Indicative Prices (Reference Only)
| Region / Market | Indicative Price |
|---|---|
| China (bulk, domestic / FOB) | US$ 0.85–0.93 per litre |
| China (lab / reagent grade) | Sold by bottle; typically on the order of tens of RMB per 500 ml bottle (equivalent to roughly ¥60–120 per litre) |
| South America (Brazil, import-derived) | US$ 0.40–0.50 per litre |
| European / other markets (lab grade) | US$ ~1.00 per litre |
Note: these figures are indicative reference points and vary with purity grade (industrial vs reagent), packaging (bulk ISO tank / drum vs bottle), quantity, delivery terms and market timing. Confirm current quotes for each order. Bulk FOB prices are commonly quoted per metric ton and converted to per-litre values using DCM's density (about 1.33 kg/L).
What Is Dichloromethane (CAS 75-09-2)?
Dichloromethane, also known as methylene chloride and abbreviated as DCM, is a colorless organic compound with an ether-like pungent odor, having the chemical formula CH₂Cl₂. This compound is formed by replacing two hydrogen atoms in methane (CH₄) with chlorine atoms. It is slightly soluble in water but soluble in ethanol and diethyl ether. Under typical usage conditions it functions as a non-flammable, low-boiling-point solvent. Its vapors only form a weakly combustible mixture at high concentrations in hot air, making it a common substitute for flammable solvents like petroleum ether and diethyl ether. Possessing excellent solubility, it finds extensive industrial applications as a solvent, intermediate and coolant, and serves important functions in pharmaceutical preparation and laboratories.
How Is Dichloromethane Produced?
Dichloromethane is primarily produced by the chlorination of methane. Methane reacts with chlorine gas under heat or UV light, forming methyl chloride, which is further chlorinated to produce dichloromethane. The resulting mixture is then separated by distillation to isolate dichloromethane.
Main Uses of DCM
- Industrial solvent: paint strippers and varnish removers, metal degreasing in aerospace and automotive industries, and adhesive formulations for plastic bonding.
- Chemical processing: reaction medium in the production of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals; polymer processing including foam blowing.
- Laboratory use: liquid-liquid extraction, chromatography, and recrystallization solvent.
- Food and beverage: decaffeination of coffee and tea; flavor and fragrance extraction.
- Pharmaceuticals: synthesis and purification of APIs; drug formulation solvent.
- Other: aerosol propellant/solvent and specialized cleaning of delicate surfaces.