Iodal

Iodal, or triiodoacetaldehyde, is a halogenated derivative of acetaldehyde with the chemical formula I3CCHO, it is analogous to chloral and bromal. It is described as a pale yellow liquid with a pungent odour by Leopold Gmelin. It is decomposed to iodoform by potash. Iodal was discovered and named in 1837.

Iodal is synthesised from ethanol and iodine with concentrated nitric acid as the catalyst. Its hydrate was described as water-soluble, white silky crystals. Like most iodine compounds, Iodal is unstable under sunlight and gives off iodine over time.