Carbon Tetrachloride: A Review of Its Uses and Health Effects
Abstract
Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a colorless, volatile liquid with a sweet odor. It has been used in a variety of applications, ranging from industrial solvent, to household cleaning agent, to fire extinguishers. In this review, we will discuss the properties of CCl4, its uses, and its associated health effects. We will also discuss regulations and guidelines regarding the use and disposal of CCl4.
Introduction
Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a colorless, volatile liquid with a sweet odor. It has a boiling point of 76.9°C and a melting point of -23.9°C. CCl4 is insoluble in water, but is miscible with many organic solvents. It is primarily composed of carbon and chlorine atoms, and is a nonpolar molecule. CCl4 has been used in a variety of applications, ranging from industrial solvent, to household cleaning agent, to fire extinguishers.
Uses
CCl4 has been used as a solvent in industrial processes for over a century. It is especially useful in the manufacturing of adhesives, inks, and other products. It has also been used as a cleaning agent in dry-cleaning processes, and as a reagent in chemical reactions. CCl4 has also been used in fire extinguishers, and in the manufacture of refrigerants and aerosol propellants.
Health Effects
Exposure to CCl4 can be harmful to human health. Inhalation of CCl4 vapors can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. Chronic exposure to CCl4 can cause damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. Ingestion of CCl4 can cause gastrointestinal irritation and damage to the liver and kidneys.
Regulations and Guidelines
Due to the hazardous nature of CCl4, regulatory action has been taken to limit its use and disposal. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified CCl4 as a hazardous air pollutant, and has issued guidelines for its safe use and disposal. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has also issued guidelines for the safe handling and storage of CCl4, and for the proper use of protective equipment when working with CCl4.
Conclusion
Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a colorless, volatile liquid that has been used in many industrial applications. It has a variety of uses, ranging from industrial solvent, to household cleaning agent, to fire extinguishers. CCl4 is hazardous to human health, and regulatory action has been taken to limit its use and disposal.
References
Baldwin, D., & Atwood, D. (2020). Carbon tetrachloride: Uses, health effects, and regulation. The Journal of Toxicology, 4(2), 1-7.
Environmental Protection Agency. (2020). Carbon tetrachloride. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/air-pollution-standards/carbon-tetrachloride
Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (2020). Carbon tetrachloride. Retrieved from https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/carbon_tetrachloride/