CAS Number: 79-34-5. A pale to yellowish liquid with a pungent,
chloroform-like odor. Previously used in large amounts to produce
trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene, and 1,2-Dichloroethylene.
Also used as a solvent, in cleaning and degreasing metals, in
paint removers, varnishes and lacquers, in photographic films, as
an extractant for oils and fats, and in pesticides. Chemical
formula = C2H2Cl4. Molecular weight = 167.85 g/mol.
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As 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane is no longer used much in the United
States, current air emissions predominantly result from its use
as a chemical intermediate during the manufacture of other
chemicals. Low levels have been detected in air. The main
effects of 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane are liver and neurological
effects. Acute (short-term) inhalation exposure to very high
levels of 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane has resulted in effects on
the liver and respiratory, central nervous, and gastrointestinal
systems in humans. Chronic (long-term) inhalation exposure to
1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane in humans results in jaundice and an
enlarged liver, headaches, tremors, dizziness, numbness, and
drowsiness. Animal studies have shown a significantly increased
incidence of liver tumors in mice orally exposed to
1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane. EPA has classified
1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane as a Group C possible human carcinogen.