144-49-0

  • English Name: Fluoroacetic Acid
  • CAS Number: 144-49-0
  • Molecular Formula: C₂H₃FO₂
  • Molecular Weight: 78.04 g/mol

Physical Properties

  • Appearance: White crystalline solid.
  • Melting Point: 33°C.
  • Boiling Point: 165°C.
  • Density: 1.3693 g/cm³.
  • Solubility: Soluble in water and ethanol.
  • Odor: Acetic odor.

Chemical Properties

  • Acidity: pKa = 2.6 (at 25°C).
  • Stability: Stable in dry conditions but reacts with strong oxidizing agents.
  • Metabolism: Fluoroacetic acid is metabolized to fluorocitrate, which inhibits the tricarboxylic acid cycle, leading to cellular hypoxia.

Synonyms

  • 2-Fluoroacetic Acid.
  • Monofluoroacetic Acid.
  • Fluoroethanoic Acid.
  • Gifblaar Poison.

Applications

  • Pesticides: Used as a rodenticide (sodium salt) due to its high toxicity.
  • Research: Used in biochemical studies to investigate metabolic pathways.

Safety Information

  • Toxicity: Highly toxic; lethal dose in humans is approximately 5 mg/kg.
  • Risk Phrases:
    • R20/21/22: Very toxic by inhalation, in contact with skin, and if swallowed.
    • R35: Causes severe burns.
    • R50: Very toxic to aquatic organisms.
  • Safety Phrases:
    • S26: In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice.
    • S45: In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately.

Handling and Storage

  • Store in a cool, dry place away from strong oxidizing agents and bases.
  • Wear appropriate protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection when handling.

Environmental Concerns

  • Fluoroacetic acid and its salts are highly toxic to aquatic life and should not be released into the environment.

Production Methods

  • Fluoroacetic acid can be synthesized from chloroacetic acid using potassium fluoride.
  • It can also be obtained by distillation of sodium fluoroacetate with sulfuric acid.

Packing and shipping