How would someone make dichloroacetate?

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In summary, to make dichloroacetate, one can use the chlorination of acetic or chloroacetic acid, hydrolysis of pentachloroethane, electrolytic reduction of trichloroacetic acid, or the action of alkali cyanides on chloral hydrate. However, caution should be taken as the reaction can be dangerous if not done properly. It is recommended to perform the reaction under a hood and with proper safety gear.
  • #1
cj2222
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How would someone make dichloroacetate?

I am not planning on using it to treat any humans with cancer, just wondering.
 
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  • #2


See the OrgSyn page. The reaction looks gross: chloral hydrate + sodium cyanide...
http://www.orgsynth.org/orgsyn/orgsyn/prepcontent.asp?print=1&showprint=1&prep=cv2p0181

Also see the "Discussion" section on that page:
Dichloroacetic acid has been prepared by the chlorination of acetic1 or chloroacetic2 acid, by hydrolysis of pentachloroethane,3 from trichloroacetic acid by electrolytic reduction4 or the action of copper,5 and by the action of alkali cyanides on chloral hydrate.6

Chlorination of acetic acid seems like the most direct and the cheapest way in terms of industrial-scale manufacture.
 
  • #3


Wow, I wouldn't touch that process if you paid me without a good reason; curiosity wouldn't be enough. If that thing foams too much, or you forget to keep the evolved hydrogen cyanide down, you'll be dead before anyone could help you. Whatever you do or don't do, curiosity or not, for the love of god do it under a hood and with the PROPER gear.
 

1. How is dichloroacetate made in a laboratory?

Dichloroacetate can be made in a laboratory by reacting sodium dichloroacetate with a strong acid, such as hydrochloric acid. This reaction will produce dichloroacetic acid, which can then be converted into the desired dichloroacetate compound.

2. What are the necessary materials for making dichloroacetate?

The necessary materials for making dichloroacetate include sodium dichloroacetate, a strong acid (such as hydrochloric acid), and a solvent (such as water or ethanol). You will also need appropriate lab equipment, such as beakers and a heating source.

3. Can dichloroacetate be made at home?

It is not recommended to try to make dichloroacetate at home. The process involves potentially dangerous chemicals and requires proper handling and equipment. It is best to leave this process to trained professionals in a laboratory setting.

4. What are the uses of dichloroacetate?

Dichloroacetate has several uses in the medical and scientific fields. It has been studied as a potential treatment for certain types of cancer, as well as for metabolic and neurological disorders. It is also used in some industrial processes as a solvent or chemical intermediate.

5. Are there any safety precautions to be aware of when making dichloroacetate?

Yes, there are several safety precautions that should be followed when making dichloroacetate. The chemicals involved can be hazardous if not handled properly, so it is important to wear appropriate protective gear, work in a well-ventilated area, and follow all safety protocols. It is also important to properly dispose of any waste materials after the process is complete.

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