MonoChloro Acetic Acid, scientifically recognized as monochloro acetic acid, is an organochlorine compound having the structure ClCH2CO2H in a bovine enzyme reaction system. This organic acid is also a valuable building block in biological synthesis. It is also a very fragile substance that easily decomposed if subjected to high temperature or pressure. Its decomposition products, chloropropane and chloroform, are toxic substances when inhaled or ingested. Other compound known as the chloroform derivative of monochloro acetic acid is chloramine.
The demand for MonoChloro Acetic Acid is increasing at a rapid rate in the North America due to its usefulness in the food and beverage industry. Its multifaceted benefits including its shelf-life, antimicrobial and preservative properties, and its ability to withstand light and heat make it a sought-after ingredient in a variety of foods, beverages, confections, and dressings. Chloropropanols (greenhouses gases), which are the main components of MonoChloro Acetic Acid, have distinct advantages over other common preservatives and cleaners. It is said to be the most powerful environmentally friendly cleaning agent available. It is used in cleaning rooms in supermarkets, pharmaceuticals, laboratories, and food processing plants.
MonoChloro Acetic Acid has been in the marketplace since the mid-nineties. Its steady growth in sales and popularity in the home cleaning industry has contributed to its consistent lead position as the bestselling cleaner among consumers. Its global consumption is increasing every year due to its wide range of domestic and international applications. Based on estimates, global consumption will continue to increase until at least 2021.
This cleaning agent is made from chlorine by products, commonly known as chloramines. Chlorine was widely used as an antifungal disinfectant several years ago. Subsequently, research revealed that the compounds present in chlorine can cause cancer. Subsequently, the use of chlorinated water was banned in the United States. However, following its ban, the use of chlorinated water continued in countries across the globe, particularly in Asia and Europe.
Since its discovery, the compound has been improved, making it more effective than chlorine. Additionally, the material has been found to be safe for humans and the environment. It is not known whether the use of chloroform was responsible for the rise of cancer cases that have been observed in industrial workers exposed to chloroform.
Several studies conducted on animals have indicated that MonoChloro Acetic Acid is harmful when swallowed. Studies indicate that it is toxic to the central nervous system and liver when ingested. Ingestion causes vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, and it can also cause damage to the kidneys, gallbladder, and intestines. In pregnant women, the fetus may be deprived of oxygen during birth due to its toxicity to the liver and central nervous system.
MonoChloro Acetic Acids are formed during the distillation process when steam is added to the water. The compound is highly volatile and can be harmful when inhaled. The fumes can aggravate respiratory problems and allergy and cause nausea and headaches. When ingested, it can also cause vomiting and diarrhea. Long-term oral use can cause changes in bone and gum structure and increase the risk of serious side effects such as cancer and nerve damage.
Monochloro can be removed through a process called solubilization. This is done by adding the compound to a carrier solution which can be either de-mineralized or buffered to prevent its release into the environment. Solubilization allows the compound to enter various solvents, which is how it is removed from most municipal water supplies. Chloramine is the primary channel used to remove monochloro. It is effective against the chlorine and trihalomethanes (THMs) found in tap water.