chloroacetaldehyde

Chloroacetaldehyde, also known as 2-chloroacetaldehyde, is an organochlorine compound with the formula C2H3ClO. It features an aldehyde functional group (CHO) with a chlorine substituent on the adjacent carbon, giving the structure CH2Cl-CHO. It is commonly described as an α-chloroaldehyde.

In nomenclature, it is referred to as 2-chloroacetaldehyde or α-chloroacetaldehyde. The molecule is a small, highly reactive aldehyde used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis.

Production and handling ranges: Chloroacetaldehyde is typically produced by oxidation of 2-chloroethanol or through other controlled methods that generate the α-chloroaldehyde moiety. It is a volatile and reactive chemical that requires careful handling under appropriate safety protocols, including use in a well-ventilated hood and with suitable personal protective equipment.

Reactivity and applications: The aldehyde group makes chloroacetaldehyde susceptible to nucleophilic addition and condensation reactions. The adjacent α-chloro substituent further activates the molecule toward nucleophilic substitution and related transformations, enabling access to a variety of β-haloaldehyde derivatives and heterocycles. Consequently, it is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and other specialty organic compounds, often undergoing further transformation or protection as part of a synthetic sequence.

Safety and environmental aspects: Chloroacetaldehyde is corrosive and irritating to skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract. It is toxic and should be handled with appropriate containment and disposal procedures to minimize exposure and environmental release.