. Overall, 2-Chloroethanol plays a significant role in everyday life through its presence in various items that we encounter on a daily basis.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2-Chloroethanol, also known as ethylene chlorohydrin, is primarily used in commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly employed as a solvent in the production of various chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, 2-Chloroethanol is utilized in the manufacture of surfactants, resins, and plastics due to its ability to act as a building block for these products.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, 2-Chloroethanol plays a crucial role as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds. It is a valuable starting material for the production of certain drugs, including antihistamines and anti-inflammatory medications. Furthermore, 2-Chloroethanol is used in the synthesis of quaternary ammonium compounds that have antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it a crucial component in the pharmaceutical industry.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2-Chloroethanol is a colorless liquid with a strong, sweet odor that is reminiscent of chloroform. It is a volatile compound that readily evaporates at room temperature, filling the surrounding air with its distinctive scent.
With a molar mass of approximately 94.5 g/mol and a density of about 1.28 g/cm³, 2-Chloroethanol is significantly heavier than common food items like water (molar mass: 18.02 g/mol, density: 1.00 g/cm³) and ethanol (molar mass: 46.07 g/mol, density: 0.789 g/cm³).
The melting point of 2-Chloroethanol is around -35°C, while its boiling point is approximately 126°C. These values set it apart from common food items such as sugar (melting point: 186°C, boiling point: 220°C) and salt (melting point: 801°C, boiling point: 1465°C).
2-Chloroethanol is readily soluble in water, forming a clear solution. It has a relatively low viscosity, making it easy to mix and handle. In contrast, common food items like sugar and salt are less soluble in water and have higher viscosities, making them behave differently in aqueous environments.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2-Chloroethanol, also known as ethylene chlorohydrin, is most commonly produced through the reaction of ethylene oxide with hydrochloric acid. This process produces 2-Chloroethanol as an intermediate compound, which can then be further purified to obtain the final product.
2-Chloroethanol can be procured through various chemical suppliers and manufacturers. It is typically available in liquid form and is commonly used as a chemical intermediate in the production of various industrial chemicals. The compound can be transported in specialized containers to ensure its safe handling and delivery to the desired destination.
In industrial settings, 2-Chloroethanol is often transported in bulk quantities via tank trucks or rail tank cars. These modes of transportation are preferred due to the compound’s liquid state and high chemical reactivity. Careful handling procedures and safety measures are implemented during transportation to prevent any accidents or leaks.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2-Chloroethanol include its classification as a corrosive substance that can cause severe skin burns and eye damage upon contact. Inhalation of vapors may result in respiratory irritation, while ingestion can lead to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. It is important to handle this chemical with care, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat. Additionally, 2-Chloroethanol should be stored in a well-ventilated area away from sources of ignition to prevent any potential fire hazards.
Hazard statements for 2-Chloroethanol include “Causes severe skin burns and eye damage,” highlighting the corrosive nature of this chemical upon contact with the skin or eyes. The statement “May cause respiratory irritation” underscores the potential respiratory hazards associated with inhaling vapors of 2-Chloroethanol. Furthermore, the hazard statement “Harmful if swallowed” emphasizes the importance of avoiding ingestion of this substance to prevent harmful effects on the digestive system.
Precautionary statements for 2-Chloroethanol include “Wear protective gloves/eye protection” to prevent skin and eye contact with the corrosive substance. The precautionary statement “Avoid breathing vapors” highlights the importance of working in a well-ventilated area or using respiratory protection when handling this chemical to prevent respiratory irritation. Additionally, the statement “Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces – No smoking” emphasizes the importance of storing 2-Chloroethanol in a cool, well-ventilated area away from potential sources of ignition to prevent fire hazards.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 2-Chloroethanol involves studying its toxicity effects on human health, particularly its impact on the respiratory and nervous systems. Researchers could investigate the mechanisms by which 2-Chloroethanol interacts with biological molecules and tissues, leading to adverse health outcomes.
Another research avenue for 2-Chloroethanol is exploring its potential applications in the field of organic chemistry, such as its use as a reagent in the synthesis of various compounds. Scientists could investigate the reaction pathways and conditions required for efficient transformation of 2-Chloroethanol into different functional groups, leading to the development of new synthetic methods with practical implications.
🧪 Related Compounds
One example of a similar compound to 2-Chloroethanol based on molecular structure is 2-Bromoethanol. This compound has the same basic structure as 2-Chloroethanol, but with a bromine atom substituted in place of the chlorine atom. Like 2-Chloroethanol, 2-Bromoethanol is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. It is commonly used as a reagent in organic synthesis.
Another related compound is 2-Iodoethanol, which also shares a similar structure with 2-Chloroethanol. In this compound, an iodine atom takes the place of the chlorine atom. Like 2-Chloroethanol, 2-Iodoethanol is used in various chemical reactions and as a solvent in some applications. It is also a colorless liquid with a strong odor.
One more example of a compound similar to 2-Chloroethanol is 2-Fluoroethanol. In this compound, a fluorine atom substitutes the chlorine atom in the molecular structure. Like the other compounds mentioned, 2-Fluoroethanol is a colorless liquid with a distinct odor. It is used in research and as a reagent in organic chemistry reactions.
