Dichloroacetic acid
Agrochemicals 2025-03-02
Dichloroacetic Acid (DCA)
Chemical Name: Dichloroacetic acid
Synonyms: DCA; Dichloroethanoic acid
CAS Number: 79-43-6
Molecular Formula: C₂H₂Cl₂O₂
Molecular Weight: 128.94 g/mol
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless to light yellow liquid |
| Odor | Pungent, acrid |
| Melting Point | 9-11°C (48-52°F) |
| Boiling Point | 194°C (381°F) |
| Density | 1.563 g/cm³ (25°C) |
| pKa | 1.35 (strong acid) |
| Solubility | Miscible with water, ethanol, ether |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.08 mmHg (20°C) |
| Refractive Index | 1.465 (20°C) |
Hazard & Safety Information (GHS)
Danger Symbols:
☠️ Corrosive (C)
⚠️ Health Hazard
Hazard Codes:
• H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
• H335: May cause respiratory irritation
• H411: Toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
Protective Measures:
• P280: Wear gloves/eye protection/face protection
• P303+P361+P353: IF ON SKIN: Rinse immediately
• P305+P351+P338: IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously
Handling & Storage
• Store in corrosion-resistant containers (glass/PTFE)
• Keep in cool, well-ventilated area away from bases
• Handle with chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile/neoprene)
• Use fume hood for concentrated solutions
Chemical Behavior
• Stronger acid than acetic acid (pKa 1.35 vs 4.76)
• Reacts violently with bases, oxidizing agents
• Decomposes at high temps → phosgene, HCl
• Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from air)
Applications
✔ Pharmaceutical intermediate
✔ Chemical peeling agent (dermatology)
✔ Laboratory reagent
✔ Former use in wastewater treatment
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