Chloroform
From PyroGuide
Chloroform (also known as trichloromethane and methyl trichloride) is often used as a non-polar solvent. It is also used an anesthetic, however it has a higher toxicity as well as being an environmental hazard. It is more commonly found in refrigerants in today's usage
The chemical formula for Chloroform is CHCl3 and has a molar mass of 119.38g/mol. It has a melting point of -63.5°C, a boiling point of 61.2°C, and a density of 1.48g/cm^3, liquid. It's solubility in water is 0.8g/100mL at 20°C making it insoluble in water. It's flash-point is specified as non-flammable. It is a common solvent since it's usually nonreactive and miscible with most organic liquids where it may be volatile.
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[edit] Safety
Chloroform Hazards: Xn, Xi. It is also a Carcinogen
NFPA 704: Blue - 2, Red - 0, Yellow - 0, White - n/a
R-Phases: R22, R38, R40, R48/20/22
S-Phases: (S2), S36/37
[edit] Production
Editor's note: Please note this is only an overview
Between 400 and 500°C a mixture of chlorine and chloromethane and/or methane is heated. The reaction follows:
- CH4 + Cl2 → CH3Cl + HCl
- CH3Cl + Cl2 → CH2Cl2 + HCl
- CH2Cl + Cl2 → CHCl3 + HCl
- CH4 + Cl2 → CH3Cl + HCl
Continuing the reaction we would also create
- CHCl3 + Cl2 → CCl4 + HCl
- CHCl3 + Cl2 → CCl4 + HCl
The reaction will contain all four types of chloromethanes and can be separated by distillation.
[edit] Inadvertent Synthesis
Sodium Hypochlorite solution is mixed with either acetone, MEK, ethanol, or isopropyl alcohol in addition to other substances. This is referred to as a haloform reaction.
[edit] References
Wikipedia - Chloroform for it's completeness of information.
