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

Properties of dichloroethane

Dichloroethane (1,2-Dichloroethane, referred to as EDC) is an important organic chemical raw materials, chemical formula is C2H4Cl2. It is a colorless and transparent liquid at room temperature, has a strong volatility, and has a sweet taste similar to chloroform. It has a density of 1.25g/cm³, a boiling point of 83.5°C, a melting point of -35°C and a flash point of 13°C. Dichloroethane has strong toxicity and carcinogenicity, so special attention must be paid to safety during use and handling.

Use of dichloroethane

Dichloroethane is widely used, mainly in the chemical industry. The most important use is as an intermediate of vinyl chloride (PVC monomer), about 95% of dichloroethane is used to produce vinyl chloride. Dichloroethane is also used as a solvent, widely used in the dissolution of fats, oils, resins, waxes and other substances. In the pesticide and pharmaceutical industries, dichloroethane is used as an intermediate in the manufacture of tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene and other chlorinated solvents. It is also used as one of the raw materials for the anti-vibration agent (ethyl dichloride) of automobile fuel.

Dichloroethane production process

Dichloroethane is produced mainly through two processes: direct chlorination and oxychlorination. The direct chlorination method is the direct reaction of ethylene and chlorine to produce dichloroethane, which has mild reaction conditions and high product purity. The law of oxychlorination is the reaction of ethylene, hydrogen chloride and oxygen to produce dichloroethane, which is more complex, but can use industrial by-product hydrogen chloride as raw material, with high economic benefits. Both methods have advantages and disadvantages, and the specific choice depends on the availability of raw materials and economic conditions.

Dichloroethane upstream and downstream raw materials

The main upstream raw materials of dichloroethane are ethylene and chlorine. Ethylene is a basic petrochemical product, usually obtained by naphtha cracking, while chlorine, the main product of the chlor-alkali industry, is produced by the electrolysis of brine. The downstream product of dichloroethane is mainly vinyl chloride (PVC monomer), which is produced by the cracking reaction of dichloroethane. It also includes some other chlorinated solvents and chemical intermediates.

Dichloroethane Market Demand

The demand of the global dichloroethane market is mainly driven by the PVC industry. With the increasing demand for PVC in the construction, automotive, electronics and other industries, the market demand for dichloroethane has also increased. Especially in the Asia-Pacific region, especially in developing countries such as China and India, the acceleration of urbanization and the expansion of infrastructure construction have greatly promoted the market demand for PVC and dichloroethane. The increasingly stringent environmental protection policies and safety supervision have also put forward higher requirements for the production and use of dichloroethane.

Dichloroethane storage method

Dichloroethane requires special attention during storage due to its chemical properties and toxicity. It should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated special warehouse, away from fire and heat sources. The storage container must be sealed with anti-corrosion materials, such as glass fiber reinforced plastic, stainless steel, etc., to avoid mixing with oxidants and acids for storage. Good ventilation and explosion-proof equipment shall be provided in the storage area to prevent vapor accumulation and accidents. Operators must wear appropriate protective equipment and undergo strict safety training to ensure safe storage and use.

Environmental impact

Dichloroethane is a volatile organic compound (VOC), which has a certain pollution risk to the environment. Its vapor can form photochemical smog in the atmosphere, which affects air quality. In water, dichloroethane is bioaccumulative and toxic to aquatic organisms. Therefore, in the process of production, transportation, storage and use, strict pollution control measures must be taken to prevent its leakage into the environment. Incineration or efficient decomposition technology should be used in waste disposal to reduce the harm to the environment.

Dichloroethane Safety Management

Safety management is particularly important due to the high toxicity and flammability of dichloroethane. Enterprises should establish a sound safety management system, including strict operating procedures, emergency treatment plans, etc. Regularly repair and maintain the equipment to ensure the normal operation of the equipment. The leak detection system shall be installed in the storage area and production workshop. In case of leakage, the emergency plan shall be started immediately for emergency treatment. Operators should conduct regular occupational health checks to ensure that their physical conditions meet the requirements of safe operation.

Future Development of Dichloroethane

With the technological progress and the improvement of environmental protection requirements, the production and use of dichloroethane are constantly optimized. On the one hand, by improving the production process, improve production efficiency and reduce pollutant emissions; on the other hand, research and develop new application areas to increase the added value of products. With the integration of the global chemical industry, the dichloroethane market will also face new opportunities and challenges. Enterprises need to continuously improve their technical level and management capabilities to cope with the dual pressures of market changes and environmental protection.

Conclusion

As an important chemical raw material, dichloroethane has a wide range of uses and market demand. Its production and use process involves complex chemical reactions and strict safety management. With the increasingly stringent environmental regulations and the continuous advancement of technology, the production and application of dichloroethane will develop in a more efficient, safe and environmentally friendly direction. Enterprises in the grasp of market opportunities also need to attach great importance to environmental protection and safety in production, in order to achieve sustainable development.