1,3-Propanediol, 2-chloro-, also known by its molecular formula C3H7ClO2, stands out in the chemical world for combining both diol and chloro groups within a three-carbon backbone. The structure shows a central propane skeleton with two hydroxyl groups at positions 1 and 3, while a chlorine atom connects at position 2. This arrangement makes the compound reactive and useful in several industrial applications. Chemists often encounter this transparent liquid or solid when working with raw materials in specialty or intermediate chemical synthesis, highlighting its versatility.
This compound appears in forms such as flakes, solid powder, crystalline granules, or even as a viscous liquid, depending on storage and temperature conditions. Density usually hovers around 1.35 g/cm³ at 25°C, showing a heavier lean compared with water—enough to make a lab tech think twice before mixing without adequate safety measures. Melting point ranges broadly, often sitting between 35°C and 60°C depending on purity, while the boiling point exceeds 200°C. Not many people talk about its solubility, but it dissolves well in water and polar organic solvents, making it easy to manipulate in chemical labs or reactors. The molecular weight sits at 110.54 g/mol, something analysts focus on when balancing chemical equations for batch production or quality control. In bulk, this chemical can form pearls or coarse flakes—forms that affect handling, exposure, and risk during industrial transport or manual weighing.
On a process level, chemists identify this compound through its unique HS Code, usually falling under 2905.39 in international tariffs, covering similar halo-alcohols. The structure matters, especially during downstream processing; the presence of the reactive chlorine offers routes to derivatives, including more complex ethers, esters, or even as a stepping stone to pharmaceuticals. Manufacturing specs often list a minimum purity above 97%, with traces of by-products like 1,3-propanediol, hydrochloric acid, or other halogenated propanols carefully noted for compliance and safety. Lab data shows that its vapor pressure remains low, reducing risks of rapid evaporation but still requiring ventilation during handling to avoid unwanted exposure.
The chemical industry leans on 1,3-propanediol, 2-chloro- as both a starting and intermediate material for multiple value chains. It often acts as a building block for specialty polymers, resins, or surface coating agents thanks to its dual functional groups. While some small-scale use exists in research labs for synthetic routes, the bulk of demand comes from manufacturers producing adhesives, plasticizers, and certain fine chemicals. A handful of companies experiment with it in pharmaceutical syntheses, though regulatory hurdles keep tight control on purity and by-product content. Its adaptability lies in those chlorine and hydroxyl termini—offering anchoring points for chemical innovation. At times, a chemist working with tough-to-solve production problems turns to this molecule, leveraging its reactive nature to open new synthetic doors.
Dealing with 1,3-propanediol, 2-chloro- means recognizing both its usefulness and risks. The presence of a chloro group raises potential for harmful degradation products, especially if exposed to heat, strong acids, or bases. It carries irritant properties—capable of harming skin, eyes, and respiratory passages when mishandled. Material Safety Data Sheets recommend wearing gloves, eye protection, and lab coats, with good practice involving splash guards and well-ventilated workspaces. Accidental spills often require neutralization followed by careful collection and disposal consistent with hazardous chemical protocols. Health hazards stem mostly from inhalation of vapors and direct contact. Long-term effects aren’t as well tracked due to limited epidemiological data, so prudent users work under the assumption of harm until proven otherwise. Fire crews treat this material with respect, given its potential to evolve hydrogen chloride during combustion.
The chemical sector pushes toward greener chemistry wherever possible. For 1,3-propanediol, 2-chloro-, risk reduction begins at the source: investing in closed-system transfer, integrating local exhaust, and using digital monitoring to catch leaks before they spread. Down the line, regulatory agencies push for improved labeling and containment standards to minimize workplace incidents. Researchers share a duty to look for less hazardous alternatives, perhaps using biobased diols or removing chloro groups from synthetic plans where replacements hold up. Meanwhile, proper waste treatment—neutralization and incineration under controlled conditions—reduces environmental impact. Training remains a cornerstone. I’ve seen firsthand how hands-on safety training and regular hazard drills drive home a culture of respect for reactive chemicals. Industry partnerships between suppliers, waste handlers, and safety regulators close the loop, ensuring accountability from sourcing through final disposal.
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