Sodium chloroacetate is a versatile chemical compound with various applications across different industries due to its reactive chloro and carboxylate groups. Below are some of its primary applications:

1. Chemical Intermediate

Sodium chloroacetate, also known as Sodium monochloroacetate, is widely used as a building block in organic synthesis. Its reactive nature makes it a precursor for numerous compounds:

• Carboxymethylation Reactions: Used to introduce carboxymethyl groups into compounds, forming carboxymethyl derivatives such as carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), an important thickening agent.

• Herbicides and Pesticides: Involved in the synthesis of herbicides like glyphosate and other agrochemicals.

• Pharmaceuticals: Serves as an intermediate in the production of drugs like caffeine, vitamins, and barbiturates.

2. Textile Industry

Sodium chloroacetate is used in the production of carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), which finds applications as a textile finishing agent, improving texture and durability.

3. Personal Care Products

Used in the formulation of carboxymethyl derivatives that act as thickeners and stabilizers in cosmetics, shampoos, and lotions.

4. Water Treatment

Carboxymethylcellulose derived from sodium chloroacetate is used as a dispersant and stabilizer in water treatment processes, preventing scale formation and ensuring efficient operation.

5. Paints, Adhesives, and Coatings

CMC derived from sodium chloroacetate is employed as a rheology modifier, stabilizing and thickening paints, adhesives, and coating formulations.