Methylene Chloride

    Methylene chloride, a toxic chemical that has been a part of our lives for decades, might surprise you with its hidden dangers. While it’s commonly known for its ability to dissolve tough bonds in paint strippers, it also used to be an ingredient in personal care products like deodorants, makeup, and antiperspirants (International Journal of Toxicology, 1988). But times have changed, and with increased research, we now know the true dangers of methylene chloride. In fact, it’s banned in several countries, including the USA (Phillips, 2018). Keep reading to discover the history and risks of this hazardous chemical. 

    Methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane, is commonly used in various household and industrial products, including paint strippers, adhesives, and cleaning agents (International Journal of Toxicology, 1988). You may have come into contact with this chemical without even realizing it. However, this seemingly innocent chemical has a dark side. Methylene chloride has been linked to severe health effects, including headaches, nausea, dizziness, and even death in extreme cases (Phillips, 2018). It has also been classified as a possible carcinogen by several health organizations (Parent, 2005). We have found various alternatives for methylene chloride; however, their speed of paint removal does not compare to that of methylene chloride (Erickson, 2018). 

    Discover the fascinating history of methylene chloride research! It's hard to believe that just 15 years ago, scientists were still skeptical of its carcinogenic effects on humans (International Journal of Toxicology, 1988). But fast forward to today, and the evidence is clear - not only is it causing cancer in rodents, but it's also a threat to human health (Parent, 2005). In 2019, the US government finally took action and banned its use, but if you're in Canada, exercise caution when choosing products (United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2022). Keep yourself safe by avoiding anything that lists methylene chloride as an ingredient.

Exam Questions: 

1. What is the main entryway for methylene chloride into the bloodstream?

2. In 1988, what were the products to which methylene chloride was incorporated as an ingredient? How has that changed compared to the present day?

3. What is the odour of methylene chloride, and what are the potential hazards associated with it?

References

Erickson, E. B. (2018). Replacing methylene chloride in paint strippers. C&EN Global Enterprise. 96 (24). https://cen.acs.org/safety/consumer-safety/Replacing-methylene-chloride-paint-strippers/96/i24

International Journal of Toxicology. (1988). Final report on the safety assessment of methylene chloride. Journal of the American College of Toxicology, 7(6), 741-835. https://doi.org/10.3109/10915818809078710

Parent, A. R. (2005). Methylene chloride. In Encyclopedia of Toxicology (Second Edition). Encyclopedia. https://www-sciencedirect-com.libproxy.mtroyal.ca/science/article/pii/B0123694000006219 

Phillips, J. A. (2018). Methylene chloride. Workplace Health & Safety, 66(2), 108. https://doi.org/10.1177/2165079917736319  

United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2022, July). Final rule on regulation of methylene chloride in paint and coating removal for consumer use. https://www.epa.gov/assessing-and-managing-chemicals-under-tsca/final-rule-regulation-methylene-chloride-paint-and