epichlorohydriin

Epichlorohydrin, also known as 1-chloro-2,3-epoxypropane, is a colorless to pale yellow volatile liquid with a sharp odor. It contains an epoxide ring adjacent to a chlorine-substituted carbon, giving it both ether-like and halide reactivity. Its chemical formula is C3H5ClO. It is a key industrial building block and is frequently referred to by its abbreviation ECH.

Industrial production and applications: Epichlorohydrin is produced mainly via a chlorohydrin process starting from propylene, chlorine, and water, leading to allyl chloride which is subsequently converted to epichlorohydrin. An alternative route uses glycerol derivatives. The substance is a principal precursor for epoxy resins and glycidyl ethers; it is used to make epoxy resins, plasticizers, surfactants, and various glycidyl compounds, including the well-known diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (BADGE), which serves as a major component in coatings, adhesives, and composite materials.

Physical properties and reactivity: Epichlorohydrin is reactive due to its strained epoxide ring and the adjacent chlorine-bearing carbon. It readily participates in ring-opening reactions with nucleophiles, forming a range of products such as glycidyl ethers and esters. It can hydrolyze or react with water under certain conditions, and it reacts with bases and nucleophiles in characteristic substitution and opening reactions. It is miscible with many organic solvents and is typically handled as a hazardous chemical in controlled industrial settings.

Safety and regulation: Epichlorohydrin is classified as a hazardous chemical with potential health and environmental risks. It is an irritant to skin and eyes and can be hazardous if inhaled or ingested. Handling requires appropriate engineering controls, personal protective equipment, and proper storage and waste disposal in accordance with regulatory guidelines.