Trichloromethyl chloroformate
Trichloromethyl chloroformate (CAS: 503-38-8), with the linear formula ClCOOCCl3 and a molecular weight of 197.83 g/mol, is a chemical reagent employed in various synthetic pathways. It serves as a key reactant in the preparation of diverse organic compounds, including cyclic carbamimidates, carbamates with biological activity, and prodrugs for anticancer applications. Its utility extends to the synthesis of potential antiviral agents and antibody-drug conjugates.
- IUPAC
- Diphosgene,di-Phosgene

Preparation of Cyclic Carbamimidates
Trichloromethyl chloroformate acts as a reactant in the synthesis of cyclic carbamimidates. This transformation can be catalysed by monophosphine gold(I) complexes, enabling efficient formation of these heterocyclic structures.
Synthesis of Carbamates
It is utilized in the preparation of N-alkenyl and cycloalkyl carbamates. These compounds have been investigated for their dual activity as histamine H3 and H4 receptor ligands, suggesting potential pharmacological applications.
Development of Anticancer Prodrugs
The compound is a reactant in the creation of prostate-specific membrane antigen-targeted anticancer prodrugs. This application highlights its role in medicinal chemistry and targeted drug delivery systems.
Antiviral Research
Trichloromethyl chloroformate is employed in synthetic routes towards potential West Nile virus protease inhibitors, contributing to the research and development of antiviral therapies.
Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs)
This reagent finds application in the synthesis of components for antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), which are advanced therapeutic agents used in cancer treatment.
| Molecular weight | 197.83 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | ClCOOCCl3 |
| Assay | ≥97.0% (GC) |
| Boiling point | 20 °C/10 mmHg(lit.) |
| Density | 1.639 g/mL at 20 °C |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.458 |
| Storage temperature | 2-8°C |
| Application | Reactant for preparation of:• Cyclic carbamimidates using a monophosphine gold(i) catalyst1• N-Alkenyl and cycloalkyl carbamates as dual acting histamine H3 and H4 receptor ligands2• Prostate-specific membrane antigen-targeted anticancer prodrugs3• Potential west nile virus protease inhibitors4• Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs)5• Erythromycin A derivatives6 |


Hazard statements
- H300Fatal if swallowed
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- H330Fatal if inhaled
Precautionary statements
- P260Do not breathe dust, fume, gas, mist, vapours or spray
- P264Wash thoroughly after handling
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P284Wear respiratory protection
- P301IF SWALLOWED
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, Goggles, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 3277 6.1/PG 2 |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T+ |
| Risk statements (R) | 26/28-34 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-28-36/37/39-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Trichloromethyl chloroformate used for?
+
Trichloromethyl chloroformate is used as a reactant in organic synthesis for preparing compounds such as cyclic carbamimidates, N-alkenyl and cycloalkyl carbamates, anticancer prodrugs, potential West Nile virus protease inhibitors, antibody-drug conjugates, and erythromycin A derivatives.
What are the CAS number and formula for Trichloromethyl chloroformate?
+
The CAS number is 503-38-8 and the linear formula is ClCOOCCl3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Trichloromethyl chloroformate with an assay of ≥97.0% (GC). We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Trichloromethyl chloroformate be handled safely?
+
Trichloromethyl chloroformate is a dangerous substance. Handle with extreme caution, using full personal protective equipment including a faceshield, goggles, gloves, and an appropriate respirator. It is highly toxic if swallowed or inhaled and causes severe skin burns and eye damage. Ensure adequate ventilation and work in a designated hazardous material area.
How is Trichloromethyl chloroformate typically shipped or exported?
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Trichloromethyl chloroformate is classified under UN 3277, 6.1/PG 2, indicating it is a toxic liquid, organic, n.o.s. Shipments adhere to strict international regulations for hazardous materials.
How can I request a quote or sample of Trichloromethyl chloroformate?
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To request a quote or sample, please contact our sales department through the website or by phone, providing your contact details and the quantity required.
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