Chemical Properties
Benzyl 2-chloroacetate is a colorless, slightly viscous liquid. Insoluble in water, soluble in alcohol and
oils. Sp.Gr = 1.22. Mild, Jasmin-type odor, floral-fruity, of
considerable tenacity.
Uses
Benzyl chloroacetate may be used:
- in the synthesis of monoesters of phosphonoacetic acid
- in the synthesis of N-benzoyl-glycyl- hydroxyl acetic acid, ester substrate for carboxypeptidase Y catalyzed peptide synthesis
- as reagent in the total syntheses of the (±)-di-O-methyl ethers of the norlignans sequirin-A, agatharesinol, and hinokiresinol, and of (±)-tri-O-methyl sequirin-E
Preparation
From Benzyl alcohol and Monochloroacetic acid by direct esterification under azeotropic conditions.
General Description
Benzyl chloroacetate is an ester. Could find usc in Jasmin, Lilac. Appleblossom fragrances, particularly for soap,
where this ester has greater fixative effect than
the Benzyl acetate. However, this ester must be absolutely
acid-free to be permitted or recommended for
use in any cosmetic product. The acid is
highly corrosive. Older odor-descriptions of
this ester seem to indicate that the product
has not always been very pure.
Safety Profile
Moderately toxic byintraperitoneal route. When heated todecomposition it emits toxic fumes of Cl
- .
