Dibromomethane

Synonyms

Methane, dibromo-; Methylene bromide; Methylene dibromide; [ChemIDplus] UN2664

Category

Brominated Solvents

Description

Colorless liquid with a sweet, pleasant odor; [CHRIS] Clear colorless liquid; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]

Sources/Uses

Used as a chemical intermediate and a solvent for fats, waxes, and resins; [HSDB] Produced in nature by microalgae commonly found along beaches and coastlines; Used as an intermediate, solvent for chemical manufacture, gauge fluid, and in fire extinguishing fluids; [Reference #1]

Comments

In laboratory studies, animals experienced CNS depression at 2400-2800 ppm and liver and kidney damage after repeated exposures to 1000 ppm. [CHEMINFO] Dichloromethane seldom causes hepatotoxicity "unless exposure is very heavy or agent ingested." [Zimmerman, p. 333] If left on clothes, may cause reddening of skin; [CHRIS] May have effects on nervous system and blood, causing impaired functions, carboxyhemoglobinemia, and lowering of consciousness; Chronic exposure may cause liver and kidney effects; [ICSC] An irritant; Harmful by inhalation; A simple asphyxiant; May cause blood disorders, cardiac irregularities, and CNS depression; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]

Biomedical References

44.4 mm Hg

LC50 (rat) = 40,000 mg/m3/2hr

Explanatory Notes

VP from ChemIDplus;

Acute solvent syndrome

Hepatoxic (a) from occupational exposure (secondary effect) or (b) in animal studies or in humans after ingestion

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:

• Solvents, acute toxic effect