ClCHCH2

ClCHCH2 refers to vinyl chloride, the vinyl-substituted chloride with the molecular formula C2H3Cl. Its common structural representation is CH2=CHCl, i.e., a vinyl group (CH2=CH–) bearing a chlorine substituent on the second carbon. Vinyl chloride is a colorless, highly flammable gas at room temperature and is widely used as the monomer for polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Its IUPAC name is chloroethene, with vinyl chloride as a widely used synonym.

Industrial production of vinyl chloride is dominated by the dehydrochlorination of 1,2-dichloroethane (ethylene dichloride) to vinyl chloride and hydrogen chloride, typically over copper-containing catalysts at elevated temperature. An alternative route involves the hydrochlorination of acetylene to yield vinyl chloride. In practice, vinyl chloride is handled as a refrigerated liquid or pressurized gas and is stabilized in storage to prevent premature polymerization.

In use, vinyl chloride is primarily polymerized to PVC, a versatile plastic found in pipes, cables, packaging, and many consumer products. The monomer is a regulated chemical due to safety concerns. Vinyl chloride is a known human carcinogen; long-term exposure has been linked to an increased risk of hepatic angiosarcoma and other cancers. Occupational exposure is controlled by exposure limits and engineering controls, with emphasis on containment, monitoring, and rapid response to leaks. Environmental releases are subject to air and water treatment regulations, given its status as a volatile organic compound.