Chloroform

21. (1998)

Chloroform (CHCl3, trichloromethane, CAS 67-66-3) is still used in some Areas of the University. Chloroform affects the cardiovascular system, liver, kidneys, central nervous system and reproductive organs. Although the manner of its use is well controlled, there is one problem to be aware of that may not appear in a Material Safety Data Sheet for chloroform.

Chloroform is commercially stabilised with ethanol (0.6 to 1%) or amylene (60 ppm, 2-methyl-2-butene). This reduces its decomposition to phosgene (Cl2CO, carbonyl chloride). Ethanol is the better stabiliser.

Inhalation of phosgene results in respiratory irritation, causing pulmonary oedema and anoxia (lack of oxygen to the body tissues). The effect of phosgene generated from chloroform was highlighted in a recent report from the University of California. Several people became ill after using a 3 year old bottle of chloroform. Subsequent analysis showed concentrations of 15,000 ppm of phosgene in the head space of the bottle and 1.1% in bulk solution.

Chloroform should be stored as indicated on the container. It should also be treated as a time-sensitive material and stock of more than two years old treated with greater care.

Particular care is required if you are involved in the purification or distillation of chloroform. The concentrations of phosgene will increase quicker in un-stabilised chloroform.

Chloroform should always be used in a fume-cupboard.

For further information contact:
OHS Officer, e-mail: OHS.Officer@anu.edu.au