Chloroform

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Chloroform (Trichloromethane) is a clear, colorless, volatile liquid with a sweet, pleasant odor. It is a widely used organic solvent with excellent solvency for many substances. Historically employed as an anesthetic, chloroform is now primarily used in laboratories and industry for extraction, degreasing, and chemical synthesis. It has moderate volatility and is heavier than air, requiring careful handling to avoid inhalation hazards. Its chemical stability and ability to dissolve fats, alkaloids, and other substances make it valuable in pharmaceutical, chemical, and industrial processes.

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Categories: Solvents(pharmaceutical), Solvents(lab) Tags: Chemical synthesis, Chloroform, Clear, colorless liquid, Pharmaceutical intermediate, Solvent, Trichloromethane

Description

Table of Contents

Chloroform

Primary Uses

Pharmaceuticals & Laboratories

Solvent for extraction and purification of compounds in pharmaceutical manufacturing and research.
Used in chromatographic processes and analytical chemistry for sample preparation.
Employed as a reagent and solvent in organic synthesis reactions.

Industrial Applications

Used as a solvent for fats, oils, waxes, rubber, and resins.
Degreasing agent in metal cleaning and industrial manufacturing.
Utilized in the production of refrigerants and as a precursor in chemical manufacturing.

Secondary Uses

Historical Medical Use

Formerly used as an inhalation anesthetic; now largely discontinued due to toxicity.

Laboratory Research

Used as a solvent for NMR spectroscopy sample preparation (deuterated chloroform).

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Trichloromethane
Common/Trade Name: Chloroform
CAS Number: 67-66-3
HS Code: 2903.39.00
Molecular Formula: CHCl₃
Synonyms:
- Trichloromethane
- Methyl trichloride

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Clear, volatile liquid
Color & Odor: Colorless; sweet, ether-like odor
Melting Point: -63.5°C
Boiling Point: 61.2°C
Density: 1.49 g/cm³ at 20°C
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water (~0.8 g/100 mL at 20°C); miscible with organic solvents such as alcohol, ether, and benzene
Vapor Pressure: 160 mmHg at 20°C
Stability: Stable under normal conditions but decomposes in presence of light and oxygen producing phosgene, a toxic gas

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Toxic, flammable, suspected carcinogen
NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 3
- Flammability: 1
- Reactivity: 0
Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL = 2 ppm (8-hour TWA); NIOSH REL = 2 ppm
Toxicity: Harmful if inhaled or absorbed; causes central nervous system depression, liver and kidney damage; possible carcinogen
Reactivity: Stable but decomposes under light exposure to toxic phosgene

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed containers away from heat, light, and ignition sources; preferably in cool, dark storage
Container Type: Glass or metal containers with vapor-tight seals
Shelf Life: Indefinite if stored properly away from light and moisture
Special Handling: Use in well-ventilated areas or fume hoods; wear PPE including respirators when necessary

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

FDA Status: Not approved for pharmaceutical use due to toxicity
REACH Status: Registered and regulated under EU chemical safety laws
Transportation: Classified as a hazardous material (Class 6.1 Toxic substance)
Waste Disposal: Dispose as hazardous waste according to local regulations

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
Persistence: Moderately persistent in the environment
Bioaccumulation: Low potential for bioaccumulation
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Classified by IARC as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans)
Biodegradability: Slowly biodegradable

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE: Use chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, lab coat, and respirators when handling vapors
Handling: Avoid inhalation and skin contact; use only in well-ventilated areas or fume hoods
Storage: Keep container sealed and stored away from heat, sparks, and sunlight
Hygiene: Wash hands after handling; do not eat, drink, or smoke in work area

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move victim to fresh air; if breathing is difficult, provide oxygen; seek medical attention immediately
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash skin thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical attention if irritation develops
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek immediate medical care
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek emergency medical assistance immediately

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Combustible liquid; emits toxic gases (phosgene, hydrogen chloride) when heated or burning
Extinguishing Media: Use dry chemical, foam, or carbon dioxide extinguishers; do not use water jet
Special Precautions: Firefighters must wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
Decomposition Products: Phosgene, hydrogen chloride, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide