Chloroacetic acid

Chloroacetic acid (CAS 79-11-8), also known as chloroethanoic acid, 2-chloroacetic acid, and α-chloroacetic acid, is a halogenated organic acid produced by the chlorination of acetic acid. It is commercially referenced under abbreviations including MCA and the Russian trade designation MKhUK.

In agrochemical synthesis, chloroacetic acid serves as a key alkylating intermediate in the production of herbicides such as 2,4-D and glyphosate, where its reactive chlorine atom facilitates nucleophilic substitution. In carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) manufacturing for textile and paper processing, it reacts with cellulose under alkaline conditions to introduce carboxymethyl groups, modifying viscosity and solubility.

Chloroacetic acid is supplied in technical and high-purity grades and is subject to REACH registration requirements within the EU. It is handled under strict classification protocols due to its acute toxicity profile. Packaging formats typically include drums and IBC containers for bulk industrial supply.