Methylene Chloride - CH2Cl2 (CAS# - 75-09-2)

Methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane (DCM), is a volatile, colorless liquid with a sweet odor. Here are some details about methylene chloride:

 1. Chemical Formula: CH2Cl2

2. CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) Number: 75-09-2

3. Molecular Weight: Approximately 84.93 g/mol

4. Physical Properties:

   - Appearance: Methylene chloride is a clear, colorless liquid at room temperature.

   - Density: Approximately 1.33 g/cm³ at 20°C (68°F).

   - Melting Point: -96.7°C (-142.1°F)

   - Boiling Point: 39.6°C (103.3°F)

   - Solubility: Methylene chloride is miscible with many organic solvents but only slightly soluble in water.

 5. Chemical Properties:

   - Methylene chloride is a halogenated hydrocarbon, containing two chlorine atoms bonded to a central carbon atom and two hydrogen atoms.

   - It is relatively stable under normal conditions but can undergo reactions such as halogenation, oxidation, and hydrolysis under certain conditions.

   - Methylene chloride is not easily flammable, but it can form flammable or explosive mixtures with air when vaporized.

 6. Production:

   - Methylene chloride is primarily produced by the chlorination of methane or chloromethane.

   - It is also produced as a byproduct of the production of chlorinated solvents and other chemicals.

 7. Uses:

   - Solvent: Methylene chloride is widely used as a solvent in various industrial applications, including paint stripping, degreasing, adhesive bonding, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

   - Paint Remover: It is commonly used as the active ingredient in paint and varnish removers due to its ability to dissolve and remove paint coatings from surfaces.

   - Extraction Agent: Methylene chloride is used as an extraction solvent in the production of caffeine from coffee beans and tea leaves.

   - Propellant: It is used as a propellant in aerosol products such as spray paints, foams, and insecticides.

   - Chemical Intermediate: Methylene chloride serves as a raw material for the synthesis of other chemicals, including polyurethane foams, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals.

 8. Health and Safety:

   - Methylene chloride is considered toxic and potentially carcinogenic to humans.

   - Inhalation of methylene chloride vapor can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, and respiratory irritation.

   - Prolonged or repeated exposure may lead to more serious health effects, including central nervous system depression, liver and kidney damage, and cancer.

   - Proper ventilation and personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection, should be used to minimize exposure.

   - Handling and use of methylene chloride should be conducted in well-ventilated areas, and exposure levels should be monitored to ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.

 Methylene chloride is a valuable solvent with diverse industrial applications, but its toxicity requires careful handling and safety precautions to prevent adverse health effects on workers and the environment.

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