Perchloroethylene Cl2C=CCl2

Perchloroethylene Cl2C=CCl2

Properties: Perchloroethylene is a non-combustible but volatile solvent. Has a sharp odor such that even an amount as low as 1 ppm in air can be noticed by humans. Perchloroethylene is produced from dichloroethane. Since trichloroethylene is another by-product released during this reaction, these two chemicals are later separated from each other by distillation technique. Like all other chlorinated solvents, perchloroethylene has depressant effect on nervous system. Contact with vapor can cause dizziness, headache, sleepiness, loss of consciousness. Continuous contact with human skin can cause serious skin problems as perchloroethylene will completely dissolve the fat in the skin. Its solubility in water is limited but can mix completely with solvents such as ethanol, acetone, chloroform.

Applications: Perchloroethylene is used as solvent in many applications. Many organic materials dissolve in perchloroethylene. The most widely used solvent in dry cleaning. Also used in automotive and other metal-related sectors to remove grease from metal. Found as a component in consumer products such as stain removers and spot removers. Another area of use is production of refrigerants such as HCFC.