Chloromethyl(Methyl)Dimethoxysilane stands out as a specialized organosilicon compound, drawing the attention of chemists and industry professionals for its distinctive reactivity and adaptability. The compound appears under various names in technical literature, yet its molecular identity is straightforward: it’s represented by the formula C5H13ClO2Si and carries the HS Code 2931900090, marking its position in global trade for organic chemical raw materials. Used in both research settings and large-scale manufacturing, Chloromethyl(Methyl)Dimethoxysilane meets a growing demand for reactive silicon-based intermediates.
This compound arrives most commonly as a clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid. With a molecular weight sitting at 168.70 g/mol and a density of roughly 1.10 g/cm³ at room temperature, it flows smoothly and maintains a viscosity that doesn’t hinder transfer through standard chemical equipment. One whiff delivers a pungent, somewhat sweet odor that lingers, revealing its volatility and alerting handlers to use caution. Chloromethyl(Methyl)Dimethoxysilane remains stable under dry, cool conditions but reacts with water, yielding methanol and hydrochloric acid — two substances not to be underestimated in the lab or the plant. Its melting point drops below -70°C, while the boiling point reaches about 102°C, keeping it liquid under typical warehouse or laboratory storage conditions.
Chloromethyl(Methyl)Dimethoxysilane generally ships in sealed glass or specialized chemical containers, mostly as a pure liquid or concentrated solution for custom use. While some silane compounds are marketed as powders, pearls, flakes, or crystalline solids, this specific molecule resists solidification and arrives almost exclusively as a liquid. That fluidity allows easy dosing but brings risks if containment ever fails. Manufacturers provide detailed Certificates of Analysis, laying out chemical purity (often better than 97%), water and acid content, refractive index (around 1.402 to 1.407), and exact density values at prescribed temperatures. Bulk shipments require careful handling to prevent contamination and unwanted chemical reactions with atmospheric moisture.
Examining its structure, Chloromethyl(Methyl)Dimethoxysilane features a silicon atom at the center bonded to one methyl group (–CH3), one chloromethyl group (–CH2Cl), and two methoxy groups (–OCH3). This arrangement provides two reactive site options: the silicon-chloromethyl linkage for further substitution and the two methoxy groups, which hydrolyze to introduce silanol functionality. In synthetic chemistry, this dual-reactivity supports crosslinking and surface modification, opening up a world of polymer, resin, and coating applications. My own experience with organosilicon molecules taught me that substituent patterns on the silicon atom can shift chemical behavior dramatically; this compound’s mixture of hydrophobic and reactive sites lets it bond to both organic and inorganic materials.
Chemically, Chloromethyl(Methyl)Dimethoxysilane acts as a key raw material in many advanced material syntheses. The measured density, centered near 1.10 g/cm³, makes it a manageable, medium-volatility product. Because of its liquid state under ordinary conditions, it resists dust formation, lessening risks of airborne exposure. The compound does not typically form flakes, pearls, or crystals; those are features of different silane families. Still, the presence of a chloromethyl group signals both a potent site for functionalization and a point of caution for hazardous exposure. Health and safety data warn that it burns mucous membranes, skin, and eyes if not handled with gloves, goggles, and fume hoods. Vapor inhalation can send respiratory irritation or worse, so air handling systems must keep concentrations well below occupational exposure limits.
Raw material purity and safe transport mark the boundary between a productive synthesis run and a hazardous spill. Chloromethyl(Methyl)Dimethoxysilane reacts with water rapidly; even humidity can set off hydrolysis, which releases methanol and corrosive hydrochloric acid gas. Storage should always use tightly closed, moisture-free containers made from glass or corrosion-proof materials. Dedicated chemical gloves and splash-rated eye protection become standard gear for anyone measuring or transferring this liquid. Facilities should anchor a safety shower and eyewash station nearby; nothing stops a chemical burn faster than prompt, generous rinsing. My advice to new laboratory staff: never underestimate the volatility of organosilicon chemicals. A single spill can fog a fume hood or corrode metal tools. Detailed chemical hygiene routines — wearing lab coats, diligent glove changes, and strict labeling — keep people and property intact.
Chloromethyl(Methyl)Dimethoxysilane serves as a modified silane precursor for specialty polymers and functionalized surfaces. It bonds with glass, metal oxides, and organic backbones, creating hybrid materials used in protective coatings, adhesives, and electronic device encapsulation. In my years supporting product development, compounds in this class offered unmatched versatility — but only when handled with clear-eyed respect for toxicity. Process designers can limit batch sizes, automate transfer steps, and integrate real-time air monitoring to cut accidental exposure; at-scale users fit rooms with both dry air and negative pressure systems. Engineering controls make the difference between smooth operations and unexpected downtime. Quick neutralization protocols for hydrolysis byproducts, smart personal protective equipment, and routine safety audits all guard against incidents. Borrowings these best practices saves health, money, and reputation — lessons learned not just from data sheets but from facing the sharp challenges of hazardous materials, day after day.
