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3-Chlorobenzoyl chloride (CAS No. 618-46-2), also known as m-chlorobenzoyl chloride, is a versatile intermediate in organic synthesis with applications spanning pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals. Its reactivity stems from the acyl chloride functional group, enabling its participation in nucleophilic substitution and condensation reactions.

1. Agrochemicals:
   • Serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of herbicides, notably methazole (methyl 3-chlorobenzoate derivative), a selective pre-emergence herbicide for controlling broadleaf weeds in crops like soybeans and cotton.
2. Pharmaceuticals:
   • Utilized in the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and intermediates. For instance, it participates in the synthesis of rebamipide, a gastroprotective agent, and ranitidine bismuth citrate, an antiulcer drug.
   • Acts as a building block for amidation and esterification reactions, facilitating the introduction of 3-chlorobenzoyl moieties into drug candidates.
3. Specialty Chemicals:
   • Employed in the manufacture of dyes, pigments, and optical brighteners, where its chlorine substitution and acyl chloride functionality contribute to color development and molecular rigidity.
   • Functions as a cross-linking agent in polymer chemistry, enhancing material properties such as thermal stability and chemical resistance.
4. Organic Synthesis:
   • Enables the formation of amides and esters through reactions with amines and alcohols, respectively.
   • Acts as a precursor to 3-chlorobenzoic acid via hydrolysis, which is further utilized in pharmaceutical and agrochemical formulations.

Handling Precautions:
Due to its corrosive nature and reactivity with water (liberating hydrogen chloride), 3-chlorobenzoyl chloride must be handled under inert atmospheric conditions, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and fume hoods. Storage requires tight sealing in cool, dry environments away from moisture and oxidizing agents.