1-Chloropropane
[CAS# 540-54-5]

Identification

• Classification: Chemical reagent >> Organic reagent >> Halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbon
• Name: 1-Chloropropane
• Synonyms: n-Propyl chloride
• Molecular Formula: C₃H₇Cl
• Molecular Weight: 78.54
• CAS Registry Number: 540-54-5
• EC Number: 208-749-7
• SMILES: CCCCl

Properties

• Water solubility: 2.7 g/L (20 ºC)
• Density: 0.892 g/mL (Expl.)
• Melting point: -123 ºC (Expl.)
• Boiling point: 46-47 ºC (Expl.)
• Refractive index: 1.388 (Expl.)
• Flash point: -18 ºC (Expl.)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS02;GHS07 Danger
• Hazard Statements: H225-H302-H312-H332
• Precautionary Statements: P210-P233-P240-P241-P242-P243-P261-P264-P270-P271-P280-P301+P317-P302+P352-P303+P361+P353-P304+P340-P317-P321-P330-P362+P364-P370+P378-P403+P235-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Flammable liquids	Flam. Liq.	2	H225
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H312
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	2	H310
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	2	H330
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	2	H300

• Transport Information: UN 1278

Discovory and Applicatios

1-Chloropropane is an organic chemical compound with the molecular formula C3H7Cl. It is a halogenated aliphatic compound, consisting of a three-carbon chain (propane) with a chlorine atom attached to the first carbon. This structure gives it distinct chemical properties that make it useful in various industrial applications. The discovery and development of 1-chloropropane have been integral to the chemical industry, particularly for its role as an intermediate in the synthesis of other compounds.

1-Chloropropane is typically produced through the chlorination of propane, a process in which chlorine gas reacts with propane under specific conditions, such as the presence of heat or light. This reaction introduces the chlorine atom at the primary carbon position, resulting in the formation of 1-chloropropane. The discovery of this process dates back to the early 20th century when halogenation reactions began to play a significant role in synthetic organic chemistry. Researchers found that chlorination of propane could yield valuable intermediates for further chemical transformations, making 1-chloropropane a useful compound for industry.

One of the primary applications of 1-chloropropane is as a solvent. Its ability to dissolve a wide range of organic materials makes it suitable for use in coatings, adhesives, and cleaning products. It is commonly used in formulations that require a solvent with moderate polarity, as it can dissolve substances like resins, oils, and waxes. 1-Chloropropane is also used as a solvent in the production of lacquers and paints, where it helps dissolve the components and allows for a uniform application of the product.

Another key application of 1-chloropropane is in the production of chemicals such as propyl alcohol, which is an important solvent and intermediate in the manufacture of various chemicals. 1-Chloropropane can undergo nucleophilic substitution reactions, where the chlorine atom is replaced by a hydroxyl group to form propanol, a compound widely used in the chemical industry. This transformation is essential for the production of many consumer and industrial products, including pharmaceuticals, fragrances, and cleaning agents.

1-Chloropropane is also utilized in the synthesis of other chemicals, including certain plasticizers, surfactants, and agricultural chemicals. Its ability to undergo further chemical reactions, such as alkylation and substitution, makes it a valuable building block for a wide range of compounds used in different industries. For instance, it can be used as a reagent in the synthesis of surfactants used in detergents and emulsifiers.

Although 1-chloropropane has many industrial applications, its use requires careful handling due to its toxic nature. Exposure to the compound can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Therefore, safety precautions, including proper ventilation and protective equipment, are essential when working with 1-chloropropane in industrial settings. Regulatory agencies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) set guidelines for permissible exposure limits to ensure worker safety.

In conclusion, 1-chloropropane is an important chemical compound used primarily as a solvent and intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals. Its discovery and subsequent applications in various industries, including coatings, adhesives, and pharmaceuticals, have made it a versatile and valuable substance. However, its toxic properties require careful handling to ensure safety in both industrial and laboratory settings.

References

2022. Synthesis of the acid-base bifunctional hybrid catalyst via covalently anchored organomoieties on to the SBA-15: a recyclable catalyst for the one-pot preparation of 1-amidoalkyl-2-naphthols. Research on Chemical Intermediates, 48(10).
DOI: 10.1007/s11164-022-04802-w