Method of preparing methylchloromethyltetrachlorobenzenes and di-(chloromethyl)-tetrachlorobenzenes

Abstract

A process for preparing a chloromethyl-tetrachlorobenzene which comprises the steps of: A. contacting a xylene in a chlorine resistant solvent with 0.5 to 2, preferably 1 to 2 weight percent of FeCl.sub.3, based upon the weight of said xylene, at a temperature of 20 to 70.degree. C in the absence of light in a vessel having a vapor space over the level of the xylene solution. B. introducing into said vapor space chlorine and passing the same over said solution while strongly agitating the solution, said chlorine being introduced such that an excess pressure of 0.01 to 1 atmosphere exists over said solution; C. maintaining said solution at said temperature of 20 to 70.degree. C for a period of time at least 0.5 hours, preferably between 3 and 6 hours; D. thereafter directing energy-rich light at said vapor space while adding chlorine into said vapor space and maintaining the excess pressure over said solution at 0.01 to 1 atmosphere while maintaining the solution at a temperature of 50.degree. to 80.degree. C for a period of time of at least 0.5 hours, preferably between 4 and 7 hours and while continuing said agitation; and E. separating and recovering a chloromethyltetrachlorobenzene.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.