3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride is a chemical compound that is commonly used in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and manufacturing. Despite its technical nature, this compound plays a significant role in everyday life. For example, it is utilized in the production of disinfectants, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride is a key ingredient in the synthesis of various drugs that are integral to the healthcare sector. Therefore, the presence of this compound in everyday products and applications highlights its relevance and importance in our daily lives.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride, a chemical compound used in numerous commercial and industrial applications, has proven to be valuable in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and dyes. The compound is widely utilized as an intermediate for the synthesis of various organic chemicals, including the production of veterinary drugs and disinfectants.
Due to its potent antibacterial and antifungal properties, 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride finds application in the pharmaceutical industry for the synthesis of antiseptic agents, including mouthwashes and throat lozenges. It is commonly employed as a key ingredient in the production of oral care products due to its effectiveness in combating microbial infections in the oral cavity.
In addition to its commercial and pharmaceutical applications, 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride is utilized in industrial settings for the production of specialty chemicals and as a key building block for the synthesis of various organic compounds. Its versatile nature enables its incorporation into a wide range of products, making it a valuable resource in the chemical industry for the creation of innovative and essential materials.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a sharp, irritating odor. It is easily recognized by its distinctive smell, making it easy to detect in laboratory or industrial settings.
With a molar mass of approximately 175.01 g/mol and a density of about 1.39 g/cm3, 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride is significantly heavier than common food items such as water (molar mass of 18.015 g/mol, density of 1 g/cm3) and sugar (molar mass of 342.3 g/mol, density of 1.59 g/cm3).
3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride has a melting point of around -7°C and a boiling point of approximately 212-213°C. These values are higher compared to common food items such as butter (melting point of 30-35°C) and water (boiling point of 100°C).
This compound is sparingly soluble in water and has a low viscosity. In comparison, common food items like salt and sugar are highly soluble in water, while oils and fats have higher viscosities.
🏭 Production & Procurement
3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride is typically produced through a multi-step chemical synthesis process. This process involves chlorination of benzyl chloride using thionyl chloride or phosphorus pentachloride to obtain the intermediate 3,4-dichlorobenzaldehyde. The final step involves the conversion of 3,4-dichlorobenzaldehyde to 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride using thionyl chloride or phosgene.
3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride can be procured from chemical suppliers or manufacturers who specialize in producing aromatic chlorides. It is typically available in liquid form and is stored and transported in tightly sealed containers to prevent exposure to moisture or air, which can cause degradation. Transportation of 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride should comply with regulations governing the handling and transportation of hazardous chemicals.
Once procured, 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sources of heat or ignition. Proper ventilation should be provided to prevent the accumulation of vapors, which can be harmful if inhaled. Personnel handling 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride should wear appropriate protective equipment, including gloves, goggles, and a lab coat, to minimize the risk of exposure.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride include its potential for causing skin and eye irritation upon contact. It is also harmful if swallowed or inhaled, leading to respiratory irritation and potential damage to internal organs. Proper personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, should be worn when handling this chemical to minimize these risks.
Hazard statements for 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride include the potential for causing skin and eye irritation upon contact. It is also harmful if swallowed or inhaled, leading to respiratory irritation and potential damage to internal organs. Long-term exposure may result in more serious health effects, including carcinogenicity. It is important to handle this chemical with care and follow proper safety protocols to minimize these risks.
Precautionary statements for 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride recommend using appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, when handling this chemical to prevent skin and eye irritation. It is important to work in a well-ventilated area to minimize the risk of inhalation exposure. In case of accidental exposure, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately and provide information on the chemical involved for proper treatment.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Potential research directions for 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride may include the investigation of its antibacterial properties and its efficacy in combating resistant strains of bacteria.
Furthermore, studies may explore the potential use of 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride in the development of new antimicrobial agents or as a disinfectant for medical equipment and surfaces.
Additionally, research could focus on the environmental impact of 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride, including its persistence in the environment and potential for bioaccumulation in organisms.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride is 2,3-Dichlorobenzyl chloride. This compound also contains two chlorine atoms attached to a benzene ring, but in this case, the chlorine atoms are positioned at the 2 and 3 positions of the ring. This compound may also exhibit similar reactivity and chemical properties due to the presence of the chlorine substituents.
Another compound that bears a resemblance to 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride is 2,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride. In this compound, the two chlorine atoms are located at the 2 and 4 positions of the benzene ring. Like 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride, this compound may also possess similar chemical reactivity due to the presence of the chlorine substituents. These compounds may share some common synthetic routes or biological activities due to their structural similarities.
Additionally, 2,5-Dichlorobenzyl chloride is another compound with a structure akin to 3,4-Dichlorobenzyl chloride. In this compound, the two chlorine atoms are positioned at the 2 and 5 positions of the benzene ring. Just like the aforementioned compounds, 2,5-Dichlorobenzyl chloride may exhibit comparable reactivity and behavior due to the chlorine substituents present on the benzene ring. These compounds may share common chemical properties and applications due to their closely related molecular structures.
