Fluoroacetic Acid (CAS 144-49-0): Properties, Uses, and Safety Information

Fluoroacetic acid is a colorless crystalline solid that is highly toxic. It is soluble in water and alcohol. The compound is used as a rodenticide and in the manufacture of other chemicals. It is classified as a haloacetic acid, where one of the methyl hydrogens in acetic acid is substituted by fluorine.

Safety Information: - Hazard Codes: T , N - Risk Statements: 20/21/22-35-50-28 - Safety Statements: 26-36/37/39-45-61-22-20 - RIDADR: 2642 - Hazard Class: 6.1(a) - Packing Group: I - Toxicity: LD50 oral in rat: 4680μg/kg

Frequently Asked Questions about Fluoroacetic Acid

Q: What are the main uses of fluoroacetic acid?

A: Fluoroacetic acid is primarily used as a rodenticide to kill rats and mice. It is also used in the manufacture of other chemicals.

Q: How toxic is fluoroacetic acid?

A: Fluoroacetic acid is highly toxic. It has a median lethal dose (LD50) of 10 mg/kg in humans. It can disrupt the Krebs cycle and is particularly dangerous because its metabolite, fluorocitric acid, inhibits the enzyme aconitase, stopping the cycle from functioning.

Q: Is fluoroacetic acid found naturally?

A: While fluoroacetic acid itself is not found naturally, its conjugate base, fluoroacetate, occurs naturally in at least 40 plants in Australia, Brazil, and Africa. It is one of only five known organofluorine-containing natural products.

Q: How should fluoroacetic acid be stored?

A: Fluoroacetic acid should be stored in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area. It should be kept away from oxidizers and stored in a secure poison location.