CAS 75-09-2 · Chlorinated Solvent
Methylene Chloride
Dichloromethane (DCM) · CH₂Cl₂ · MW 84.93 g/mol
Methylene chloride is a fast-evaporating, non-flammable chlorinated solvent with exceptional solvency power for a broad range of organic compounds. Its low boiling point, high density, and immiscibility with water make it the go-to solvent for paint stripping, pharmaceutical extraction, metal degreasing, and chemical processing. Texas-Chem supplies DCM in industrial, ACS, and HPLC grades in drums, totes, and bulk.
Formula
CH₂Cl₂
Boiling Point
39.6 °C
Solubility
Slightly water-miscible
Pack Sizes
Drums · Totes · Bulk
Structural Formula
Central carbon bonded to two chlorine atoms and two hydrogen atoms — tetrahedral geometry
Safety & Regulatory
- NFPA Health
- 2 — Moderate hazard
- NFPA Flammability
- 1 — Slight hazard
- NFPA Reactivity
- 0 — Stable
- OSHA PEL (TWA)
- 25 ppm (2016 Action Level)
- ACGIH TLV (TWA)
- 50 ppm
- IDLH
- 2,300 ppm
- DOT Hazard Class
- 6.1 — Toxic Liquid
- UN Number
- UN 1593
- Packing Group
- III
Consult current OSHA regulations for workplace exposure requirements. Always consult the current Safety Data Sheet before handling.
Grades & Packaging
Available Grades
Pack Sizes
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Molecular Formula | CH₂Cl₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 84.93 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 75-09-2 |
| Boiling Point | 39.6 °C (103.3 °F) |
| Melting Point | −96.7 °C (−142.1 °F) |
| Flash Point | None (non-flammable) |
| Density | 1.325 g/cm³ at 20 °C |
| Vapor Pressure | 47 kPa at 20 °C |
| Solubility in Water | 20 g/L at 20 °C |
| Refractive Index | 1.4242 at 20 °C |
| Auto-ignition Temp. | 556 °C (1,033 °F) |
| Explosive Limits | 13% – 23% (v/v in air) |
Industrial Applications
Paint & Coating Removal
The most effective solvent for stripping cured paints, varnishes, and industrial coatings from metal, wood, and concrete surfaces. Penetrates rapidly and lifts films without mechanical abrasion.
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
ACS/HPLC-grade DCM is a primary extraction and reaction solvent for APIs, natural product isolation, and chromatographic purification. Its low boiling point allows easy removal under mild conditions.
Metal Cleaning & Degreasing
Vapor degreasing and cold cleaning of precision metal parts, electronics assemblies, and aerospace components. Dissolves oils, greases, and flux residues without leaving conductive residues.
Adhesives & Sealants
Solvent welding agent for PVC, polycarbonate, and ABS plastics. Used in contact cements and as a carrier solvent in pressure-sensitive adhesive formulations.
Foam Blowing Agent
Used as a physical blowing agent in the production of flexible and rigid polyurethane foams, providing controlled cell structure and density.
Chemical Extraction
Standard extraction solvent for caffeine decaffeination, hop extraction, and isolation of natural flavors and fragrances. High selectivity and easy recovery by distillation.
Why Source Methylene Chloride from Texas-Chem?
- 35+ years supplying chlorinated solvents to Texas manufacturers and processors
- Industrial, ACS reagent, HPLC, and technical grades available
- Flexible packaging from 55-gal drums to bulk tanker delivery
- Competitive pricing backed by top-tier producer relationships
- Technical support and SDS documentation with every order
- Same-day quotes for standard quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is methylene chloride used for in industrial manufacturing and processing?▾
Methylene chloride (dichloromethane, DCM) is a high-solvency chlorinated solvent used in paint stripping, adhesive manufacturing, pharmaceutical production, metal degreasing, and chemical synthesis. Its ability to dissolve a wide range of resins, waxes, and coatings makes it one of the most effective industrial solvents available. Chemical & Filtration Products of Texas supplies industrial-grade methylene chloride with full SDS documentation and lot traceability on every order. Contact us at 855-TEX-CHEM for current pricing and availability.
What are the regulatory requirements for using methylene chloride in a Texas industrial facility?▾
Methylene chloride is subject to EPA worker protection rules under OSHA 1910.1052, which require air monitoring, engineering controls, personal protective equipment, and medical surveillance for workers exposed above the Action Level (12.5 ppm TWA) or PEL (25 ppm TWA). Facilities must maintain current SDS documentation on-site and include methylene chloride in their hazard communication program. Chemical & Filtration Products of Texas provides a current SDS with every shipment so your EHS team has the documentation needed for OSHA compliance. Contact us at 855-TEX-CHEM before your first order if you have specific compliance questions.
Is methylene chloride available in drum and bulk quantities in Texas?▾
Yes. We supply methylene chloride in single drums, IBC totes, and bulk tanker quantities to manufacturing plants, coatings operations, pharmaceutical facilities, and industrial cleaning operations across Texas. Delivery is available to Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin, and surrounding areas. Each shipment includes SDS documentation and full lot traceability. Contact us at 855-TEX-CHEM or [email protected] to request a quote for your volume and delivery requirements.
What grade of methylene chloride is required for pharmaceutical and laboratory applications?▾
Pharmaceutical and laboratory applications typically require ACS Reagent-grade or USP-grade methylene chloride, which meets purity specifications set by the American Chemical Society or United States Pharmacopeia respectively. Industrial-grade DCM is sufficient for paint stripping, metal degreasing, and coating applications where maximum purity is not required. We can confirm grade availability for your specific application. Contact us at 855-TEX-CHEM for current grade specifications and pricing.
What documentation is included with methylene chloride orders to support facility compliance?▾
Every methylene chloride shipment includes a current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) per OSHA HazCom 2012 (GHS) format, lot number for full traceability back to the source manufacturer, and grade certification confirming the product specification. This documentation package supports your OSHA compliance program, facility safety plan, and audit requirements. Contact us at 855-TEX-CHEM if you need additional documentation formats or compliance support before placing an order.
What are the proper storage requirements for methylene chloride at an industrial facility?▾
Methylene chloride should be stored in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat, direct sunlight, and incompatible materials (strong oxidizers, strong bases). While it is non-flammable at room temperature, it can decompose at high temperatures to produce toxic gases including hydrochloric acid and phosgene. Storage areas must be ventilated, and workers must have access to PPE including chemical-resistant gloves and appropriate respiratory protection. Current SDS documentation is included with every order. Contact us at 855-TEX-CHEM for guidance.