Abstract

Chlorinated paraffins are well-established products in a wide range of diverse applications in today's modern industry. Although as a class of products they have been available for over 50 years, their continuing use results from manufacturers taking advantage of new base feedstocks to develop advanced products to meet the increasing technical demands of the new and emerging technologies. The physical and chemical properties of chlorinated paraffins are determined by the carbon chain length of the paraffin and the chlorine content.

The range of products now available are used as plasticizers in PVC, rubber, surface coatings, adhesives, and sealants where they impart the added benefits of fire retardance and chemical and water resistance. As fire-retardant additives they find specific usage in polyester resins, polyurethanes, and polyolefins. Chlorinated paraffins are also employed as extreme pressure additives in metal-working lubricants, as components of fat liquors for leather treatment, and as solvents in carbonless copying paper.

Comprehensive studies on toxicity and environmental impact have been carried out over many years. The acute toxicity of chlorinated paraffins to mammals, birds, and fish is low. Although there is evidence of toxicity to some aquatic species, interpretation of the results is made complicated because of the very low solubility of chlorinated paraffins in water.