Ethyl chloroformate
# Ethyl chloroformate

Ethyl chloroformate is an organic compound with the chemical formula $ClCO_2CH_2CH_3.$ It is the ethyl ester of chloroformic acid. It is a colorless, corrosive and highly toxic liquid. It is a reagent used in organic synthesis for the introduction of the ethyl carbamate protecting group and for the formation of carboxylic anhydrides.

## Preparation

Ethyl chloroformate can be prepared using ethanol and phosgene:

## Safety

Ethyl chloroformate is a highly toxic, flammable, corrosive substance. It causes severe burns when comes in contact with eyes and/or skin, can be harmful if swallowed or inhaled.

