Chemical Properties
Mecoprop is a colorless, crystalline solid.
Odorless.
Definition
ChEBI: 2-(4-chloro-2-methylphenoxy)propanoic acid is a monocarboxylic acid that is lactic acid in which the hydroxyl hydrogen is replaced by a 4-chloro-2-methylphenyl group. It is an aromatic ether, a monocarboxylic acid and a member of monochlorobenzenes. It is functionally related to a rac-lactic acid.
Production Methods
The industrial synthesis of mecoprop begins with the chlorination of o-cresol (2-methylphenol) to yield 4-chloro-2-methylphenol. This intermediate undergoes etherification with propylene oxide or 2-chloropropionic acid under basic conditions to form the phenoxypropionic acid backbone. The reaction is typically catalysed by alkali metal hydroxides and conducted in polar solvents to ensure high yield and regioselectivity. The resulting racemic mixture contains both R- and S-enantiomers, although the R-isomer (mecoprop-P) is the biologically active form and may be enriched or isolated in some formulations.
Mechanism of action
Selective, systemic, absorbed by leaves with translocation. Synthetic auxin.
Potential Exposure
Mecoprop is a chlorophenoxy-herbicide, used to control many broadleaf weeds. A derivative of phenoxy aryloxyalkanoic acid.
Shipping
UN3345 Phenoxyacetic acid derivative pesticide,
solid, toxic, Hazard Class: 6.1; Labels: 6.1-Poisonous
materials
Incompatibilities
Mecoprop is a weak acid. Incompatible with strong bases and oxidizers.
Waste Disposal
In accordance with
40CFR165, follow recommendations for the disposal of
pesticides and pesticide containers. Must be disposed properly by following package label directions or by contacting
your local or federal environmental control agency, or by
contacting your regional EPA office.
