Ethyl 4-chlorobutanoate stands out as an important raw material across chemical manufacturing, research, and pharmaceutical production. With its clear liquid form under normal temperatures, this compound is recognized for its distinct chlorinated structure and reactivity profile. Its molecular formula, C6H11ClO2, demonstrates the combination of ethyl and 4-chlorobutanoate groups which lend it unique properties. In labs and factories, the preference for this chemical often links to its predictable reactivity and ability to participate efficiently in a variety of synthetic processes. The HS Code for ethyl 4-chlorobutanoate typically falls under 2915.90, classifying it in international trade as a carboxylic acid and its derivatives, which is relevant for regulatory compliance and trade documentation.
Chemical structure determines everything about a substance’s behavior. Ethyl 4-chlorobutanoate shows one ethyl ester bonded to a 4-chlorinated butanoic acid backbone. Its molecular arrangement unlocks a suite of possibilities for further transformations in complex syntheses. The product features a CAS number 623-06-7, which researchers can use to reference safety, toxicity, and regulatory details. Most suppliers offer this material as a colorless to faintly yellow liquid, with purity often at or above 97%. The liquid form appeals to manufacturers because it offers easy integration without solubility challenges. Yet, in certain reactions or under specific storage conditions, one might notice minor crystalline deposits around caps or in cold storage, a feature important for those planning logistics or quality control steps. Specifications also typically include information on water content, refractive index, and possible impurity profiles, making batch selection critical for high-stakes work.
Measurement becomes a key player in using hazardous materials responsibly. Ethyl 4-chlorobutanoate weighs in with a specific gravity of around 1.07-1.10 g/cm³ at 25°C, making it heavier than water, which affects its behavior in reactions and waste solutions. Its boiling point generally registers between 207–212°C, meaning it can survive moderate heating without loss, though its steam may carry a faintly pungent odor, a detail that signals the need for decent ventilation. The molecular weight sits at 150.6 g/mol, allowing precise calculations for stoichiometric uses. Its density and formulation translate to measured pipetting and safe transfer practices, especially when scaled for industrial quantity. If exposed to air or light for extended periods, minor hydrolysis or discoloration may appear, which operators must monitor to maintain product quality.
The state of delivery matters as much as the ingredient. Most commercial shipments of ethyl 4-chlorobutanoate arrive as low-viscosity liquid in sealed steel drums or HDPE containers, preventing unwanted reactions with oxygen or moisture. Those seeking higher-purity material might access small crystalline lots or solutions freshly packed under inert gas, though liquid remains the standard due to stability and convenience. Requests for powder, flakes, or pearls rarely surface, since this compound prefers to stay as a stable liquid unless handled under demanding lab conditions. Packaging often notes volume in liters, with smaller bottles for research and metric tons for industrial production. Each form addresses a different user need, highlighting the broad audience this compound serves.
Ethyl 4-chlorobutanoate’s hazards stem from chemistry that gives it value in synthesis. From experience, gloves, protective eyewear, and a well-fitted respirator matter for every step involving volatile chlorinated esters. Contact with skin causes irritation, and its vapor, while heavy, can linger close to workbenches or in low spots on the floor, so fume extraction systems mean more than just ticking a box for compliance. The Safety Data Sheet tags it as harmful if inhaled or swallowed. Chemical spills require inert absorbents, and open flames present significant risk given its flashpoint profile. Strict storage away from oxidizers and bases helps prevent unwanted reactions. For disposal, regulations classify the substance as hazardous waste; management involves neutralization followed by specialized incineration. Proper training and attention to documented procedures help maintain a safe setting, protect health, and sustain regulatory approval.
Across chemical manufacturing, ethyl 4-chlorobutanoate works hard as a raw material for synthesizing pharmaceuticals, herbicides, flavors, and fragrances. The reactive functional groups—chlorine and ester—introduce versatility, meaning it adapts to wherever an alkylation or acylation step arises. For those in life sciences, this compound provides a starting point for complex molecule construction—something I’ve seen firsthand, where upstream selection impacts downstream purity and yield. As regulatory scrutiny rises, traceability and safety protocols grow ever more vital. By partnering with reputable sources and investing in reliable quality assurance, manufacturers offset risks from contaminants or unintended byproducts which could undermine both safety and end-product performance.
Newcomers and seasoned hands alike find that handling ethyl 4-chlorobutanoate demands respect for its physical and chemical nature. Risk assessments and hazard labeling protect not only individuals, but also the broader ecosystem of workers, logistics teams, and end-users. The right solution pairs safety training with access to up-to-date regulatory references, ensuring everyone stays informed about global HS classifications and disposal standards. Industry responses include moving toward closed system transfers and automated dispensers, minimizing splash, vapor, and accidental contact. Steady innovation in packaging supports safer, more efficient workflows, reducing downtime for cleaning and incident response. By focusing on substance-specific properties and acting on lessons from the field, enterprises can unlock ethyl 4-chlorobutanoate’s full value while safeguarding people, profits, and the planet.
