Acetyl chloride

Acetyl chloride (CAS 75-36-5, EC 200-865-6) is an acylating agent commercially known under the names acetic chloride and ethanoyl chloride. It carries no assigned E-code and is classified within the pharmaceutical intermediates category under HS code 29159080.

In pharmaceutical synthesis, acetyl chloride introduces acetyl groups onto amine or hydroxyl functional groups, enabling the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients and intermediates through controlled acylation reactions. In personal care formulations, it functions as a precursor in manufacturing antimicrobial and skin-conditioning compounds, where its high reactivity with nucleophiles drives efficient derivatization at low temperatures.

Acetyl chloride is supplied in reagent and technical grades as a fuming liquid, handled under anhydrous conditions due to its moisture sensitivity. It falls under REACH registration requirements for European procurement and is available in laboratory quantities through to bulk packaging in corrosion-resistant containers. Buyers should confirm grade specifications against Ph.Eur. or internal quality standards prior to ordering.