Methyl trichloroacetate is an organochlorine compound with the chemical formula . It is a colorless liquid. It is the methyl ester of trichloroacetic acid.
Methyl trichloroacetate can be synthesized by an esterification reaction between trichloroacetic acid and methanol in the presence of an acid as a catalyst (e.g. sulfuric acid).
Methyl trichloroacetate is primarily used in organic synthesis, especially as an intermediate in the production of various pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
Methyl trichloroacetate methylates carboxylic acids with the loss of chloroform and carbon dioxide. Direct fluorination of liquid methyl trichloroacetate produces fluoromethyl trichloroacetate and difluoromethyl trichloroacetate .
Methyl trichloroacetate possesses hazards typical of chlorinated organic compounds, including toxicity and environmental hazards. It can cause skin and respiratory irritation and serious eye irritation. It is toxic when inhaled.