Agrochemicals

Hexachloroacetone

Chemical Name: 1,1,1,3,3,3-Hexachloro-2-propanone
Synonyms: HCA; Perchloroacetone; Hexachloropropanone
CAS Number: 116-16-5
Molecular Formula: C₃Cl₆O (or Cl₃C-CO-CCl₃)
Molecular Weight: 264.75 g/mol

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
• Odor: Pungent, sweetish (similar to chloroform)
• Melting Point: –2 °C (28 °F)
• Boiling Point: 204–205 °C (399–401 °F)
• Density: 1.74 g/cm³ (at 20 °C)
• Vapor Pressure: ~0.3 mmHg (at 20 °C)
• Solubility:
  • Slightly soluble in water (decomposes slowly).
  • Soluble in organic solvents (ethanol, ether, benzene).

Chemical Properties

• Reactivity:
  • Reacts with strong bases, reducing agents, and metals.
  • Releases toxic gases (e.g., phosgene, hydrogen chloride) upon decomposition.
• Stability: Stable under normal conditions but hydrolyzes in water/alkaline solutions.

Hazard and Safety Information (GHS)

• Hazard Symbols: T (Toxic), N (Environmental Hazard), Xi (Irritant)
• Hazard Statements:
  • H301: Toxic if swallowed.
  • H311: Toxic in contact with skin.
  • H315: Causes skin irritation.
  • H319: Causes serious eye irritation.
  • H335: May cause respiratory irritation.
  • H411: Toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects.
• Precautionary Measures:
  • P261: Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas.
  • P273: Avoid release to the environment.
  • P280: Wear gloves/protective clothing/eye protection.

Storage & Handling

• Store in a cool, dry, ventilated area in tightly sealed containers.
• Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flames (non-flammable but decomposes at high temps).
• Use chemical-resistant gloves (neoprene, nitrile) and fume hood for handling.

Applications

• Intermediate in pesticide/herbicide synthesis (e.g., alachlor).
• Organic synthesis (chlorination agent).
• Formerly used as a lacrimator (tear gas).