Benzoyl chloride

Benzoyl chloride (CAS 98-88-4) is a high-reactivity acylating agent used across pharmaceutical synthesis, agrochemical manufacturing, and specialty chemical production. It introduces the benzoyl group into target molecules, enabling the construction of esters, amides, and anhydrides at industrial scale. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of active ingredients, including analgesics, antimicrobials, and UV-absorbing compounds used in topical formulations. Cosmetic chemists use it to produce benzoate esters and benzoyl peroxide precursors.

These precursors function as preservatives and antimicrobial agents in personal care products. It is also employed in the production of dyes, resins, and agrochemical intermediates where controlled benzoylation is required for specific chemical reactions. In laboratory and biotech settings, it acts as a derivatizing agent for analytical workflows, enabling detection and characterization of alcohols and amines. This versatility makes it an essential component for research and development across various scientific disciplines.

Benzoyl chloride is supplied as a colorless to pale yellow liquid in standard packaging ranging from small reagent quantities to bulk drums and ISO tanks. Technical and reagent grades are the most commercially available options for industrial buyers. Purity specifications typically range from 98% to 99% or higher depending on the specific grade required. Buyers sourcing for pharmaceutical applications should confirm compliance with relevant pharmacopoeial or GMP documentation requirements for their supply chain.

Standard quality benchmarks often include USP, BP, or EP standards depending on the region of use. Ensuring these quality standards are met is critical for maintaining the integrity of the final chemical or pharmaceutical product being manufactured.