Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA)

Other Names:
Chloroacetic Acid, Mono Chloroethanoic Acid, Chloracetic Acid, α-Chloroacetic Acid, MCAA

Specification Summary

Purity: 80–99.9% (Technical, Food, and Pharmaceutical Grades)
Form: White crystalline powder, flakes, or colorless to slightly yellow liquid (80% aqueous solution)
CAS No.: 79-11-8
Molecular Formula: C₂H₃ClO₂
Molecular Weight: 94.49 g/mol

Product Description

Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) is a colorless to white crystalline solid or liquid with a pungent, vinegar-like odor. It is highly soluble in water, methanol, ethanol, and acetone, forming a strongly acidic solution (pH ~2.85 for 1% solution). MCAA is highly corrosive to metals, skin, and eyes, and reacts exothermically with bases, alcohols, and oxidizers. Its hygroscopic nature and rapid absorption through skin necessitate careful handling and airtight storage.

Monochloroacetic Acid Specification Table

Property	Specification / Value
CAS Number	79-11-8
Molecular Formula	C₂H₃ClO₂
Molecular Weight	94.49 g/mol
Appearance	White crystals, flakes, or liquid
Purity	80–99.9%
Density (20°C)	1.404 g/cm³ (solid)
Melting Point	60–63°C
Boiling Point	189°C
Solubility in Water	4,210 g/L (20°C)
pH (1% Solution)	~2.85
Vapor Pressure	0.2 hPa (solid), 10 hPa (solution)
Impurities	≤0.3% Dichloroacetic Acid (DCAA)

Downloadable TDS

A comprehensive Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is available, providing chemical properties, safety guidelines, handling instructions, and compliance with OSHA, REACH, and EPA standards.

Application Sectors and Industries of Monochloroacetic Acid

Food Industry
MCAA is a key raw material for carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), a thickening and stabilizing agent in dairy products, baked goods, and beverages. It enhances texture and shelf life while complying with food-grade purity standards.

Agrochemicals
Used to synthesize herbicides like 2,4-D and MCPA, MCAA controls broadleaf weeds in crops. Its reactivity enables efficient production of chlorophenoxyacetic acids critical for modern agriculture.

Pharmaceuticals
Acts as an intermediate in antibiotics, vitamins (B1, B6), and antiretroviral drugs. High-purity MCAA ensures compliance with pharmacopeial standards for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).

Personal Care & Cosmetics
Produces thioglycolic acid for hair relaxers and depilatories. MCAA-derived surfactants enhance foam stability in shampoos and skincare products.

Detergents & Surfactants
Synthesizes betaines and imidazolines for industrial cleaners and mild detergents. These compounds improve grease removal and compatibility with sensitive skin.

Water Treatment
Used in ion-exchange resins to remove heavy metals and regulate pH in municipal and industrial wastewater systems.

Textile Manufacturing
Modifies cellulose fibers to improve dye absorption and fabric durability. MCAA-based agents enhance color fastness in synthetic and natural textiles.

Adhesives & Polymers
Produces specialty adhesives for packaging and construction. MCAA derivatives improve adhesion strength and moisture resistance in polymer formulations.

Mining & Metallurgy
Extracts precious metals via carboxylation reactions. MCAA aids in ore flotation and refining processes for copper, zinc, and gold.

Pulp & Paper
Enhances paper strength and brightness through cellulose modification. MCAA-derived CMC acts as a binder in recycled paper production.

Packaging Types

25 kg HDPE Drums:
Corrosion-resistant containers for solid MCAA flakes/powder, ideal for small-scale industrial use.
200 kg Steel Drums:
UN-certified for liquid MCAA solutions (80%), ensuring safe transport and storage under inert conditions.
1,000 kg FIBCs (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers):
Anti-static liners and moisture barriers for bulk solid MCAA in mining, agrochemical, and CMC production.
ISO Tanks:
Stainless steel tanks for large-volume liquid MCAA transport, compliant with international hazardous material regulations.
Pharmaceutical-Grade Packaging:
Vacuum-sealed, nitrogen-purged containers for high-purity MCAA used in drug synthesis.