N-Propyl chloride

n-Propyl chloride (also 1-propyl chloride or 1-chloropropane) is a colorless, flammable chemical compound. It has the chemical formula C3H7Cl and is prepared by reacting n-propyl alcohol with phosphorus trichloride in the presence of a zinc chloride catalyst.

Properties
1-Chloropropane is the simplest asymmetric chloropropane, analogous to the symmetric 2-chloropropane. Because of the presence of the heavy electronegative chlorine atom, 1-chloropropane has a higher melting point and boiling point than propane (BP 46.6 °C vs -42 °C).

Acute effects
1-Chloropropane has been associated with acute toxic effects in various studies. In a rat study, the LD50 (lethal dose for 50% of the test subjects) for oral ingestion was found to be greater than 2 grams per kilogram of body weight. This suggests a relatively low acute toxicity when ingested by rats.

Non-human toxicity
In laboratory animal studies, exposure to 1-chloropropane has been associated with adverse effects. Rats exposed to high concentrations of 1-chloropropane exhibited alveolar hemorrhage and liver necrosis. Additionally, the compound has been rated for its eye irritant potential in rabbit studies.

Environmental fate and exposure
1-Chloropropane can enter the environment through various waste streams, and it has been detected in volcanic emissions. In the atmosphere, it can undergo degradation through reaction with hydroxyl radicals, with an estimated half-life of about 15 days.

The compound is expected to have high mobility in soil, and volatilization from both moist and dry soil surfaces is anticipated. 1-Chloropropane may resist aerobic biodegradation in soil and water, but anaerobic dehalogenation can occur.

In aquatic environments, 1-chloropropane is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment. It can rapidly volatilize from water surfaces, and its potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is considered low.

Human exposure
Occupational exposure to 1-chloropropane may occur through inhalation and dermal contact in workplaces where the compound is produced or used. Additionally, the general population can be exposed to 1-chloropropane through inhalation of ambient air and dermal contact with vapors and products containing the compound.