About Ethyl Chloroformate:
- It is a colorless to yellowish liquid with a pungent odor.
- Properties of Ethyl Chlorofomate
- It hydrolyses in the presence of water.
- It is very toxic by inhalation and corrosive to metals and tissue.
- Its vapors are heavier than air.
- It is highly flammable and emits fumes containing HCl on contact with moist air.
- It decomposes exothermically.
- It is slightly soluble in water; soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and ether.
- It should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area in tightly closed containers away from sources of ignition and incompatible materials.
- Uses:
- It was used in the synthesis of nitrile oxides.
- It is used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and other specialty chemicals.
- Health Impact: Prolonged exposure to low concentrations or short exposure to high concentrations may have adverse health effects from inhalation.
