CAS Number: 79-11-8. A very corrosive, water soluble,
crystalline solid with a penetrating, vinegar-like odor. It is used
in the manufacture of cellulose ethers, and as a post-emergence
contact herbicide and defoliant. Chemical formula = C2H3ClO2.
Molecular weight = 94.5 g/mol.
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Exposure to chloroacetic acid is most likely to occur in the
workplace. Acute (short-term) inhalation or dermal exposure may
irritate or cause severe damage to the skin, eyes, respiratory
tract, and mucous membranes and cause depression of the central
nervous system in humans. No information is available on the
chronic (long-term) effects of chloroacetic acid in humans.
Damage to the respiratory tract has been observed in rodents
chronically exposed to chloroacetic acid by inhalation, orally,
and via gavage (experimentally placing the chemical in the
stomach). EPA has not classified chloroacetic acid for potential
carcinogenicity.