1,2-DCA is a thick, colorless liquid that evaporates quickly and has a pleasant odor and sweet taste.
It's used to make vinyl chloride and as a solvent to remove grease and glue. In the home, 1,2-DCA can be found in some cleaning solvents, pesticides, glues, varnishes, and strippers. 1,2-DCA has been found in groundwater and soil near landfills and industries using large chemical quantities. When 1,2-DCA enters the environment, it can seep into the soil or evaporate into the air. It eventually may reach groundwater and contaminate local drinking water supplies.
Safety Considerations
1,2-Dichloroethane should be handled with care due to its potential health and environmental hazards. Prolonged exposure or inhalation of its vapors can be harmful and may cause irritation to the respiratory system, skin, and eyes. It is considered a hazardous substance, and proper safety measures should be in place when working with it.
