Ethyl chloroformate


Ethyl chloroformate is an organic compound with the chemical formula. It is the ethyl ester of chloroformic acid. It is a colorless, corrosive and highly toxic liquid. It is a reagent used in organic synthesis for the introduction of the ethyl carbamate protecting group and for the formation of carboxylic anhydrides.

Preparation

Ethyl chloroformate can be prepared using ethanol and phosgene:

Safety

Ethyl chloroformate is a highly toxic, flammable, corrosive substance. It causes severe burns when comes in contact with eyes and/or skin, can be harmful if swallowed or inhaled.