Iodal, or triiodoacetaldehyde, is a halogenated derivative of acetaldehyde with the chemical formula, it is analogous to chloral and bromal. It is described as a pale yellow liquid with a pungent odour by Leopold Gmelin. It is decomposed to iodoform by potash.[1] Iodal was discovered and named in 1837.[2]
Iodal is synthesised from ethanol and iodine with concentrated nitric acid as the catalyst.[1] Its hydrate was described as water-soluble, white silky crystals.[3] Like most iodine compounds, Iodal is unstable under sunlight and gives off iodine over time.