Ethyl chloride

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Ethyl Chloride is a chemical compound primarily used as a refrigerant, a local anesthetic, and in the manufacture of other chemicals. It is a colorless, volatile liquid with a faintly sweet odor.

Chemical Properties[edit | edit source]

Ethyl Chloride, also known as chloroethane, is a chemical compound with the formula C2H5Cl. It is the simplest and most common chloroalkane. This colorless, flammable gas or refrigerated liquid has a slightly sweet smell.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Ethyl Chloride is used in various industries for a variety of purposes. It is used as a refrigerant, a local anesthetic, and in the manufacture of other chemicals. It is also used as a blowing agent for foam packaging, and as a propellant in aerosols for products such as paints, coatings, and cleaners.

Health Effects[edit | edit source]

Exposure to Ethyl Chloride can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. It can also cause dizziness, confusion, and incoordination. Long-term exposure can lead to liver and kidney damage.

Safety Measures[edit | edit source]

Proper safety measures should be taken when handling Ethyl Chloride. This includes wearing protective clothing and eye protection, and ensuring good ventilation in the work area. In case of a spill, absorb with inert dry material and place in an appropriate waste disposal container.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Ethyl chloride Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD