Perchloroethylene, commonly known as PERC, is a vital chemical used across various industries. This blog post aims to provide an in-depth understanding of what Perchloroethylene is, how it is made, and why Chemtoll is your go-to supplier for this essential chemical in South Africa.
What is Perchloroethylene?
Understanding Perchloroethylene
Perchloroethylene, also known as tetrachloroethylene, is a chlorinated hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C2Cl4. It is a colourless, non-flammable liquid with a characteristic sweet odour. PERC is widely used for its excellent solvent properties, making it indispensable in several industrial applications.
Properties of Perchloroethylene
- Chemical Formula: C2Cl4
- Molecular Weight: 165.83 g/mol
- Boiling Point: 121°C
- Density: 1.622 g/cm³
- Solubility: Insoluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents
Uses of Perchloroethylene
Perchloroethylene is primarily used as a solvent in the dry cleaning industry. Additionally, it is used in the production of fluorinated compounds, as a degreasing agent for metals, and in various other industrial processes.
How is Perchloroethylene Made?
The Manufacturing Process
Perchloroethylene is synthesized through a chemical process involving chlorination and dehydrochlorination of hydrocarbons. The most common methods include the direct chlorination of hydrocarbons or the oxychlorination of ethylene.
1. Direct Chlorination
In this process, hydrocarbons such as methane, ethane, or propane are directly chlorinated to produce a mixture of chlorinated hydrocarbons. This mixture is then subjected to thermal cracking to yield Perchloroethylene.
2. Oxychlorination of Ethylene
The oxychlorination process involves the reaction of ethylene with chlorine gas in the presence of a catalyst. This reaction produces ethylene dichloride, which is then subjected to dehydrochlorination to form Perchloroethylene.
Purification and Quality Control
The crude Perchloroethylene obtained from these processes contains impurities that need to be removed. The purification process typically involves distillation to achieve high purity levels required for industrial applications. Rigorous quality control measures are implemented to ensure that the final product meets industry standards.
Applications of Perchloroethylene
Dry Cleaning Industry
The most notable use of Perchloroethylene is in the dry cleaning industry. PERC’s excellent solvency power makes it highly effective in removing stains and dirt from fabrics without causing damage. It has been the preferred solvent for dry cleaning for decades due to its efficiency and reliability.
Metal Degreasing
Perchloroethylene is widely used as a degreasing agent for metals. It effectively removes oils, greases, and other contaminants from metal surfaces, ensuring they are clean for further processing or assembly. Its non-flammable nature makes it a safer alternative to other solvents.
Chemical Intermediates
PERC is also used as an intermediate in the production of fluorinated compounds, including refrigerants and other chemicals. Its stability and reactivity make it suitable for various chemical reactions, contributing to the manufacture of a wide range of products.
Other Industrial Applications
In addition to the above applications, PERC is used in the formulation of adhesives, coatings, and cleaning products. Its versatility and effectiveness make it a valuable component in many industrial processes.
Why Choose Chemtoll for Your Perchloroethylene Needs?
Chemtoll: Your Trusted Chemical Supplier
Chemtoll is a leading supplier of chemicals in South Africa, known for its commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Here’s why you should choose Chemtoll for your Perchloroethylene requirements:
1. High-Quality Products
At Chemtoll, we ensure that our Perchloroethylene meets the highest standards of purity and quality. Our rigorous quality control processes guarantee that you receive a product that is safe and effective for your applications.
2. Bulk Supply Capabilities
We understand the needs of various industries for bulk chemical supplies. Chemtoll can provide Perchloroethylene in large quantities, ensuring you have a steady and reliable supply for your business operations.
3. Timely Delivery
Our efficient logistics network ensures that your orders are delivered promptly to your premises. We prioritize timely delivery to minimize any disruptions to your business activities.
4. Expert Support
Our team of experienced professionals is available to provide technical support and answer any questions you may have about our products. We are committed to helping you find the right solutions for your needs.
Environmental Responsibility
At Chemtoll, we are committed to sustainable and environmentally responsible practices. We adhere to strict environmental regulations and continuously seek ways to reduce our environmental footprint.
PERC From Chemtoll To Your Premises
Perchloroethylene is a versatile and essential chemical with a wide range of applications. Whether you need it for dry cleaning, metal degreasing, chemical intermediates, or other industrial uses, Chemtoll is your trusted supplier in South Africa. With our commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction, you can be confident in choosing Chemtoll for all your Perchloroethylene needs.
For more information or to place an order, contact Chemtoll today and experience the difference of working with a top-tier chemical supplier.
