4-Chloro-2-fluoroaniline stands out in the world of specialty chemicals thanks to a unique molecular structure and distinct mix of physical and safety properties. Its chemical makeup, C6H5ClFN, brings one chlorine atom and one fluorine atom into the aniline ring. The result shows up as a white to slightly gray crystal or occasionally as a faintly tinted solid, shaped by the interplay between the halogens and the amine group that defines this compound. On the lab bench, it has a molecular weight of about 147.56 g/mol and typically comes as flakes, solid lumps, fine powder, or even in crystalline chunks, offering flexibility across packaging and handling needs. Labeled under the HS Code 29214200, 4-Chloro-2-fluoroaniline connects raw material supply chains across ink, agricultural, and pharmaceutical industries, often forming one of the crucial starting points for more complex syntheses.
You can spot 4-Chloro-2-fluoroaniline by its slightly sharp, sometimes sweetish chemical odor—a classic marker of halogenated anilines—though industrial practices stress working with it under well-ventilated conditions. Its melting point falls between 32 and 34°C, so room temperature can influence its consistency, shifting from a firm crystalline solid in cooler spaces to a slightly sticky mass in warmer rooms. Density clocks in around 1.36 g/cm³, a figure that lines up with both storage requirements and volume calculations in larger synthesis batches. Solubility trends follow the behavior typical of chlorofluoro aromatics: it dissolves better in organic solvents like ethanol, acetone, and ether instead of water. These solvent habits guide safe disposal and cleaning operations in regular labs. In reaction work, the combined effects of the chlorine and fluorine atoms give this compound a profile suited for building more advanced molecules—especially when targeting fine chemicals, dyes, or active pharmaceutical ingredients.
Structurally, the molecule’s backbone is an aromatic ring, with chlorine at position 4 and fluorine at position 2, and an amino group anchoring its reactivity. I’ve come across quite a few similar compounds in process development experiments. Those halogen substitutions boost the compound’s resistance to certain oxidizers and change the way the amine reacts with aromatic substitutions. Chemists prize this for introducing new functionality into benzene backbones, which often leads to better yields in protected reactions and downstream transformations. The electronic effects caused by the position of fluorine and chlorine mean reaction pathways can be dialed in more precisely, and when scaled up, this kind of reliability matters. Typical batches involve careful storage protocols, with attention paid to keeping the product away from light, heat, and incompatible reagents to limit unwanted degradation or hazardous by-products.
Commercial batches usually guarantee minimum purity levels above 98%, often supported by GC or HPLC analysis. Impurity profiles get checked for related haloaniline or nitroaniline analogues. Manufacturers supply this aniline derivative as crystalline flakes, powder, or lump solid—occasionally as small pearls designed for easier handling in automated dispensing lines. Some suppliers offer it in solutions, usually diluted in toluene or acetonitrile, to streamline charging protocols and cut down on dust generation or static risks. Each form brings slight changes in bulk density and flow behavior, two points that users in custom manufacturing outfits always confirm before ordering larger amounts. Container labeling and transport also call for UN-designated hazard codes that reflect its classified status as a toxic and potentially harmful substance, with international movement subject to strict compliance under GHS chemical law and customs declarations.
Working with 4-Chloro-2-fluoroaniline goes hand in hand with strong safety routines. Exposure brings risks—its toxic properties cause harm by skin absorption, inhalation, or accidental ingestion, so full PPE (lab coats, nitrile gloves, goggles) always stays in use. Acute exposure can lead to irritation, headaches, and longer-term health challenges. Years in industry have drilled in the importance of local exhaust ventilation, closed transfer systems, and regular workplace air monitoring. Safe storage avoids high heat, sunlight, and incompatible substances such as strong oxidizing agents and acids, which could set off dangerous decomposition. Users weigh both the chemical’s useful properties and its hazards, with all material safety data sheets (MSDS) reviewed before operations. In the event of spills, prompt containment, absorption with inert material, and careful, labeled waste disposal under hazardous waste guidelines reduces risk to people and air.
From pharmaceutical synthesis to dye intermediates, 4-Chloro-2-fluoroaniline fills an important role in chemical manufacturing supply chains. Research pipelines benefit from its reliable reactivity for coupling reactions and heterocyclic ring constructions—a point I’ve seen proven in pilot and production environments. The underlying challenge rests in getting its benefits without risking exposure or environmental release. Automated handling, dedicated feed lines, point-of-use dispensing, and regular training sessions create a safer workplace. Digital tracking of inventory and real-time monitoring for leaks or spills let companies catch small issues before they grow. Green chemistry projects seek safer alternatives or transformation routes, lowering both waste and risk. Regulatory compliance guides everything from sourcing to waste, and as sustainability gains importance, forward-thinking chemical companies take steps to invest in reusable packaging, solvent recovery, and on-site treatment tech. In the race to innovate, the most responsible solutions often start with deep knowledge about both the science and safety behind materials like 4-Chloro-2-fluoroaniline.
