[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods, applications of tetrachloroethylene

tetrachloroethylene properties

Tetrachloroethylene (Tetrachloroethylene, chemical formula C₂ Clhe), also known as perchloroethylene, is a colorless liquid with a sweet and aromatic odor. It is not flammable, insoluble in water, but can be miscible with a variety of organic solvents, high volatility. At normal temperature, tetrachloroethylene has a boiling point of 121°C and a density of about 1.622g/cm³. Its high density and non-flammable properties make it ideal for many industrial applications. Tetrachloroethylene has a strong ability to dissolve a variety of organic substances and inorganic salts, which further expands its application in various chemical fields.

The main use of tetrachloroethylene

The most well-known use of tetrachloroethylene is as a dry cleaning solvent. Its strong solvency and non-flammable properties make it the solvent of choice for the dry cleaning industry. Tetrachloroethylene is also widely used in metal cleaning, degreasing and decontamination. In chemical production, as an intermediate of organic synthesis, it participates in a variety of chemical reactions to generate important chemical products such as freon and chlorinated hydrocarbons. Tetrachloroethylene is also used in the production of coatings, adhesives, inks and herbicides, showing its wide application in many fields.

Tetrachloroethylene upstream and downstream raw materials

The production of tetrachloroethylene is mainly achieved by chlorinating ethylene and dechlorination reactions. The main upstream raw materials include chlorine and ethylene, which are chlorinated to produce vinyl chloride, which is further chlorinated to produce tetrachloroethylene. Another method of production is by pyrolysis and dechlorination of ethylene dichloride. Downstream, tetrachloroethylene as an intermediate can continue to be used to produce a variety of chemical products, such as trichloroethylene, hexachloroethane and so on. It can also be used as a raw material for fluorine chemical products, and further synthesis of chlorofluorocarbons such as freon.

Tetrachloroethylene storage method

The storage of tetrachloroethylene requires strict security measures. Due to its high volatility and toxicity, the storage environment must be well ventilated and avoid high temperatures and fire sources. Tetrachloroethylene shall be stored in closed, light-proof, corrosion-resistant containers, usually steel or glass-lined tanks. In order to prevent leakage, the storage area should be provided with emergency pool and leakage collection system. Operators should wear protective equipment to avoid skin contact and inhalation of vapors. The tightness and integrity of the tank and its ancillary equipment should also be checked regularly to ensure safe storage.

Tetrachloroethylene safety and environmental protection

Tetrachloroethylene has certain toxicity and potential harm to human health and environment. In the process of industrial production and use, its discharge and waste disposal should be strictly controlled. The workplace should be equipped with ventilation equipment and personal protective equipment to reduce the risk of worker exposure. Tetrachloroethylene waste liquid should be specially treated to avoid direct discharge into the environment and prevent soil and water pollution. Countries have strict regulations and standards for the use and emission of tetrachloroethylene, and companies need to comply with relevant regulations to ensure safety and environmental protection during production and use.

tetrachloroethylene market prospects

With the increasingly stringent environmental regulations, the market demand for tetrachloroethylene fluctuates. Nevertheless, its use in dry cleaning and industrial cleaning remains stable. With the progress of technology, the potential application prospect of tetrachloroethylene in the field of new materials and fine chemicals is gradually emerging. For example, in semiconductor manufacturing and high-end electronic product cleaning, tetrachloroethylene shows unique advantages. In the future, green chemistry and sustainable development will become important trends in the PCE industry, driving companies to develop more environmentally friendly and efficient production processes and alternative products.

Conclusion

As an important chemical raw material and solvent, tetrachloroethylene has a wide range of industrial applications. Its unique physical and chemical properties make it play an important role in dry cleaning, metal cleaning and organic synthesis. Despite the environmental and safety challenges, the tetrachloroethylene market still has great potential for growth. In the future, with the progress of environmental protection technology and the improvement of laws and regulations, the application of tetrachloroethylene will be more diversified and sustainable. Under the premise of ensuring safety and environmental protection, perchloroethylene will continue to occupy an important position in the chemical industry.