Parachlorobenzotrifluoride is a synthetic halogenated organic chemical compound with the molecular formula C7H4ClF3. It is frequently abbreviated PCBTF. Parachlorobenzotrifluoride is a colorless liquid with a distinct aromatic odor. PCBTF has been commercially-produced since the 1960s, initially as an intermediate in the production of other petrochemicals. But since the 1990s, it has been primarily used as a solvent.[1]
History
Occidental Chemical Corporation was a leading producer and sold it as part of its Oxsol® product line, specifically under the brand name of Oxsol 100.[2] Occidental Chemical Corporation sold the OXSOL line to an Israeli company, Makhteshim Agan Industries, Ltd., in 2002.[3]
Uses
PCBTF is increasingly used as a xylene replacement in cleaners, thinners, and other aromatic hydrocarbon blends.[1]
The substance is used as an ink solvent in the printing industry. Parachlorobenzotrifluoride has a high capacity for dissolving many inks used by the printing industry. In most cases, up to 22 grams of ink can be dissolved in 20 grams of PCBTF.[citation needed] An added benefit is that parachlorobenzotrifluoride dissolves most inks faster than toluene.
Health and Environmental effects
Health effects:
Points of entry: eyes, ingestion, inhalation, skin.
Target organs: central nervous system, kidneys, liver.
In the troposphere, PCBTF has an estimated half-life of 67 days. It is transformed by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals to give mainly 2-chloro-5-trifluoromethylphenol.[1]
Regulation
PCBTF currently has VOC Exempt status from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.[5] However, California's Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) has adopted inhalation risk factors for PCBTF as of June 2019, which could have implications for its ongoing VOC Exempt status.[6][7]