Multi-faceted Development Trends and Policy Priorities in the Dichloromethane Industry CAS#75-09-2

In the chemical industry, dichloromethane (CAS#75-09-2) is an important organic compound that continues to attract significant industry attention. Recently, market developments and regulatory adjustments related to dichloromethane have sparked widespread discussion. Its primary production methods include the methanol chlorination process and the chloromethane process. The methanol chlorination method involves reacting methanol with hydrogen chloride in the presence of a catalyst to produce dichloromethane. This route is relatively simple and cost-effective, and it also yields useful by-products such as chloroform and carbon tetrachloride. The chloromethane method, on the other hand, relies on the high-temperature reaction between chlorine and methane to produce chloromethane and hydrogen chloride, after which dichloromethane is separated through distillation. While this process offers high selectivity, it also requires more advanced equipment and higher investment. Manufacturers must select the production route that best matches their operational capabilities.

Dichloromethane is widely used across various sectors. Industrially, it serves as an excellent solvent capable of dissolving fats, oils, and resins, and is also used in metal degreasing, paint removal, and as an aerosol propellant. In the pharmaceutical industry, it functions as a reaction medium in the synthesis of drugs such as ampicillin, carbenicillin, and cefalexin, and is also applied in extraction and purification processes. In the electronics sector, it is used for cleaning precision devices including electronic components and optical instruments. Suppliers must pay close attention to the specific demands of each application field.

With regard to safety, dichloromethane poses certain toxicological risks. Long-term or high-level exposure can significantly endanger human health. High concentrations may depress the central nervous system, causing dizziness, loss of consciousness, and respiratory irritation, while also potentially affecting cardiac function and damaging the liver and kidneys. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies dichloromethane as a Group 2A carcinogen. It can enter the body through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion, with inhalation being the primary exposure route. Therefore, proper safety measures—such as maintaining adequate ventilation, using respirators, protective eyewear, suitable clothing, and gloves, conducting regular occupational health check-ups, and strengthening safety training—are essential during use.