chloroform

Chloroform, also known as trichloromethane, is a colorless, dense, volatile liquid with a characteristic sweet odor. Its chemical formula is CHCl3, and it has a boiling point of 61.2°C. It is miscible with many organic solvents and is sparingly soluble in water. Chloroform is produced industrially by chlorinating methane or by chlorinating acetone under controlled conditions; historically, acetone treated with hypochlorous acid or chlorine was a common route.

Historically, chloroform was used as a general anesthetic and sedative in medicine from the mid-19th century until safety concerns led to replacement by safer agents. Today its use as an anesthetic has largely ceased. It remains used as a solvent in laboratories and in chemical manufacturing for certain reactions and as an intermediate in the production of other chlorinated compounds.

Safety and hazards: Chloroform can depress the central nervous system and is hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic with prolonged or high-level exposure. It is a potential carcinogen, and exposure should be minimized. Chloroform can decompose, especially in the presence of heat, light, or oxygen, to toxic phosgene gas. It should be handled in well-ventilated fume hoods with appropriate protective equipment. Regulatory controls limit occupational exposure and govern environmental release and disposal due to toxicity and environmental concerns.

Environmental and regulatory notes: As a volatile organic compound, chloroform can contribute to air and water contamination. Spills and waste must be managed according to hazardous-wabric waste guidelines and local regulations.