Benzyl chloride is a colorless to slightly yellow, strongly irritating liquid with a sharp odor. It is primarily used as a reactive intermediate in organic synthesis. It hydrolyzes rapidly in water, producing hydrochloric acid and benzyl alcohol.
Pharmaceuticals: Used in synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients like benzylpenicillin; Agrochemicals: Intermediate in herbicides and pesticides production; Perfumes & Flavors: For synthesis of benzyl esters and alcohols; Polymer Industry: For quaternary ammonium compounds and plasticizers.
