INTRODUCTION
2,4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol (DCBA) is a member of the class of Benzyl alcohols in which the hydrogens at positions 2 and 4 are replaced by chlorines. Its effectiveness against a broad spectrum of pathogens makes it a valuable ingredient in antiseptic products.
Manufacture
Produced through a two-stage reaction, the first stage involves reacting 2,4-dichlorobenzyl chloride with a water-soluble salt of an organic acid in the presence of a phase transfer catalyst to form the 2,4-dichlorobenzyl ester of the organic acid. The second stage involves hydrolysing this ester with a strong base to yield 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol (DCBA)
| Synonyms | 2,4-Dichlorophenyl)methanol; 2,4-Dichlorobenzenemethanol |
| CAS no. | 1777-82-8 |
| EINECS no. | 217-210-5 |
| Molecular formula | C7H6Cl2O |
| Molecular weight | 177.03 |
| Structure | ![]() |
Applications
DCBA is a compound with notable biological activity, particularly in the field of antimicrobial and antiviral applications. It is often combined with other agents, such as Amylmetacresol (AMC), to enhance its antimicrobial efficacy.
Medicinal Applications
| DCBA has been incorporated into formulations such as throat lozenges and sprays, where it acts as a virucidal agent against respiratory viruses. DCBA significantly reduces throat soreness and provide pain relief. |
| Due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial & antifungal activity it is used in several topical and cosmetic preparations. |
| DCBA is used in vaginal and rectal formulations specifically acting as virucidal in HIV and SARS-CoV infections. |
Chemical Reactions
| DCBA undergoes various chemical reactions such as oxidation, reduction and substitution to facilitate production of compounds such as; |
| – Dichlorobenzaldehyde |
| – Dichlorotoluene |
| – Various substituted benzyl alcohols depending on the nucleophile used. |
SPECIFICATIONS
| Test | Unit | Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Description | – | White or almost white crystalline powder |
| Solubility | – | Very slightly soluble in water, very soluble in ethanol (96%) |
| Identification (By IR) | – | The IR spectrum of the sample should be concordant with the standard spectrum of 2,4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol |
| Melting Point | °C | About 59.0 |
| Water Content | % | NMT 0.2 |
| Sulphated Ash | % | NMT 0.1 |
| Related Substance (HPLC) | ||
| Impurity A | % | NMT 0.10 |
| Impurity B | % | NMT 0.10 |
| Impurity C | % | NMT 0.10 |
| Impurity D | % | NMT 0.10 |
| Impurity E | % | NMT 0.10 |
| Impurity F | % | NMT 0.10 |
| Impurity G | % | NMT 0.10 |
| Unspecified maximum Impurity | % | NMT 0.10 |
| Total Impurity | % | NMT 0.30 |
| Assay (By HPLC) (on anhydrous basis) | % | 98.0 – 102.0 |
| Additional Test | ||
| Impurity (By HPLC) 2,4Dichlorotoluene | % | NMT 0.10 |
| Residual Solvent Cyclohexane | ppm | NMT 3000 ppm |
| Diethylene Glycol | ppm | NMT 1000 ppm |
STORAGE & PRECAUTION
Store in cool, dry place out of direct sunlight in tightly sealed containers.
PACKING
25 Kg HDPE Drums
REGISTRATION / CERTIFICATION
c-GMP
REACH Status
Not registered
ExSyn offers 2,4 Dichlorobenzyl alcohol on commercial scales and welcomes enquiries. No matter the quantity you need, our exceptional quality and service will make ExSyn your supplier of choice! If you need any additional information or SDS, please contact us.
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