1,1,2-Trichloroethane, vinyl trichloride or 1,1,2-TCA, is an organochloride solvent with the molecular formula C2H3Cl3 and the structural formula CH2Cl−CHCl2. It is a colourless, sweet-smelling liquid that does not dissolve in water, but is soluble in most organic solvents. It is an isomer of 1,1,1-trichloroethane, and a byproduct of its manufacture.
It is used as a solvent and as an intermediate in the synthesis of 1,1-dichloroethylene.
Toxicity
1,1,2-Trichloroethane may be harmful by inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact. It is a respiratory and eye irritant. 1,1,2-TCA is a central nervous system depressant and inhalation of vapors may cause dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, shortness of breath, and unconsciousness.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health have set occupational exposure limits to 1,1,2-trichloroethane at 10 ppm over an eight-hour time-weighted average.
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