You'll frequently find 2-Chloroacetamide – also dubbed chloroacetylamine or α-chloroacetamide – described as a white crystalline powder in lab inventories. But don't let its unassuming appearance fool you. This compound, definitively identified as CAS 79-07-2, punches far above its weight class as a cornerstone intermediate in organic and pharmaceutical manufacturing circles. Its unique structure underpins countless pathways to complex molecules.

Breaking Down the Basics: Key Properties

  Formula & Mass: C₂H₄ClNO tipping the scales at 93.51 g/mol
  Physical State: Presents as a white crystalline solid
  Thermal Profile: Melts between 116–118°C and boils around 224.5°C
  Stability Notes: Shows a flash point of 170°C; density measures ~0.84 g/cm³
  Storage Tip: Best kept sealed and dry below 30°C to maintain integrity

What makes this material particularly valuable is its dual-reactive nature. That amide group paired with an activated chlorine atom essentially gives chemists *two* functional handles for manipulation. Think nucleophilic substitutions kicking off reactions, followed by the amide enabling condensations – it’s a versatile toolkit in one molecule.

Industry veterans and researchers alike leverage 2-Chloroacetamide for several critical tasks:1.Chloroacetonitrile Production: Acts as the essential precursor for this vital nitrile building block.
2.Pharma Building Blocks: Proves indispensable for synthesizing sulfanilamide backbones, most notably sulfamethoxazole pyrazine – a heavyweight antibacterial agent.
3.Heterocyclic Synthesis: Its reactivity makes it a go-to reagent for constructing tricky nitrogen-containing rings, especially pyrazine derivatives.
4.Chloroacetyl Transfer: Provides a reliable method for installing the chloroacetyl moiety (–COCH₂Cl) onto more complex scaffolds during multi-step syntheses.

Why Labs and Plants Rely On It

Beyond its clear chemical utility, practical factors drive 2-Chloroacetamide's popularity. Its stability and crystalline form translate to straightforward handling and long-term storage logistics – a significant advantage in bulk fine chemical operations. Lab teams appreciate how smoothly it integrates into multi-component reactions.

The Bottom Line

Simply put, 2-Chloroacetamide (CAS 79-07-2) is a workhorse. Its balanced reactivity profile and user-friendly physical characteristics cement its role in synthesizing everything from chloroacetonitrile to life-saving sulfonamide drugs. For teams navigating complex organic pathways or scaling pharmaceutical intermediates, this small molecule often provides the crucial link. Need precise specs or sourcing advice? Our technical specialists are ready to assist.