Axit trichloroacetic: Tính chất, ứng dụng và an toàn

Trichloroacetic acid, with its unique molecular structure and powerful properties, has established its position in many different fields, from medicine to the chemical industry. The presence of three chlorine atoms within this acid structure not only increases its acidity but also opens up an incredible range of application possibilities. Understanding the structural characteristics and properties of trichloroacetic acid will help users take full advantage of the benefits it brings, while also being aware of the potential risks.

Chemical formula and molecular structure of trichloroacetic acid

Trichloroacetic acid has the chemical formula CCl₃COOH.

C: Carbon

Cl: Chlorine

O: Oxygen

Q: Hydrogen

The molecular structure has the following characteristics:

Main structure: Trichloroacetic acid is a derivative of acetic acid (CH₃COOH), in which the three hydrogen atoms on the methyl group (CH₃) have been replaced by three chlorine atoms (Cl).

Polarity: The presence of three chlorine atoms, which are highly electronegative, causes the molecule to become very polar. This increases the acidity of the compound and its ability to form hydrogen bonds.

Shape: The molecule has a tetrahedral shape, with a central carbon atom bonded to an oxygen atom by a double bond, a hydroxyl group (-OH), and three chlorine atoms.

Characteristic properties brought about by structure

Strong acidity: The presence of three strongly electron-attracting chlorine atoms increases the polarity of the OH bond, making the proton (H+) more easily separated, so trichloroacetic acid is a stronger acid than acetic acid.

High reactivity: Due to its strong polarity and the presence of chlorine atoms, trichloroacetic acid has the ability to participate in many different chemical reactions.

Corrosiveness: This acid is highly corrosive and can cause damage to skin and mucous membranes if directly exposed.

Physical and chemical properties of trichloroacetic acid

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is an organic compound with the chemical formula CCl₃COOH. It is a derivative of acetic acid in which the three hydrogen atoms on the methyl group (CH₃) have been replaced by three chlorine atoms (Cl). This substitution gives TCA its unique properties and applications.

Physical properties

Trichloroacetic acid has many characteristic physical properties

Status: Under normal conditions, TCA is a colorless crystalline solid.

Hygroscopic ability: TCA easily absorbs moisture from the air, forming a syrup.

Solubility: Well soluble in water and many organic solvents.

Melting point: About 54-58°C.

Boiling point: About 196°C.

Density: 1.63 g/cm³.

Chemical properties

Trichloroacetic acid has characteristic chemical properties

Strong acidity: Due to the presence of three strongly electron-attracting chlorine atoms, TCA is a stronger acid than acetic acid. Protons (H+) in the carboxyl group are easily separated, forming H+ ions.

Corrosion: TCA is highly corrosive, can cause damage to skin, mucous membranes and metal corrosion.

High reactivity: Due to its strong polarity and presence of chlorine atoms, TCA has the ability to participate in many different chemical reactions, such as substitution reactions and reduction reactions.

Ability to form complexes: TCA can form complexes with many types of organic and inorganic compounds.

Application of trichloroacetic acid

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a chemical compound with high applications in many fields, especially in medicine and industry. Below are some outstanding applications of TCA:

In Medicine

Application of trichloroacetic acid

Treatment of skin diseases:

Warts and warts: TCA has the ability to coagulate proteins, destroying cells of warts and warts.

Pitted scars: TCA is used in chemical peels to treat pitted scars, helping to fill and flatten the skin surface.

Freckles and melasma: TCA can fade dark spots and melasma by removing the keratin cell layer.

Papillomas, genital warts: TCA is used to remove these lesions.

Sterilize medical instruments: Due to its strong antiseptic properties, TCA is used to sterilize small medical instruments.

In Industry

Chemical production: TCA is a raw material for the production of many other chemicals such as dyes and pesticides.

Detergents: Due to their corrosive nature, TCA is used in some industrial cleaning products.

Synthetic intermediate: TCA is an intermediate in the synthesis of many other organic compounds.

Other applications

Preserving biological samples: TCA is used to preserve biological samples such as cells and tissues.

Scientific research: TCA is used in molecular biology and biochemical research.

Harmful effects of Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a powerful chemical that has many medical and industrial applications. However, improper use of TCA or direct contact with this chemical can cause many serious health effects.

Harmful effects of Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) when used incorrectly

Harmful effects upon direct contact

Skin burns: TCA is highly corrosive. When in direct contact with the skin, it will cause burns, ulcers, and even scars.

Respiratory tract irritation: TCA vapor can irritate the respiratory tract, causing coughing, difficulty breathing, and even pulmonary edema.

Eye damage: Exposure to TCA can cause corneal burns, decreased vision, and even blindness.

Gastrointestinal: If swallowed, TCA can cause burns to the digestive tract and damage to internal organs.

Harmful effects when used incorrectly in skin treatment

Skin damage: If TCA is used at a concentration that is too high or the exposure time is too long, it can cause skin burns, excessive peeling, and scarring.

Infection: If sterility is not guaranteed during treatment, it can cause skin infection.

Changes in skin pigmentation: After treatment with TCA, the skin may darken, melasma or lose pigmentation.

Increased sensitivity to sunlight: Skin after TCA treatment is often more sensitive to sunlight, prone to sunburn.

Environmental harm

Environmental pollution: TCA when released into the environment can pollute water, soil and air.

Effects on living organisms: TCA can be toxic to organisms in the environment.

Note when using trichloroacetic acid

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a powerful chemical with many medical and industrial applications, especially in the field of skin aesthetics. However, using TCA requires extreme caution because it can cause many harmful effects if not used properly.

Why should we be careful when using TCA?

Highly corrosive: TCA has the ability to damage skin and mucous membranes if in direct contact.

Irritation: TCA vapor can cause irritation to the respiratory tract and eyes.

Risk of burns: If used at incorrect concentration or time, it can cause skin burns.

Changes in skin pigmentation: After treatment with TCA, the skin may darken, melasma or lose pigmentation.

Increased sensitivity to sunlight: Skin after TCA treatment is often more sensitive to sunlight, prone to sunburn.

Important notes when using TCA

Use only as prescribed by your doctor: Do not arbitrarily buy and use TCA at home.

Performed at reputable medical facilities: Ensure the treatment process is performed by qualified doctors and adequate facilities.

Follow your doctor’s instructions: Follow your doctor’s instructions exactly on dosage, treatment time and how to care for your skin after treatment.

Skin protection: After treatment, it is necessary to protect the skin from sunlight by using sunscreen with a high SPF index.

Notify your doctor about side effects: If any unusual signs appear, notify your doctor immediately.

Who should not use TCA?

Pregnant and lactating women:

People with sensitive skin, easily irritated.

People who are using other medications, especially medications that increase skin sensitivity to sunlight.

People with a history of allergy to ingredients of products containing TCA.

Side effects may occur when using TCA

Redness, burning, swelling: These are common reactions after TCA treatment.

Changes in skin color: Skin may become dark, melasma or lose pigmentation.

Skin damage: In some cases, skin burns, excessive peeling, and scarring may occur.

Infection: If sterility is not guaranteed during treatment, it can cause skin infection.

Instructions for performing and safely storing TCA

To ensure safe use and storage of trichloroacetic acid (TCA), certain guidelines should be followed. Implementing safety measures not only helps protect human health but also aids in storing chemicals in optimal conditions.

Instructions for performing and safely storing TCA

Instructions for implementation

Preparation before use: Don’t forget to stop using products containing retinoids at least 2 weeks before treatment to avoid skin irritation.

Skin test: Apply a test on a small area of ​​skin to check for a reaction before proceeding with the entire procedure.

Performing the treatment: Note that the TCA application process needs to be careful, with a contact time of 2-5 minutes, depending on the chemical concentration.

Post-treatment care: Avoid direct sunlight for at least 2 weeks and use sunscreen to protect your skin from harm.

Safe storage

Storage conditions: Store TCA in a cool, dry and ventilated place.

Store in sealed packaging: Make sure to use sealed packaging and store out of reach of children.

Be careful when transporting: During transportation, be sure to keep the container upright and avoid strong impacts.

Following proper handling and storage instructions will help ensure maximum safety when using trichloroacetic acid in skin care treatments or in chemical research.

Through the article that dongachem.vn just shared above, we can see that trichloroacetic acid is not only a powerful chemical compound with many diverse applications in medicine and industry, but also requires caution and understanding from people. use. From structural characteristics to physical and chemical properties, trichloroacetic acid has established its position in many fields. This diversity not only represents the development of science but is also an indispensable part in the journey of finding the best solutions for human health.