USESOF ETHYL CHLORIDE (C2H5Cl):
1. Ethyl chloride is a suitable chlorinated solvent in view of its physical and
chemical properties. It is relatively inert, more stable and less toxic than
other chlorinated solvents.
2. It is used as a skin refrigerant. When applied as a fine spray, superficial
tissues become freezed and peripheral nerve endings get insensitive. Finally
spray acts as a local anesthetic agent. (Duration: 1 min)
3. It is used as local anaesthetic before skin biopsy, sport injuries and ear
piercing.
4. It is used as an intermediate in the production of various coatings, films,
plastics and gasoline additives.
5. It is used as aerosol spray propellent, blowing agent in foam packaging and
in production of dyes, pharmaceuticals and other commercial chemicals.
6. It is used in the preparation of ethyl cellulose. Ethyl cellulose is produced
when ethyl chloride reacts with sodium cellulose. Ethyl cellulose resins are
widely used for coating, film forming, binding and enhancing the
performance of different products.
7. Ethyl chloride is used in preparation of styrene. It is obtained when benzene
reacts with ethyl chloride. Styrene is extensively used in the manufacturing
of rubber, plastic, insulation, fiber glass, automobile, boat parts and food
containers.
8. It is also used in the preparation of tetra ethyl lead, when lead-sodium alloy
reacts with ethyl chloride, tetra ethyl lead is produced
9. It is also used as a reactive intermediate in several chemical reactions
Eg. Aluminium polymer catalysts, adhesives
10. It is used as ethylating agent in the manufacturing of dyes and drugs
11. Used as pulp vitality tester in density
