Name | Chlorofluoromethane |
Synonyms | F31 FC 31 cfc31 CH2FCl CFC 31 CH2ClF Chlorfluormethan chlorofluoro-methan Chlorofluoromethane |
CAS | 593-70-4 |
EINECS | 209-803-2 |
Molecular Formula | CH2ClF |
Molar Mass | 68.48 |
Density | 1,271 g/cm3 |
Melting Point | -133°C |
Boling Point | -9.1°C |
Refractive Index | 1.3831 (estimate) |
Hazard Symbols | T - Toxic |
Safety Description | S23 - Do not breathe vapour. S38 - In case of insufficient ventilation, wear suitable respiratory equipment. |
UN IDs | 3163 |
Hazard Class | 2.2 |
Chlorofluoromethane is a colorless gas commonly used as a refrigerant and as an intermediate in some chemical reactions. However, chlorofluoromethane belongs to the class of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) which have been found to deplete the ozone layer, and therefore its use has been restricted or banned in many countries. In the atmosphere, chlorofluoromethane has a long lifetime and eventually breaks down into chlorine radicals upon exposure to sunlight, leading to ozone depletion. As a result, chlorofluoromethane is classified as a greenhouse gas and an ozone-depleting substance.
Properties:
- Chlorofluoromethane is a colorless gas with a slightly sweet odor.
Uses:
- Chlorofluoromethane is commonly used as a refrigerant in air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
- It is also used as a solvent in various chemical processes.
- Chlorofluoromethane can be used as a propellant in aerosol sprays.
Synthesis:
- Chlorofluoromethane can be produced by the reaction of methanol with hydrochloric acid and hydrogen fluoride.
Safety:
- Chlorofluoromethane is a highly flammable gas and should be handled with care to avoid fire hazards.
- It is harmful if inhaled and can cause dizziness, nausea, and breathing difficulties.
- Chlorofluoromethane is also an irritant to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.
- Exposure to high concentrations of chlorofluoromethane can result in asphyxiation.
It is important to follow proper safety precautions when handling chlorofluoromethane, including using it in well-ventilated areas, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, and avoiding direct contact with the gas.
(IARC) Carcinogen Classification | 3 (Vol. 41, Sup 7, 71) 1999 |
NIST chemical information | Methane, chlorofluoro-(593-70-4) |
EPA chemical information | HCFC-31 (593-70-4) |
Hazard Note | Toxic |
category | harmful gases |
toxicity classification | Poisoning |
acute toxicity | Inhalation-rat LC50: 4500 PPM/ 4 hours; Inhalation-mouse LC50: 12635 mg/m3 |
flammability hazard characteristics | Toxic fluoride and chloride fumes released from the fire scene |
storage and transportation characteristics | The warehouse is low temperature, ventilated and dry; fire prevention; light prevention |
fire extinguishing agent | water, carbon dioxide, dry powder, sand |