1. Product Introduction & Main Application
Arnico’s Ethylene Dichloride (EDC), also known as 1,2-Dichloroethane, is a clear, colorless, volatile liquid with a sweet, chloroform-like odor, produced from the reaction of ethylene with chlorine. This chemical intermediate is used almost exclusively (about 98%) for the production of Vinyl Chloride Monomer (VCM), the primary raw material for PVC, one of the most widely used plastics in the world.
2. Technical Specifications
| Technical Parameter | Cracking Grade (for VCM) | Stabilized Industrial Grade | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity | ≥ 99.8 | ≥ 99.5 | % |
| Water | ≤ 0.005 | ≤ 0.02 | % |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.2 | ≤ 1.0 | ppm |
| Acidity (as HCl) | ≤ 1 | ≤ 5 | ppm |
| Color (APHA) | ≤ 10 | ≤ 15 | Pt-Co |
| Stabilizer | None | Present (e.g., Cyclohexene) | – |
| Density (20°C) | 1.252 – 1.255 | 1.250 – 1.255 | g/cm³ |
3. Features & Benefits
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Very High Purity for Cracking: A formulation free from iron and acid minimizes VCM cracking furnace corrosion and extends coil life.
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High-Yield Conversion to VCM: Optimally designed for thermal decomposition into vinyl chloride and HCl with maximum efficiency.
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Powerful Chlorinated Solvent: Serves as an industrial solvent for degreasing and cleaning metals (in the stabilized grade).
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Chemical Stability: Resistant to degradation and oxidation during storage.
4. Industrial Applications
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PVC Production: The primary and strategic raw material in the PVC production chain.
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Chemical Industry: A solvent in the synthesis of chlorinated organic compounds and pharmaceutical intermediates.
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Metal Cleaning: A degreasing and cleaning solvent in the metalworking industry.
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Adhesive Production: A carrier in some solvent-based adhesives.
5. Safety & Handling
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MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): This liquid is flammable and highly toxic. It is a potential human carcinogen. Inhalation of its vapors is hazardous. The Arnico MSDS is mandatory.
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Storage Conditions: Store in carbon steel or stainless steel tanks, under a nitrogen blanket, in a cool environment, away from aluminum (a dangerous reaction) and sunlight.
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The use of a full-face respirator with an AX filter, Viton gloves, and solvent-resistant clothing is mandatory.
6. Quality Assurance & COA
Arnico EDC shipments are accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing a precise GC analysis and iron content.
