What Is Vinyl Chloride?
Vinyl chloride, an organic compound known as chloroethylene or chloroethene, consists of vinyl groups and chlorine. It is regulated under multiple laws due to its potential health risks, including being designated as a “Class 2 Monitoring Chemical Substance” and a “Class 2 Specified Chemical Substance” under various safety and health regulations.
Uses of Vinyl Chloride
Primarily, vinyl chloride is transformed into polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a polymer with widespread applications. PVC pipes, known for their mechanical stability, durability, and flame resistance, are used in various sectors such as construction, automotive, home appliances, and medical equipment. Soft PVC finds application in synthetic leather for furniture and clothing, enhancing its versatility.
Properties of Vinyl Chloride
With a melting point of -154°C and a boiling point of -13°C, vinyl chloride is highly reactive, facilitating easy polymerization under light and catalysts. Notably, it has been identified as a carcinogen linked to hepatic angiosarcoma, leading to regulatory measures limiting its use, despite ongoing production for PVC manufacturing.
Structure of Vinyl Chloride
The molecular structure of vinyl chloride, CH2=CHCl, allows for addition polymerization to form polyvinyl chloride, denoted as [-CH2-CHCl-]n, showcasing its fundamental role in PVC production.
Other Information on Vinyl Chloride
1. Vinyl Chloride Synthesis
Synthesized through direct chlorination and oxychlorination, vinyl chloride production involves reacting ethylene with chlorine in the presence of iron (III) chloride catalyst to form 1,2-dichloroethane, which is then decomposed to vinyl chloride. This process minimizes by-products, reducing environmental impact.
2. Synthesis of Polyvinyl Chloride
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is produced by polymerizing vinyl chloride monomers, distinguishing PVC from its monomer form and highlighting its importance in various applications.