Inorganic Acids & Bases
REACH
Thionyl chloride
CAS Number
7719-09-7
EC Number
231-748-8
Abbreviation
SOCl2
What is Thionyl chloride?
Thionyl chloride (CAS 7719-09-7), also known as sulfurous oxychloride and commonly referenced by its formula SOCl2, is a reactive chlorinating agent.
Where is Thionyl chloride used?
- Pharmaceutical synthesis: reagent for producing acid chlorides as activated intermediates in API synthesis
- Agrochemicals: chlorination of precursor compounds for herbicides, insecticides and fungicide active ingredients
- Specialty intermediates: dehydrating agent in the preparation of sulfonyl chlorides for dye and fine chemical production
- Battery electrolytes: in lithium-thionyl chloride primary cells it acts as both solvent and active cathode material.
Commercial specifications
- Purity levels commonly range from 97% to 99%+ for pharmaceutical and fine chemical applications.
Other Names (Synonyms)
sulfurous oxychloride|sulfurous dichloride|Sulfur oxychloride|sulfur dichloride oxide|sulfur chloride oxide|Sulfinyl dichloride|sulfinyl chloride|SOCl2
What are the physical properties of Thionyl chloride?
Melting Point -104.5 °C
Boiling Point 76 °C @ Press: 760 Torr
Density 1.638 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point 105°C
Appearance Thionyl chloride is a pale yellow to reddish liquid. Suffocating odor like sulfur dioxide. Fumes form when exposed to moist air.
Color ≤50(APHA)
Odor Characteristic, pungent odor
Form Liquid
Water Solubility REACTS
Vapor Pressure 97 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.518(lit.)
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Thionyl chloride?
HS Code 28121095
UN Number 1836
ADR Class 8
Packing Group I
Storage Class 6.1D - Non-combustible, acute toxic Cat.3
toxic hazardous materials or hazardous materials causing chronic effects
WGK (Germany) 1