Klooriformi

Klooriformi, also known as trichloromethane or methyl chloride, is a colorless, dense liquid with a sweetish odor. It is a volatile organic compound with the chemical formula CHCl3. Historically, it was widely used as an anesthetic and an analgesic, but its use in medicine has largely been discontinued due to its toxicity and potential for liver and kidney damage.

Industrially, klooriformi is primarily produced through the reaction of chloroform with hydrogen chloride. It is an important intermediate in the production of refrigerants, such as tetrafluoroethylene, which is a precursor to Teflon. It also finds applications as a solvent for waxes, resins, and rubber, and in the extraction of oils and fats.

Exposure to klooriformi can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Symptoms of acute exposure can include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and central nervous system depression. Chronic exposure can lead to more severe health effects, including liver and kidney damage, as well as potential carcinogenic effects. Due to its toxicity, handling klooriformi requires appropriate safety precautions, including adequate ventilation and personal protective equipment. It is also important to note that klooriformi can decompose in light and air to produce phosgene, a highly toxic gas.