Chloroacetic Acid CAS 79-11-8

• Cellulose Derivatives: The single largest application is the manufacture of Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC), which is widely used as a thickener and stabilizer in food, pharmaceuticals, oil drilling muds, and detergents.
• Agrochemical Industry: Functions as a critical raw material for synthesizing essential herbicides and pesticides, including 2,4-D (2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid), MCPA, and dimethoate.
• Dye and Pigment Production: Extensively used in the dye industry to produce indigo dye and various chlorinated organic pigments.
• Pharmaceutical Synthesis: Serves as an important building block to synthesize caffeine, barbiturates, adrenaline, vitamins, and various amino acids.
• Surfactants: Utilized in creating amphoteric surfactants like cocamidopropyl betaine, which are highly valued in personal care and cosmetic formulations for their mildness.

FAQs about Chloroacetic Acid (MCA)

Q1: What are the primary industrial uses of Monochloroacetic Acid (MCA)?

MCA is primarily used as a highly reactive chemical intermediate. Its most prominent application is the production of Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC). It is also heavily relied upon in the agrochemical sector for manufacturing herbicides (like 2,4-D) and in the pharmaceutical industry for synthesizing active ingredients such as caffeine and vitamins.

Q2: How should Chloroacetic Acid be handled and stored safely?

Because MCA is highly toxic, corrosive, and hygroscopic, it must be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated chemical warehouse, strictly segregated from alkalis, oxidizing agents, and food chemicals. Operators must wear full personal protective equipment (PPE), including acid-resistant suits, rubber gloves, and full-face respirators. Containers must remain tightly sealed to avoid air and moisture absorption, which can cause deliquescence.

Q3: What impurities are typically monitored in high-purity MCA?

In industrial manufacturing, the key impurities monitored are Dichloroacetic Acid (DCA) and unreacted Acetic Acid. For high-purity applications, DCA is strictly limited (typically below 0.5%) because excessive DCA can interfere with reaction yields and alter the performance properties of downstream derivatives like CMC.

Q4: What is your standard loading capacity for export shipping?

Our standard packaging consists of 25kg bags. For a standard 20GP container, we typically load 20 to 22 Metric Tons (MT) with pallets, depending on the weight constraints of the destination port and maritime transit safety regulations.