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
SDS available upon request. Consult current OSHA regulations for workplace exposure requirements.
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