Why Is Dichloroacetic Acid Important in Research and Industrial Chemistry?
Technical Introduction
Dichloroacetic acid (DCAA) is a halogenated carboxylic acid with the chemical formula C₂H₂Cl₂O₂.
It is a colorless to slightly yellow liquid with a sharp, pungent odor and is highly soluble in water, alcohol, and ether.
Structurally, it is a derivative of acetic acid where two hydrogen atoms on the methyl group are replaced by chlorine atoms, resulting in strong acidity and distinctive reactivity.
DCAA is known for its role as a metabolic modulator in biochemical research and as a specialty reagent in chemical synthesis.
Applications
1. Laboratory & Research Use
Studied for its ability to modulate mitochondrial function in experimental cancer and metabolic disorder research.
Used as a reagent in organic synthesis, particularly in chlorination reactions and the preparation of other halogenated compounds.
2. Industrial Applications
Serves as an intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, herbicides, and specialty chemicals.
Used in water treatment research as a disinfection by-product marker.
3. Polymer Modification
Can be used to modify polymer properties by partial chlorination of polymeric chains.
Advantages
High Reactivity: Chlorine atoms enhance electrophilic properties.
Water Solubility: Easy to handle in aqueous systems.
Versatility: Useful in both lab-scale and industrial-scale chemistry.
Typical Parameters
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₂H₂Cl₂O₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 128.94 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
| Purity (%) | ≥99.0 |
| Boiling Point (°C) | 194–196 |
| Density (g/cm³) | ~1.57 @ 20 °C |
| pKa | ~1.3 |
| Solubility | Miscible with water, ethanol, ether |
| Storage | Store in a cool, ventilated place, away from bases and oxidizing agents |
| Shelf Life | 12 months |
FAQs
Q1: Is dichloroacetic acid hazardous?
A1: Yes. It is corrosive to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Direct contact can cause burns.
Q2: Is it a regulated chemical?
A2: In many jurisdictions, its use in drinking water treatment is controlled due to its identification as a disinfection by-product.
Q3: Can DCAA be used directly as a medicine?
A3: No, it is only used under strict research protocols; it is not an approved pharmaceutical for general use.
Q4: How is it disposed of?
A4: Neutralize with a suitable base under controlled conditions and follow hazardous waste disposal regulations.
Q5: Is it volatile?
A5: It has low volatility but strong vapor-phase irritancy; use in fume hood environments.
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