What Is Dichloroethane?
Dichloroethane, often abbreviated DCE, is a chlorinated hydrocarbon with the molecular formula C2H4Cl2. The CAS number 1300-21-6 refers to dichloroethane as a mixed-isomer product, while the most commercially important isomer, 1,2-dichloroethane, also called ethylene dichloride or EDC, has the CAS number 107-06-2. In practice, most industrial DCE is 1,2-dichloroethane.
At room temperature DCE is a colorless, oily liquid with a sweet, chloroform-like odor. It has limited solubility in water and dissolves readily in alcohol, chloroform, ether and most organic solvents. It is an excellent solvent for fats, greases, oils and waxes. Under normal storage conditions it is stable, although prolonged exposure to air, moisture and light can cause slow decomposition with the formation of corrosive products.
Primary Use: Vinyl Chloride and PVC
The dominant use of 1,2-dichloroethane is as a chemical intermediate in the production of vinyl chloride monomer, VCM. EDC is thermally cracked at high temperature to release hydrogen chloride and form VCM. The vinyl chloride is then polymerized to polyvinyl chloride, PVC, one of the most widely produced plastics in the world.
PVC is used in pipes, profiles, cable insulation, flooring, packaging films, food containers and many other durable goods. Because of this chain, EDC demand tracks construction and consumer markets closely.
Industrial Solvent and Other Applications
DCE is used as a solvent to dissolve waxes, resins, thermoplastics and rubbers. It appears in degreasing operations, in adhesive formulations and as an extraction solvent in certain processes. Its high solvency for fats and oils made it useful historically in oilseed extraction and in cleaning applications where strong solvency is required.
Because DCE is volatile and chlorinated, solvent uses are subject to strict emission controls in many countries, and replacement by safer solvents is a continuing trend.
Beyond VCM, 1,2-dichloroethane is a building block for several chemicals, including ethylenediamine, which is used in chelating agents and epoxy curing agents. It can also appear as a degradation product of other chlorinated compounds and has been used in the manufacture of certain specialty goods. In the past it was used in leaded gasoline additives, but that application has been discontinued in most of the world.
Health and Safety Profile
Dichloroethane is a hazardous substance. It is toxic by inhalation and harmful if swallowed, and it is classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans by the IARC and as a category 1B carcinogen under EU classification. Repeated exposure can damage the liver, kidneys and nervous system. The liquid is also flammable, with vapors that can form explosive mixtures in confined spaces.
Handling requires closed systems or effective ventilation, personal protective equipment including gloves and goggles, and strict control of ignition sources. Storage must be away from oxidizers and moisture, and the substance is transported as a dangerous good under UN 1184. Importers must confirm local registration, labeling and exposure limit requirements before purchasing.
Regulatory and Buying Considerations
Because of its hazard profile, DCE is regulated as a hazardous chemical in most jurisdictions. Buyers should verify the supplier certificates, including the certificate of analysis and safety data sheet, confirm the exact isomer and purity, and ensure that transport and storage comply with local dangerous goods rules. Technical grade DCE is normally supplied with a purity of 99 percent or higher.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CAS number of 1,2-dichloroethane? 1,2-Dichloroethane, also called ethylene dichloride, has the CAS number 107-06-2, while CAS 1300-21-6 covers dichloroethane mixed isomers.
What is DCE used for? DCE is used mainly to produce vinyl chloride monomer for PVC, and as an industrial solvent and chemical building block.
Is dichloroethane the same as ethylene dichloride? Ethylene dichloride, EDC, is the common name of 1,2-dichloroethane, which is the main commercial isomer of dichloroethane.
Is DCE dangerous? Yes. DCE is toxic by inhalation, harmful if swallowed, possibly carcinogenic to humans, and flammable, so it requires careful handling and ventilation.
Can DCE dissolve in water? DCE has only limited solubility in water but dissolves well in alcohol, chloroform, ether and most organic solvents.
Why is EDC important to the plastics industry? EDC is the main feedstock for vinyl chloride monomer, which is polymerized into PVC used in pipes, profiles, cables and packaging.