Klorometani

Klorometani is a colorless and highly volatile liquid chemical compound with the molecular formula CH₃Cl. It belongs to the family of haloalkanes and is also known as methyl chloride or chloromethane.

Klorometani is produced commercially through the chlorination of methane, a process that involves the reaction of methane with chlorine gas. The resulting product is a gaseous mixture of methane and chlorometane, which is then separated and purified through fractional distillation.

The compound has a number of industrial applications, including as a solvent, refrigerant, and anesthetic. In the early 20th century, it was used as a general anesthetic, but its use was largely discontinued due to concerns over toxicity and the development of safer alternatives. Today, it is used in the production of chloroform, which is used as an anesthetic and in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals.

Klorometani is also used in the manufacture of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a common plastic material used in a wide range of applications, from building insulation to medical devices. It is also used as a refrigerant in the production of refrigeration equipment and as a solvent in the manufacture of adhesives and coatings.

Although klorometani has many industrial applications, it is also a toxic and highly reactive compound that can pose health risks if handled improperly. The compound is listed as a toxic substance under the United Nations' Rotterdam Convention, and its handling and storage are subject to strict regulations in many countries.