Perchloroethylene (Tetrachloroethylene, PCE) is a halogenated hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C₂Cl₄. Its main chemical properties are as follows:
Chemical Inertness:
At room temperature, PCE is stable in the presence of water, dilute acids, and alkalis, and it does not easily undergo hydrolysis or oxidation. However, in strong alkalis (such as sodium hydroxide in alcohol solution), it may undergo dehalogenation reactions, forming trichloroethylene and other products.
Photolysis Reaction:
Under ultraviolet radiation, C₂Cl₄ gradually decomposes to produce intermediates such as trichloroacetyl chloride (CCl₃COCl) and dichloroacetyl chloride (CCl₂HCOCl), which may further release chlorine gas (Cl₂) or form phosgene (COCl₂).
Thermal Stability:
At high temperatures (above 150°C) or during combustion, tetrachloroethylene decomposes, releasing toxic gases such as phosgene (COCl₂), hydrogen chloride (HCl), and chlorine (Cl₂). Therefore, it must be kept away from open flames.
Metal Corrosivity:
At elevated temperatures, perchloroethylene(PCE) can corrode reactive metals such as aluminum and magnesium, and moist conditions can further accelerate this corrosion.
Solvent Properties:
As a nonpolar solvent, perchloroethylene(PCE) can dissolve oils, waxes, rubbers, and other polymers, and has been widely used in dry cleaning and industrial degreasing applications.
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