What Is 1,2-Dichloroethane?

1,2-Dichloroethane, also known as ethylene dichloride (EDC), is an important chlorinated organic compound with the molecular formula C₂H₄Cl₂ and a molecular weight of 98.96 g/mol. Its CAS number is 107-06-2.

At room temperature, it is a colorless, transparent and highly volatile liquid with a characteristic chloroform-like odor. It has good solvent properties and is widely used as an industrial chemical intermediate and solvent.

Key Properties of EDC

1,2-Dichloroethane has good solvency and volatility, making it useful in various industrial processes. It is also an important intermediate in the production of chlorinated chemicals.

Because of its flammable and hazardous properties, EDC requires careful handling, storage and transportation. Appropriate ventilation and personal protective equipment should be used during handling.

Main Applications

The most important application of 1,2-Dichloroethane is the production of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM). VCM is further used to manufacture polyvinyl chloride (PVC), making EDC an essential upstream raw material for the PVC industry.

EDC is also used as an industrial solvent and as a chemical intermediate in the production of various chlorinated compounds and other chemical products.

Importance in the Chemical Industry

1,2-Dichloroethane plays an important role in the global petrochemical and chlor-alkali industries. Its close connection with VCM and PVC production makes its supply and demand closely related to developments in the PVC industry.

With its wide industrial applications and key position in the PVC value chain, 1,2-Dichloroethane remains an important basic chemical raw material in the global market.