Dichloromethane (DCM) or methylene chloride

Dichloromethane (DCM) or methylene chloride is a volatile, colorless liquid with a chloroform-like odor. DCM is produced when methyl chloride or methane reacts with chlorine at very high temperatures (400–500 °C). DCM is widely used in a variety of industrial settings such as paint stripping, pharmaceutical and paint stripper manufacturing as well as degreasers and metal cleaners. The most common routes of exposure to DCM are inhalation and skin contact. dichloromethane sds is also metabolized by the body into carbon monoxide, which may lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Multiple regulatory agencies (Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) consider DCM a possible human carcinogen (Group B2). The most likely mechanism of methylene chloride toxicity is its ability to increase potassium ion currents in certain types of potassium channels. In humans, DCM can be irritating to the skin and eyes, especially if evaporation is prevented; prolonged exposure may cause chemical burns. Deaths have been reported from accidental inhalation and skin contamination. The main toxic effects of DCM are reversible central nervous system depression (neurophysiological and neurobehavioral disturbances) and carboxyhemoglobin formation, affecting hepatic, renal, cardiovascular and hematological parameters. Spontaneous abortion caused by DCM has been reported in the literature. Ingestion may cause death.
Methylene chloride is a widely used industrial chemical with reported annual atmospheric emissions in the United States of more than 126 million pounds. The main route of exposure of the general population to methylene chloride is through inhalation. Occupational and consumer exposure to methylene chloride is commonly caused by spray paint and exposure to consumer products that contain methylene chloride, such as paint strippers or aerosol cans. Exposure may occur by breathing vapors released from the product or by direct skin contact. Occupational exposure to methylene chloride via the inhalation route provides the greatest exposure, but it can also be absorbed through the skin.