Methyl 2-chloropropionate

Chemical properties

clear colorless liquid

The Uses of Methyl 2-chloropropionate

Methyl 2-chloropropionate is used as initiator during the synthesis of acrylamide homopolymers and acrylamide-N-isopropylacrylamide block copolymers. It is also used to produce 2-thiophen-2-yl-propionic acid methyl ester.

General Description

A colorless liquid. Flash point 101°F. Density 8.9 lb / gal. Insoluble in water. Irritating and narcotic in high concentrations. Used as a solvent and for making other chemicals and dyes.

Air & Water Reactions

Flammable. Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

METHYL CHLOROPROPIONATE is a halogenated ester. Reacts with acids to liberate heat along with alcohols and acids. Strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Reacts exothermically with bases. Flammable hydrogen is generated with alkali metals and hydrides.

Health Hazard

May cause toxic effects if inhaled or absorbed through skin. Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.

Fire Hazard

HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water.

Safety Profile

Poison by intraperitoneal route. See also ESTERS. A flammable liquid when exposed to heat or flame. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of Cl-.