Yes, methylene chloride and methylene dichloride refer to the same chemical compound, with the molecular formula CH₂Cl₂. They are simply different names used interchangeably in scientific literature and industry. Other common names include dichloromethane (DCM), reflecting its two chlorine atoms bonded to a single carbon atom.
Key Properties:
- Appearance: Colorless, volatile liquid
- Odor: Mildly sweet
- Boiling Point: 39.6°C
- Density: 1.33 g/cm³
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, highly soluble in most organic solvents
Methylene Chloride Use
DCM's volatility and its ability to dissolve a wide range of organic compounds make it a valuable solvent for many chemical processes. It is commonly used as a paint stripper and a degreaser. In the food industry, methylene chloride has been used to decaffeinate coffee and tea, as well as to prepare extracts of hops and other flavorings. Its volatility also makes it useful as an aerosol spray propellant and as a blowing agent for polyurethane foams.
In addition, DCM is used in the garment printing industry for removing heat-sealed garment transfers, and its volatility is exploited in novelty items such as bubble lights and jukebox displays.
Click here to get the latest global Dichloromethane(DCM)CAS 75-09-2 market prices for 2026.
