HCFC 141b has been developed as a substitute for the fully
halogenated chlorofluorocarbons, mainly for use as a blowing
agent for polyurethane and polyisocyanate insulating
foams and as a solvent in electronic and other precision
cleaning applications. It is viewed as an interim compound,
and production will be phased out beginning in 2003.
Colorless liquid at ambient conditions.
Dichlorofluoroethane may be incompatible with strong oxidizing and reducing agents. May be incompatible with some amines, nitrides, azo/diazo compounds, alkali metals, and epoxides. An explosion occurred when an emptied drum of Dichlorofluoroethane was cut into by a grinder; may be more flammable than once thought.
A 2 year inhalation study was
conducted during which four groups of 80 male and 80
female rats were exposed to levels of 0, 1500, 5000, and
15,000–20,000 ppm, 6 h/day, 5 days/week. The high
exposure level was increased from 15,000 to 20,000 ppm
after 4 months since no signs of toxicity were seen at
15,000 ppm. At the end of 2 years, an increased incidence
of benign Leydig cell tumors and Leydig cell hyperplasia was
seen in the male rats 5000 and 20,000 ppm, but not at
1500 ppm. These tumors are common in the aging rat and
did not follow an exposure related pattern. They are not
considered to be a risk factor for humans. No other
treatment related effects were seen.
