BENZYL IODIDE

Chemical Properties

Colorless crystals or liquid. Soluble in alcohol, carbon disulfide, ether; insoluble in water.

Uses

(Iodomethyl)benzene can be used as sensory irritants.

Uses

A tear gas.

Synthesis Reference(s)

The Journal of Organic Chemistry, 48, p. 3667, 1983 DOI: 10.1021/jo00169a010
Tetrahedron Letters, 36, p. 609, 1995 DOI: 10.1016/0040-4039(94)02315-3
Synthesis, p. 853, 1980 DOI: 10.1055/s-1980-29239

General Description

Low-melting crystals or a colorless liquid. Melting point 34.1°C. Insoluble in water and denser (1.74 g / cm3) than water. Hence sinks in water. Toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption. Very irritating to skin and eyes.

Air & Water Reactions

Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

Look at benzyl chloride, benzyl bromide.

Hazard

Powerful irritant.

Health Hazard

TOXIC; inhalation, ingestion or contact (skin, eyes) with vapors, dusts or substance may cause severe injury, burns or death. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Reaction with water or moist air will release toxic, corrosive or flammable gases. Reaction with water may generate much heat that will increase the concentration of fumes in the air. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution.

Fire Hazard

Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. Substance will react with water (some violently) releasing flammable, toxic or corrosive gases and runoff. When heated, vapors may form explosive mixtures with air: indoors, outdoors and sewers explosion hazards. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas. Containers may explode when heated or if contaminated with water.

Raw materials

Preparation Products