Dichloromethane (DCM, Laminate Cleaning Grade)
CAS 75-09-2Dichloromethane (DCM, methylene chloride, CAS 75-09-2) is a chlorinated solvent with exceptionally powerful solvency for a wide range of thermoset and thermoplastic resins, adhesives, and coatings.
Key Features
- ✓Extremely high solvency power (KB value ~136) — dissolves cured polyester, epoxy, polyurethane
- ✓Non-flammable at ambient temperature — no ignition hazard (though vapors are health hazards)
- ✓Very fast evaporation (bp 40°C) — leaves substrate dry quickly after cleaning
- ✓Regulated substance: IARC Group 2A, requires LEV and respiratory protection
- ✓EU-restricted for paint stripping use — verify local regulations before procurement
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Purity | ≥99.5% by GC |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| CAS Number | 75-09-2 |
| Flash point | None (non-flammable at ambient temperature) |
| Boiling point | 40°C |
| Density (20°C) | 1.325 g/cm³ |
| Kauri-Butanol value | ~136 |
| Relative evaporation rate | ~14 (n-BuAc = 1.0) |
FAQ
DCM (boiling point 40°C) has no measurable flash point at ambient temperature under standard test conditions — it does not form a flammable vapor-air mixture at normal temperatures, unlike acetone, MEK, or toluene. This non-flammability is due to its high chlorine content, which interrupts the radical combustion chain. However, non-flammability does not mean DCM is safe to use carelessly. The primary hazards of DCM are: (1) high vapor pressure (boiling point 40°C) means it rapidly creates high-concentration vapor in enclosed spaces, rapidly exceeding the TLV-TWA of 50 ppm; (2) DCM is metabolized to carbon monoxide in the body, contributing to CO toxicity even without CO exposure; (3) IARC Group 2A carcinogen with chronic exposure risks. High acute exposure causes CNS effects (dizziness, unconsciousness). Always use DCM with local exhaust ventilation and appropriate respiratory protection.