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)

Synonyms2,4-Dichlorophenyl)methanol;
2,4-Dichlorobenzenemethanol
CAS no.1777-82-8
EINECS no.217-210-5
Molecular formulaC7H6Cl2O
Molecular weight177.03
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

TestUnitSpecifications
DescriptionWhite or almost white crystalline powder
SolubilityVery 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°CAbout 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
ppmNMT 3000 ppm
Diethylene GlycolppmNMT 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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