Chloroform
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.
Chloroform Uses
Primary UsesÂ
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 UsesÂ
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).
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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