Dichloroacetic acid
Agent Name
Dichloroacetic acid
CAS Number
79-43-6
Formula
C2-H2-Cl2-O2
Major Category
Other Classes
Synonyms
Bichloracetic acid; DCA (acid); Dichloracetic acid; Dichlorethanoic acid; Dichloroethanoic acid; Kyselina dichloroctova [Czech]; Urner's liquid; [ChemIDplus] UN1764
Category
Organic Acids
Description
Colorless liquid with a pungent odor; [ACGIH]
Sources/Uses
Used as an intermediate to make other chemicals, a test reagent for fiber analysis, a disinfectant, and a medication; [CHEMINFO]
Comments
"Critical Effects" include upper respiratory tract; CNS; male reproductive effects; developmental toxicity; and cancer. [ACGIH] Corrosive to eyes, skin, and respiratory tract; Inhalation of high concentrations can cause pulmonary edema; [CHEMINFO]
Biomedical References
Exposure Assessment
Skin Designation (ACGIH)
Yes
TLV (ACGIH)
0.5 ppm
MAK
0.2 ppm
Vapor Pressure
0.179 mm Hg
Odor Threshold Low
0.04 ppm
Explanatory Notes
Recognition odor threshold from CHEMINFO; Melting Point = 45 deg F; [CAMEO] VP from ChemIDplus;
Adverse Effects
Toxic Pneumonitis
Yes
Reproductive Toxin
Yes
Dermatotoxin
Skin burns
IARC Carcinogen
Possible (2b)
NTP Carcinogen
Anticipated human carcinogen
ACGIH Carcinogen
Confirmed Animal
Diseases, Processes, and Activities Linked to This Agent
Processes
Industrial Processes with risk of exposure: