Hexachloroethane is a colorless solid that gradually evaporates when it is exposed to air. It is also called HCE, perchloroethane, and carbon hexachloride. Its vapors smell like camphor. In the United States, about half of the hexachloroethane is used by the
military for smoke-producing devices. It is also used to remove air bubbles in melted
aluminum. Hexachloroethane may be present as an ingredient in some fungicides, insecticides, lubricants, and plastics.
Hexachloroethane does not occur naturally in the environment. It is no longer made in the United States, but it is formed as a by-product in the production of some
chemicals. Some hexachloroethane can be formed by incinerators when materials containing chlorinated hydrocarbons are burned. Hexachloroethane itself does not catch fire easily. Some hexachloroethane can also be formed when chlorine reacts with carbon compounds in drinking water.
Exposure to hexachloroethane can be irritating to the
skin,
nose,
lungs, and
eyes. Hexachloroethane has been found in at least 45 of the 1,416 National Priorities List
sites identified by the
Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA).
See a doctor if you have been harmed by this substance. In addition, it
may be important to
contact an attorney who
can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there
may be
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Source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
See Also
- Toxic & Hazardous Substances
- Cancer
- Kidney & Urinary Tract Disorders
- Liver & Gallbladder Disorders
- Hexachloroethane: Frequently Asked Questions