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Methyl Chloride

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    Specialty Chemicals

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Product Profile

Methyl Chloride (Chloromethane)

   CAS No.: 74-87-3
   Synonyms / IUPAC Name: Methyl Chloride, Chloromethane, Monochloromethane
   Molecular Formula: CH₃Cl
   Molecular Weight: 50.49 g/mol


Physicochemical Properties (Typical)

  • Appearance: Colorless gas under ambient conditions
  • Odor: Faint, slightly sweet
  • Melting Point: ≈ –97 °C
  • Boiling Point: ≈ –23.8 °C
  • Density (liquid, –23 °C): ≈ 1.00 g/mL
  • Vapor Density (air = 1): ≈ 1.7
  • Vapor Pressure (20 °C): Very high
  • Solubility in Water (20 °C): ≈ 5 g/L
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: Miscible with alcohols, ethers, and hydrocarbons
  • Flash Point: ≈ –45 °C (closed cup)
  • Auto-ignition Temperature: ≈ 630 °C
  • Explosive Limits (v/v in air): ≈ 8 % – 17 %
  • Refractive Index (n²⁰ᴰ): ≈ 1.33
  • Stability: Stable under normal storage; sensitive to heat and strong oxidizers

Purity & Quality Standards

  • Purity (by GC): ≥99.5%
  • Moisture Content: ≤0.005%
  • Non-volatile Residue: ≤0.001%
  • Acidity (as HCl): ≤0.001%
  • Heavy Metals: ≤0.001%
  • Analytical Methods: Gas chromatography, spectroscopy
  • Documentation: COA and SDS provided

Applications / Uses

  • Methylating and chlorinating agent in organic synthesis
  • Intermediate for production of silicones, quaternary ammonium salts, and methyl ethers
  • Refrigerant in low-temperature systems (historical applications)
  • Solvent for resins, greases, and waxes
  • Chemical feedstock for pharmaceutical and polymer industries

Safety & Handling

  • Hazard Class: Flammable gas, Toxic by inhalation
  • Health Hazards: Inhalation may cause dizziness, headache, CNS depression; high exposure may affect liver and kidneys
  • Exposure Limits: TWA 50 ppm; STEL 100 ppm; IDLH 2000 ppm
  • Precautions: Use only in well-ventilated areas; avoid sparks and open flames; wear goggles, gloves, respiratory protection
  • Fire & Explosion: Extremely flammable; vapors may travel and ignite at a distance; use explosion-proof equipment
  • Reactivity / Incompatibilities: Strong oxidizers, alkali metals, powdered aluminum or magnesium
  • Decomposition Products: Hydrogen chloride and phosgene under fire conditions

Packaging & Storage

  • Packaging: Compressed-gas cylinders designed for flammable gases
  • Storage Conditions: Cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas away from heat and ignition sources
  • Container Closure: Keep valves closed and cylinders secured upright
  • Handling Temperature: Do not exceed 50 °C (122 °F)
  • Shelf Life: Indefinite when stored in sealed, clean cylinders under recommended conditions