Abstract

Methylene chloride is a colorless, heavy liquid with a pleasant ethereal odor. Its outstanding solvent properties are the basis of its principal industrial interest. It is produced almost exclusively by the chlorination of lesser chlorinated methanes along with coproducts chloroform and carbon tetrachloride. U.S. capacity has been estimated at 242,600 t/yr although there is considerable flexibility to change the mix of the coproducts made. Methylene chloride production has declined significantly since 1985 because of an unfavorable carcinogenicity test. A projected growth rate of 0% per year is expected. Its primary uses are for paint stripping and metal cleaning. It is regulated by many federal and state laws.