1,1,2-trichloroethane

chemical compound

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Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

1,1,2-trichloroethane is a colorless, nonflammable liquid that belongs to the family of halogenated hydrocarbons. It is a highly toxic isomer and may be mutagenic and carcinogenic in humans with chronic exposure.1

This compound is produced from acetylene, hydrogen chloride, and chlorine, or from ethylene and chlorine. Its primary use is in the manufacture of 1,1-dichloroethylene.1

The other isomer, 1,1,1-trichloroethane, was widely used as a solvent for cleaning and degreasing metal and electronic machinery, as well as in coolants and the production of other chemicals. However, due to its harmful damage to the ozone layer, its production was banned by the Montreal Protocol in 1996 and has since been phased out globally.1

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trichloroethane
…produced by the reaction of 1,1-dichloroethylene and hydrogen chloride.
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…produced by the reaction of 1,1-dichloroethylene and hydrogen chloride.
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vinylidene chloride
…produced by the reaction of 1,1,2-trichloroethane (itself derived from acetylene or ethylene) with lime or with caustic soda; it usually is prepared only as it is needed because it is rapidly attacked by oxygen to form peroxides that catalyze the formation of undesired polymers.
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…produced by the reaction of 1,1,2-trichloroethane (itself derived from acetylene or ethylene) with lime or with caustic soda; it usually is prepared only as it is needed because it is rapidly attacked by oxygen to form peroxides that catalyze the formation of undesired polymers.
Read More