2,2,2-Trichloro-1-phenylethyl acetate

Chemical Properties

white powder

Chemical Properties

2,2,2-Trichloro-1-phenylethyl acetate forms white crystals (mp 88 °C) and has a weak, very natural, lasting rose odor.
The ester is prepared from ??-trichloromethylbenzyl alcohol, for example, by reaction with acetic anhydride. The alcohol can be prepared by one of the following methods:
1) Addition of trichloroacetaldehyde (chloral) to benzene in the presence of aluminum chloride.
2) Reaction of benzaldehyde with chloroform in the presence of potassium hydroxide.
??-Trichloromethylbenzyl acetate is a stable rose fragrancewith excellent fixative properties. It is preferentially used in soaps, powders, and bath salts.

Occurrence

Has apparently not been reported to occur in nature.

Uses

Perfumes, fixative for essential oils and perfumes.

Definition

ChEBI: Alpha-Trichloromethylbenzyl acetate is a carboxylic ester. It is functionally related to a benzyl alcohol.

Preparation

By the reaction of benzene and chloral, in the presence of a catalyst, followed by acetylation.

Flammability and Explosibility

Non flammable

Trade name

Rosalin (Yinghai)

Safety Profile

Mildly toxic by ingestion. A skinirritant. When heated to decomposition it emits toxicfumes of Clí.