2-Chloroethyl-Benzene: Physical and Chemical Characteristics

What Is 2-Chloroethyl-Benzene?

2-Chloroethyl-benzene, a chemical compound known for its distinctive molecular structure, features an ethyl group attached to a benzene ring and a chlorine atom occupying the terminal position of the ethyl chain. Its chemical formula stands as C8H9Cl, and its molecular weight registers at 140.61 g/mol. At standard conditions, this compound presents itself as a colorless to pale yellow liquid. These physical traits make identification straightforward for professionals who've worked hands-on with aromatic chemicals. The scent carries the typical sweet, aromatic note, common among benzene derivatives, but with a sharper, slightly chlorinated nuance.

Products and Applications

Among raw materials for organic synthesis, 2-chloroethyl-benzene often finds a home in chemical manufacturing, acting as a building block in the creation of resins, agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and specialty solvents. Certain reactions exploit its reactivity, especially in bridging chlorinated ethyl groups into extended molecular structures. This versatility means researchers and industry workers regularly encounter it while chasing innovative solutions in applied chemistry, or seeking efficient intermediates for new product development. The flexibility of the molecule, both in physical handling and synthetic chemistry, contributes to its staying power in the toolkit of experienced chemists.

Structural and Molecular Information

The molecular structure draws a clear line: one benzene ring bonded to a two-carbon chain, which terminates in a chlorine atom. This specific arrangement establishes a stable, yet reactive profile — the aromatic ring strengthens molecular stability, while the halogen and the ethyl chain both provide reactive points during chemical transformations. The compound’s CAS number (108-04-9) uniquely identifies it, ensuring precise communication across international supply chains. Its three-dimensional configuration gives rise to predictable interactions, and the combination of aromaticity and halogenation calls for mindful approach to handling and storage.

Property, Density, and State

In its pure form, 2-chloroethyl-benzene stays liquid at room temperature, with a boiling point around 209–211 degrees Celsius and a melting point well below zero, often near −73 degrees Celsius. The density hovers at approximately 1.05 g/cm³. Unlike powders, flakes, or pearls, the liquid form dominates industrial practice, creating less mess and easing transfer between containers. Under certain processes, such as extreme cooling or solvent evaporation, crystals might form, giving a clear visual signal of purity or contamination. Solubility in water remains low due to the hydrocarbon skeleton, though organic solvents like ether and chloroform dissolve it readily, which proves handy in practical laboratory settings.

Material Handling and Storage

Direct experience handling 2-chloroethyl-benzene brings one quickly to the question of safety. This compound counts as hazardous, with both flammable and harmful attributes. Inhalation or skin absorption brings irritation and possible systemic toxicity. Storage demands well-ventilated areas, away from heat sources, and inside tightly sealed containers fabricated from compatible materials. Wearing protective gloves, goggles, and using fume hoods isn't just regulatory theory; these steps prevent actual incidents. Emergency procedures include access to eyewash stations and safety showers, practical elements most chemical workers test at least once in their careers, often during drills but occasionally in unscripted moments. Awareness of its HS Code (290369) supports compliance in logistics, customs clearance, and regulatory filings — tangible steps that keep workplaces in operation and employees out of trouble.

Formula and Specifications

Detailed specifications for 2-chloroethyl-benzene usually outline minimum purity (often above 98%), appearance benchmarks, density, boiling and melting points, and acceptable thresholds for common impurities. Labs and factories vet incoming material against these standards with routine spectroscopy and chromatography. Incorrect specifications lead to costly synthesis failures or reductions in product quality. For new procurement staff or quality assurance professionals, knowing the exact benchmarks for approval often means saving time, budget, and reputation.

Safe and Hazardous Chemical Nature

Calling this compound safe misses the point; handling it safely defines the real discussion. The main health risks include respiratory, dermal, and ocular hazards. Medicinal chemists and production engineers with years in the field can recount stories where quick thinking and good PPE prevented serious injury. Every MSDS warns about proper first aid, spill containment, and fire response. Training translates regulatory guidance into muscle memory, keeping small mistakes from turning into larger crises. Engineers who design containment and ventilation systems earn every paycheck by translating chemical characteristics — like volatility and toxicity — into hard-edged engineering controls and written procedures. Those who want to work around chemicals like 2-chloroethyl-benzene long-term learn these safety rules until they become habit.

2-Chloroethyl-Benzene in Industry: Raw Material Insights

In industrial chemistry, 2-chloroethyl-benzene often takes center stage as a raw material feeding larger processes. Since it bridges chlorinated and aromatic compounds, companies turn to it for efficient chain extensions, halogenations, and other key steps in organic reactions. I've worked on teams puzzling over supply shortages or changes in purity, and the solution always revolves around steady supplier relationships and diligent quality testing. Challenges with hazardous shipment regulations or customs clearance occasionally slow things down — knowing the right paperwork and maintaining close communication with shippers and regulators always smooths the process. Firms that treat this chemical as a commodity without respect for its hazards or variability often find themselves with process slowdowns or, worse, workplace accidents. By keeping quality specs and safety at the forefront, teams turn chemistry and logistics challenges into manageable tasks.