Chloroacetic acid is a halogenated derivative of acetic acid that is used in manufacturing drugs, dyes, pesticides, and drilling fluids. Moreover, it is widely used to manufacture thioglycolic acid, herbicides, and cellulose ethers. It is industrially known as monochloroacetic acid (MCA). MCA is used as an intermediate in the manufacturing of various agrochemicals, such as 2, 4-D, glyphosate. Chloroacetic acid is also used as an acidic derivative such as amide, anhydride, hydrazide, ester, salt, and acyl chloride due to the high reactivity of the carboxylic acid group and substitution of the direct interaction of chlorine atoms.
However, chloroacetic acid is toxic if swallowed or exposed to the skin. Moreover, it causes severe skin burns and eye damage if inhaled. Furthermore, according to a European Union regulation, Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), chloroacetic acid is toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects and may be corrosive to metals. Contact can severely burn and irritate the skin and eyes with possible eye damage. Breathing can irritate the throat, nose, and lungs causing wheezing, coughing, and/or shortness of breath. High or repeated exposure may affect the kidneys.
Chloroacetic acid is on the Hazardous Substance List because it is cited by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), and the Department of Transportation (DOT).
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