2-Chloro-1,3-Propanediol, better known in the chemical world as α-Chlorohydrin, stands out as a chemical intermediate with plenty of industrial uses. This material comes from monochlorination of glycerol and has wound its way into all kinds of sectors, from pharmaceuticals to specialty resin manufacture. Its structure brings together one chlorine atom and two hydroxyl (alcohol) groups, which opens a door to further chemical reactions. From the outside, this compound looks like a white crystalline solid or sometimes flakes or powders, depending on how it’s processed and stored. It offers a molecular formula of C3H7ClO2 and a molar mass around 110.54 g/mol.
This material comes with a straight-forward structure: a three-carbon backbone where a single chlorine atom sits on the terminal carbon, joined by hydroxyl groups on the first and third carbons. Structurally, it’s 2-chloropropane-1,3-diol. This setup gives it an ability to act as both an alcohol and a halide, which explains its attractive chemistry in industry. Boiling point hovers at approximately 213-215°C, and melting point falls into the region of 67°C. Solubility ranks high in water and alcohols, letting it blend easily in aqueous and alcohol-based processes. Specific density is close to 1.32 g/cm3 at room temperature—denser than many related compounds, so any handling or storage requires sturdy containers labeled according to local law.
You’ll find 2-Chloro-1,3-Propanediol in a few different forms—crystalline solid is most common, but some producers deliver it as flakes, powder, or even in small pearls for measured dosing in industrial settings. In some environments, it can show up as a clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid if ambient temperature stays above its melting point. Because the compound absorbs moisture from the air, storage in tightly closed containers becomes essential to keep its purity stable. Purity standards usually run above 98%, and reputable suppliers often keep a batch record for every drum or bag, relying on high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas chromatography (GC) to provide an assurance of quality.
The real-world utility of 2-Chloro-1,3-Propanediol starts with its role as a key intermediate in the synthesis of epichlorohydrin—a valuable precursor for epoxy resins, adhesives, and coatings found in construction, electronics, and automotive parts. Beyond this, the compound walks its way into pharmaceutical syntheses as a building block for antibiotics and other specialty drugs. Food safety experts know it as a contaminant produced during the processing of certain foods, notably soy sauce and refined vegetable oils. Though its generation in food worries regulators, it’s the sheer breadth of its other uses that defines its reputation. In raw materials production, this chemical’s dual functionality—both halide and diol—lets chemists make all sorts of derivatives for plastics, surfactants, and biocides.
Trading 2-Chloro-1,3-Propanediol involves careful customs declarations. The Harmonized System (HS) Code for this compound falls under 29055990, categorizing it among other chlorinated alcohols and epoxides. Regulations vary from region to region—that comes from concerns about potential health risks and its hazardous properties. The difference between beneficial intermediate and regulated contaminant depends on context. Across the board, shipping this compound means including Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) to comply with global shipping and labeling protocols.
Calling out the health profile of 2-Chloro-1,3-Propanediol isn’t fearmongering; it’s a necessity. Classified as both hazardous and harmful to health, this chemical can irritate eyes and skin if handled without gloves or goggles. Chronic exposure has raised concerns among scientists about its carcinogenic risk, and food safety agencies have set strict limits on its presence in finished products. Workers in chemical plants handling this raw material need proper training, ventilation, and personal protective equipment. Spill clean-ups follow established protocols—neutralize, contain, and dispose of in line with hazardous waste regulations. Environmental agencies watch for accidental release because the compound can persist and potentially bioaccumulate.
Routine safety audits, close attention to personal protective gear, and strict facility design help dial down the dangers of processing and transporting 2-Chloro-1,3-Propanediol. Waste products and residues warrant serious attention: incineration in authorized facilities breaks down the compound safely, while untreated dumping risks pollution and fines. Chemical manufacturers search for alternative raw materials and greener reaction conditions as part of industry-wide pushes for sustainability. Food processors work on refining production methods to curb byproduct formation, ensuring food quality remains high while consumer risks drop.
Every time a chemical like 2-Chloro-1,3-Propanediol comes up in news or regulatory circles, it’s easy to focus only on the hazards. What matters just as much is a candid recognition of the compound’s value across sectors, balanced by realistic discussions about health and safety. With smart, practical risk management, regulatory compliance, and honest communication between suppliers, handlers, and regulators, society benefits from what this chemical enables, from next-generation plastics to breakthrough medications. That means everyone—from freight loaders and lab technicians to policy-makers—has a stake in getting the details right and making continuous improvements as science and industry move forward.
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