Dichloromethane
Dichloromethane is an organic compound with the formula CH2Cl2. This colorless, volatile liquid with a moderately sweet aroma is widely used as a solvent. Although it is not miscible with water, it is miscible with many organic solvents.One of the most well-known applications of dichloromethane is in the drinking bird heat engine.
Use of dichloromethane
Methylene chloride used as an industrial solvent and also as a potent paint stripper and paint thinner.
DICHLOROMETHANE is a chlorinated hydrocarbon that has been used as an inhalation anesthetic and acts as a narcotic in high concentrations. Its primary use is as a solvent in manufacturing and food technology.
Toxicness
DCM is the least toxic of the simple chlorohydrocarbons, but it is not without health risks, as its high volatility makes it an acute inhalation hazard. It can also be absorbed through the skin.
DCM is also metabolized by the body to carbon monoxide potentially leading to carbon monoxide poisoning . Acute exposure by inhalation has resulted in optic neuropathy and hepatitis. Prolonged skin contact can result in DCM dissolving some of the fatty tissues in skin, resulting in skin irritation or chemical burns.