1-(2-Chloroethyl)aziridine (CAS 694-03-1): Properties, Uses, and Handling Guide

 1-(2-Chloroethyl)aziridine (CAS 694-03-1): Properties, Uses, and Handling Guide

1-(2-Chloroethyl)aziridine, also known as N-2-Chloroethylaziridine, is a specialized organic compound used primarily in chemical R&D and synthesis applications. With the CAS number 694-03-1, this molecule features both an aziridine ring and a chloroethyl side chain, making it a reactive intermediate in synthetic chemistry. 


Chemical Identity & Key Properties

  • Chemical Name: 1-(2-Chloroethyl)aziridine 

  • Synonyms: N-2-Chloroethylaziridine; Aziridine, 1-(2-chloroethyl)- 

  • CAS Number: 694-03-1 Molecular Formula: C₄H₈ClN 

  • Molecular Weight: 105.57 g/mol 

  • Density: ~1.13 g/cm³ 

  • Boiling Point: ~130 °C at 760 mmHg 

  • Flash Point: ~32.5 °C 

These physical and chemical characteristics make it useful as a reactive intermediate in organic synthesis, especially where ring strain and substitution reactions are exploited. 


What Is an Aziridine Ring?

Aziridines are small, three-membered cyclic compounds containing one nitrogen atom and two carbon atoms. The intense ring strain in this structure makes them highly reactive — an attribute that chemists often utilize in synthesis. The strained aziridine ring is susceptible to ring-opening reactions, allowing functionalisation in specific pathways for complex molecule construction. 




Applications and Uses

Research & Chemical Synthesis

1-(2-Chloroethyl)aziridine is not a bulk industrial chemical but rather a specialty reagent used for:

  • Organic synthesis intermediates

  • Method development in pharmaceuticals

  • Preparation of derivatives or substituted amines

While specific application data is often proprietary, compounds of this type are usually explored in medicinal chemistry research and in the synthesis of more complex molecules. 


Handling, Storage & Safety Considerations

Because of its reactive aziridine ring and alkyl chloride group, 1-(2-Chloroethyl)aziridine should be treated with heightened caution:

  • Storage: Typically stored at 2–8 °C in a refrigerator to maintain stability. 

  • Handling: Requires proper PPE (gloves, goggles, lab coat) and work in a fume hood.

  • Hazards: While specific toxicity data for this precise compound is limited, related aziridine compounds are known to be reactive and potentially harmful upon skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion. Their ring strain and alkylating potential can pose risks similar to other nitrogen heterocycles. 

Given this profile, always consult MSDS/SDS documentation and regulatory guidance before use.


Why It Matters in Pharma & Chemical Industries

Though not an Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) itself, 1-(2-Chloroethyl)aziridine serves as an important building block in organic chemistry. Its reactive nature allows chemists to construct more complex molecules used in:

  • Pharma R&D

  • Specialty chemical production

  • Fine chemical intermediates

Demand for such intermediates continues as innovators seek new synthetic routes and methods for next-generation compounds.

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