Substance profile
Propionyl chloride
Propionyl chloride is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor.
01 · Identification
What Propionyl chloride is
Propionyl chloride is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. Its molecular formula is C3H5ClO and its molecular weight is 92.52 g/mol. It boils at 80 °C, melts at -94 °C, is soluble in water.
Under the GHS it carries the signal word Danger. It is classed as flammable agents - 3rd degree.
02 · GHS classification
Hazards and label elements
Harmonised classification under CLP Annex VI. This is the legally binding classification in the EU; other jurisdictions may differ.
| Code | Hazard statement |
|---|---|
| H225 | Highly flammable liquid and vapour. |
| H314 | Causes severe skin burns and eye damage. |
Supplemental EU statements: EUH014
Precautionary statements: P210, P233, P241, P242, P260, P280, P301, P310, P331, P403
03 · Physical and chemical properties
Propionyl chloride properties
Every value is shown with the conditions it was measured under and the source it came from. Where sources disagree, all values are listed rather than one being picked — the difference is usually a different form of the substance, not an error.
| Property | Value | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling point | 80 °C (176 °F) | HSDB | |
| 80 °C (176 °F) | at 760 mmHg | DOE PAC | |
| Melting point | -94 °C (-137.2 °F) | HSDB | |
| Density | 1.0646 g/cm³ | at 20 °C | HSDB |
| 1.065 g/cm³ | at 25 °C | DOE PAC | |
| Solubility | Soluble in ether | HSDB | |
| Flash point | 12.22 °C (54 °F) | HSDB | |
| Vapor density | 3.2 (air = 1) | HSDB | |
| Corrosivity | Corrosive | HSDB |
Values compiled from PubChem Laboratory Chemical Safety Summary. Temperatures converted to Fahrenheit for reference.
04 · Handling and storage
Storing and handling Propionyl chloride
Storage conditions
Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage. Never allow product to get in contact with water during storage. Reacts violently with water. Storage class (TRGS 510): Flammable liquids
Source: Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
Incompatible materials
Exothermic reaction with diisopropyl ether produces much gas. The reaction may be dangerous if confined.
Source: Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
Reactivity
Acid halides, such as PROPIONYL CHLORIDE, are water reactive; some are violently reactive. They are incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, alcohols, amines, and alkali. May react vigorously or explosively if mixed with diisopropyl ether or other ethers in the presence of trace amounts of metal salts [J. Haz. Mat., 1981, 4, 291].
Source: CAMEO Chemicals
Planning storage for a mix of chemicals? Check Propionyl chloride in the storage compatibility matrix →