Perchloroethylene (tetrachloroethylene)

Perchloroethylene is mainly used in the textile industry for dry cleaning of clothing and products, as well as in metallurgy and mechanical engineering for degreasing process surfaces. Despite its effectiveness, the substance causes environmental and sanitary concerns, which requires compliance with strict standards for operation and disposal.

Chemical structure and synthesis

Perchloroethylene has the following chemical formula:

C2​Cl4​

Synthesis:
Perchloroethylene is obtained by chlorination of ethylene with further control of the degree of substitution of hydrogens for chlorine atoms. The synthesis technology includes the stage of ethylene-chlorine contact at low temperatures in the presence of catalysts.

Physico-chemical properties

• Physical condition: Colorless liquid with a characteristic chloroform-like odor.

• Solubility: Practically insoluble in water, highly soluble in organic solvents.

• Boiling point: It is relatively low (about 121 °C), which ensures its high volatility.

• Chemical inertia: It is stable in a wide range of conditions and is not prone to participate in nucleophilic substitution reactions.

Application

• Dry cleaning: The main solvent for the treatment of fabrics and clothing.

• Degreasing: It is used to remove oil and grease contaminants from metal and process surfaces.

• Cleaning of equipment: It is used in production lines to prepare parts for further processing.

Conclusion

Perchloroethylene is an effective solvent for a number of industrial processes due to its low polarity and chemical inertia. At the same time, its use must be accompanied by strict compliance with safety standards and environmental protection requirements, since the substance has a significant impact on human health and ecosystems.