Chloroethane (ethyl chloride): Overview
Description
Ethyl chloride is used as a chemical intermediate, in solvents, aerosols, and anaesthesia. Currently, chloroethane is largely used as a blowing agent in foamed plastics. In the past, chloroethane was used in the production of tetraethyl lead, an anti-knock additive to leaded gasoline. Chloroethane has also been used in the production of ethyl cellulose and for miscellaneous applications including use as a solvent, for phosphorus, sulfur, fats, oils, resins and waxes; in insecticides; and as an ethylating agent in the manufacture of dyes and drugs, refrigerant, and topical anaesthetic and use in the manufacture of dyes, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Other uses of chloroethane are as a pulp vitality tester in dentistry, as a medication to alleviate pain associated with insect burns and stings, as an adjunct in the treatment of tinea lesions and creeping eruptions, and as a counterirritant for relief of myofacial and visceral pain syndromes. Chloroethane is also used as a solvent, as a refrigerant, and in the production of ethyl cellulose, dyes, medicinal drugs, and other commercial chemicals. It is also used to numb skin prior to medical procedures such as ear piercing and skin biopsy, and in sports injuries.
Substance details
Substance name: Chloroethane (ethyl chloride)
CASR number: 75-00-3
Molecular formula: C2H5CL
Synonyms: ethane, dublofix, chloroether, chloratus, ether hydrochloric, ether muriatic, ethyl chloride, HSDB 533, hydrochloric ether, kelene, monochlorethane, muriatic ether, narcotile, NCI-CO6224, NCI-c06224, UN 1037
Physical properties
Ethyl chloride is a colourless flammable gas at ordinary temperature and pressure. It has a characteristic ether-like odour and a burning taste.
Boiling Point: 12.3°C
Melting Point: -138.7°C
Vapour Density: 2.22
Specific Gravity: 0.9214 at 0°C
Vapour Pressure: 1000 mm Hg at 20°C
Chemical properties
Ethyl chloride is a flammable gas at ordinary temperature and pressure and a mobile volatile liquid below 12°C or/and increased pressure. Chloroethane burns with a smoky, greenish flame, which results is a result of the production of hydrogen chloride. It reacts violently with oxidants, alkaline metals, calcium, magnesium, aluminium powder, and zinc. It reacts with water or steam producing corrosive fumes of hydrogen chloride.
Further information
The National Pollutant Inventory (NPI) holds data for all sources of chloroethane emissions in Australia.
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