ETHYLENE

DICHLORIDE
(EDC)
HANDBOOK

OXYCHEM
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
11/2014

Dallas-based Occidental Chemical Corporation is a leading North American

manufacturer of basic chemicals, vinyls and performance chemicals directly and
through various affiliates (collectively, OxyChem). OxyChem is also North America's
largest producer of sodium chlorite.
As a Responsible Care company, OxyChem's global commitment to safety and the
environment goes well beyond compliance. OxyChem's Health, Environment and
Safety philosophy is a positive motivational force for our employees, and helps create a
strong culture for protecting human health and the environment. Our risk management
programs and methods have been, and continue to be, recognized as some of the
industry's best.
OxyChem offers an effective combination of industry expertise, experience, on line
business tools, quality products and exceptional customer service. As a member of the
Occidental Petroleum Corporation family, OxyChem represents a rich history of
experience, top-notch business acumen, and sound, ethical business practices.

Table of Contents

Page

Introduction to Ethylene Dichloride ............................................................................................................ 3

Manufacturing .................................................................................................................................................. 3
Ethylene Dichloride (EDC) Uses ................................................................................................................. 4
Specifications and Product Grades ................................................................................................................. 4
Safety and First Aid ....................................................................................................................................... 4
Hazards ........................................................................................................................................................... 4
Respiratory Protection ..................................................................................................................................... 5
Safety Precautions .......................................................................................................................................... 6
First Aid ........................................................................................................................................................... 7
Toxicity ............................................................................................................................................................ 8
Regulatory ...................................................................................................................................................... 8
US Environmental Protection Agency ............................................................................................................. 8
US Food and Drug Administration................................................................................................................... 9
World Health Organization .............................................................................................................................. 9
Handling and Storage ................................................................................................................................... 9
Shipping ........................................................................................................................................................... 9
Barge ..................................................................................................................................................... 9
Tank Trailers ........................................................................................................................................ 10
Tank Cars ............................................................................................................................................ 10
Storage & Equipment .................................................................................................................................... 11
Maintenance of Storage Facilities ................................................................................................................. 14
Spills and Precautions ................................................................................................................................... 15
Technical Data ............................................................................................................................................. 16
Product Sampling .......................................................................................................................................... 16
Physical Properties ........................................................................................................................................ 16
Graphs .......................................................................................................................................................... 17
Density v. Temperature ................................................................................................................................. 17
Vapor Pressure v. Temperature .................................................................................................................... 18
Solubility of Water in EDC v. Temperature ................................................................................................... 19

MANUFACTURING
The chemical compound 1,2-dichloroethane,
commonly known as ethylene dichloride (EDC), is a
chlorinated hydrocarbon, mainly used to produce
vinyl chloride monomer (VCM, chloroethene), the
major precursor for PVC production. It is a colorless
liquid with a chloroform-like odor.
Ethylene
dichloride is also used generally as an intermediate
for other organic chemical compounds, and as a
solvent.
Ethylene dichloride is produced through the iron(III)
chloride catalyzed reaction of ethene (ethylene) and
chlorine.

In subsequent reactions, notably to vinyl chloride

(chloroethene), hydrogen chloride is formed and reused in a copper(II) chloride catalyzed reaction, to
also produce 1,2-dichloroethane from ethene and
oxygen.
H2C=CH2 + 2 HCl + O2 Cl-CH2-CH2-Cl + H2O
OxyChem uses both reactions to manufacture EDC,
the first is a direct chlorination reaction (see Figure
1) and the second is an oxychlorination reaction (see
Figure 2). Many licenses for variations of each type
of process exist today. Figure 1 and 2 are general
process descriptions for each type of reaction.

H2C=CH2 + Cl2 Cl-CH2-CH2-Cl

Figure 1: Direct Chlorination Reaction

Figure 2: Oxychlorination Reaction

products in food, feed, or pharmaceutical related
applications and to determine whether appropriate
regulatory requirements are being met. OxyChem
Technical Grade EDC meets the Military
Specification MIL-D-10662-D which was replaced by
ASTM D5960-03. OxyChem also manufactures
EDC at its Convent, LA plant. Product manufactured
at Convent, LA is marketed as Finished Grade
Ethylene Dichloride with a purity of greater than
99.9% by weight.

ETHYLENE DICHLORIDE USES

EDC is used primarily as a raw material in the
manufacture of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM). The
vinyl chloride, in turn is used to manufacture polyvinyl
chloride (PVC) resin. EDC is also used as an
intermediate in the manufacture of chlorinated and
fluorinated compounds.
EDC has been used as a solvent in the textile, metal
cleaning and adhesive industries.

OxyChem's Technical Services Department can

provide more product information. Call or write the

SPECIFICATIONS AND PRODUCT

GRADES

Technical Services Department

OxyChem
P.O. Box 12283, Wichita, KS 67277-2283
800-733-1165, Ext.1.

OxyChem produces and markets Technical Grade

Ethylene Dichloride at the Geismar, LA facility with a
minimum purity of 99.9% by weight. Material
produced and shipped from OxyChems Geismar, LA
plant conforms to the chemical testing requirements
of several industrial standards such as the General
Use EDC for the ACS Specifications for Reagent
th
Chemicals, 10 Edition; the Food Chemicals Codex,
th
8 Edition. The manufacturing process for EDC
does not incorporate all of the measures specified in
the Food and Drug Administrations current Good
Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).
It is the
responsibility of the user to assess their use of EDC

SAFETY AND FIRST AID

Hazards
EDC is a flammable, toxic chemical and should be
handled with extreme care. Personnel should be
properly trained in the handling of EDC and should
always wear the proper protective equipment when
working with, and around EDC.
All users

overexposure due to the inhalation of vapors above

the OSHA PEL.
The Occupational Safety and Health Association
(OSHA) has established Permissible Exposure
Limits (PEL) of 50 ppm. The PEL is the allowable
average concentration to which workers may be
exposed, 8 hours per day, five days a week, without
adverse effects. OSHA has also established a Short
Term Exposure Limit (STEL) of 100 ppm ceiling for
EDC, which is a 15 minute average exposure that
should not be exceeded. Also OSHA has established
a Peak (5 minutes in any 3 hour period) of 200 ppm.
Likewise, the American Conference of Governmental
Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) has established
Threshold Limit Values (TLV) of 10 ppm for this
product. Work areas employing EDC should be
isolated and contained. A local exhaust should
provide adequate ventilation to limit solvent vapors to
below exposure limits.
It is recommended that employees be provided with
and required to use chemical impervious clothing,
gloves, boots, splash proof goggles and other
appropriate protective clothing necessary to prevent
any possibility of skin contact with EDC. Material
types which may be considered for this service
include fire resistant clothing, Barricade, Teflon,
Viton, PE/EVAL, CPF3, Responder, and Tychem.
Face shields can augment protection provided by
splash-proof goggles and safety glasses, but are not
intended to replace these safety appliances. (See
Figure 3)

Respiratory Protection
OSHA requires that employees using respirators
should be properly fitted and trained in their use.
Basically there are 3 types of respirators:
1. Escape: In areas where the unexpected release
of EDC vapors may lead to potentially dangerous
exposure, appropriate escape respirators should be
carried by or be readily accessible to each employee.
The most common respirator used for this purpose
is the mouthpiece respirator.
This respirator
contains a single cartridge with a mouthpiece and
nose clip. Employees should only use this respirator
when escape times are short and airborne
concentrations of EDC vapors are low. (See Figure
4)

Figure 3: Personal Protective Equipment

should read the proper Material Safety Data Sheet

(MSDS) before handling EDC. The primary health
hazard associated with the use of EDC is

conditions should be made to determine the

appropriate cartridge/canister replacement schedule.
3. Self-contained Breathing Apparatus:
Selfcontained breathing apparatus (SCBA) can provide
respiratory protection in an oxygen-deficient
environment and in situations where unknown
concentrations of EDC vapors are present. The
SCBA can also provide protection in emergency
situations. (See Figure 6)

Figure 4: Mouthpiece Respirator

(Escape Only)

The SCBA is an atmosphere-supplying respirator for

which the breathing air source is designed to be
carried by the user (OSHA definition). A full-face
mask is always used with this type of apparatus.
OSHA requires that when wearing the SCBA in an
Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH)
atmosphere, the SCBA must be operated in the
pressure demand mode and be certified by NIOSH
for a minimum service life of thirty minutes. Escape
SCBA devices are commonly used with full face
pieces or hoods and, depending on the supply of air,
are usually rated as 3 to 60 minute units.

2. Air Purifying Respirators:

Air purifying
respirators contain cartridges or canisters of
absorbent or reactive material to remove harmful
gases from breathing air. These respirators are
available as either half face or full-face units. For
EDC service, use a cartridge or canister designed for
EDC service. (See Figure 5)
Where vapor concentration exceeds or is likely to
exceed OSHA or NIOSH recommended Exposure
Levels, a cartridge or canister respirator should be
used. NIOSH has set a 1 ppm eight hour time
weighted average for EDC and a 2 ppm fifteen
minute short term exposure limit. When working in
environments where airborne concentrations are
irritating to the eyes, full-face piece respirators
should be used. Cartridge or canister respirators are
strictly air-purifying devices and must never be used
in an oxygen deficient atmosphere (less than 19.5%
oxygen by volume), in environments immediately
dangerous to life or health (IDLH), or areas
containing unknown concentrations of EDC the
NIOSH limit is set at 50 ppm.

Figure 6: Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus

OSHA requires that all respirators must be NIOSH
approved and shall use breathing gas containers
marked in accordance with the NIOSH respirator
certification standard, 42 CFR part 84. For further
information on regulations pertaining to respirator
equipment, see 29 CFR 1910.134 and 30 CFR
57.5005
For additional information see DHHS
(NIOSH) Publication No. 2005-100, NIOSH
Respirator Selection Logic 2004 or Publication No.
87-116, NIOSH Guide to Industrial Respiratory
Protection.

Figure 5: Full Face Air Purifying Respirator

It is important to remember that cartridges and
canisters have a limited service life. Conditions such
as humidity, chemical concentrations in the
workplace, other chemicals in the workplace, and
frequency of use will affect cartridge and canister
service life. Therefore, an evaluation of workplace

Safety Precautions
In the absence of air and water, EDC is stable to
160C (320F). In contact with air or water it is

subject to very slow hydrolysis or oxidation, either

reaction offers the possibility of the formation of trace
amounts of HCl. This can lead to discoloration in
storage tanks. EDC can be stored in vessels made
of common materials of construction, except
aluminum, magnesium, zinc, and their alloys.

First Aid
Eye Contact - Direct contact of EDC with the eyes
will result in pain, watering, and inflammation. To
prevent eye contact, protective eye wear (such as
splash goggles, a full face shield, or safety glasses
with side shields) must be worn. If eyes come in
contact with EDC, hold the eyelids apart and flush
the eye gently with a large amount of lukewarm
water for at least 15 minutes, forcibly holding eyelids
apart to ensure complete irrigation of all eye and lid
tissues. Washing eyes within several seconds is
essential to achieve maximum effectiveness. GET
MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY.

Avoid contact with pure oxygen, strong alkalis, alkali

metals, open flames and welding arcs, or other high
temperature sources which induce thermal
decomposition to irritating and corrosive HCl.
EDC is extremely flammable with a Tag Closed
Cup flash point of 13C (55.4F). This solvent must
be stored in a National Fire Prevention Association
(NFPA) Class I area. Proper grounding and bonding
procedures should be followed.

Skin Contact - Prolonged exposure of the skin to

EDC will remove the skins natural oils, causing the
affected area to become red, rough and dry. If
exposure continues, the EDC may produce a burning
sensation. Prolonged contact with EDC can cause
contact dermatitis. To prevent irritation, wear
protective clothing (including gloves) when working
with EDC. If skin comes in contact with EDC,
immediately wash exposed skin with plenty of water
while removing contaminated clothing, jewelry and
shoes. Wash clothing and thoroughly clean shoes
before reuse.
GET MEDICAL ATTENTION
IMMEDIATELY.

Dry chemical, carbon dioxide, foam, water fog or

spray should be used to extinguish fires. Water may
be ineffective, but should be used to keep fireexposed containers cool.
Safety showers and eye wash fountains should be
located in the immediate work area and clearly
marked. These units should be tested on a regular
basis. Portable or temporary systems are available.
Every precaution should be taken to ensure that a
suitable system is in place and operational before
handling EDC. Only trained and properly protected
personnel should be allowed to enter areas where
EDC is present. ANSI Standard Z358.1 contains
placement and performance criteria for emergency
eyewash and shower equipment.

Inhalation Overexposure to vapors may result in

dizziness, drowsiness, depression, headache,
nausea, mental dullness, loss of coordination, or in
extreme cases, death.
To avoid overexposure to EDC vapors, monitor the
EDC vapor concentration in the work place. If vapors
are found above the OSHA PEL, install engineering
controls (such as localized ventilation) to reduce
EDC vapor concentrations to a safe operating level.
In areas where the concentrations of EDC vapors
are either unknown or cannot be maintained below
the limits, workers must be equipped with NIOSH
approved respirators as per the OSHA Respiratory
Protection standard.

Before entering tanks or opening pipelines that have

contained EDC, they should be completely emptied
and checked for vapors before entering. Do not
enter a confined space (which includes tanks or pits)
without following proper entry procedures such as 29
CFR 1910.146.
Good housekeeping practices are important where
ethylene dichloride is used. If a ethylene dichloride
leak occurs, evacuate the area and eliminate all
ignition sources. Response personnel should wear
self-contained
breathing
air
and protective
equipment to prevent contact with vapor, liquid or
hazardous decomposition products.

If EDC is inhaled, remove individual to

uncontaminated area. Give artificial respiration if not
breathing. If breathing is difficult, oxygen should be
administered by qualified personnel. If respiration or
pulse has stopped, have a trained person administer
Basic
Life
Support
(Cardio-Pulmonary
Resuscitation/Automatic External Defibrillator) and
CALL
FOR
EMERGENCY
SERVICES
IMMEDIATELY.

In all cases, explosion-proof ventilation should be

provided to keep concentrations below explosive
limits.
See Page 15 of this handbook for specific
recommendations on spills and precautions.

Ingestion Accidental ingestion of EDC may result

in irritation of the gastrointestinal tract, nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea, unconsciousness and death.
EDC is a liver and kidney poison. Proper labeling,
handling and storage of EDC will reduce the
likelihood of accidental ingestion. If ingestion occurs,
never give anything by mouth to an unconscious or
convulsive person. If swallowed, do not induce
vomiting. If vomiting occurs spontaneously, keep
airway clear. Do not give fluids. GET MEDICAL
ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY.

if swallowed, nausea, vomiting, central nervous

system effects, absorption may occur
EDC is classified by NTP as an Anticipated Human
Carcinogen; and by IARC as a Human Inadequate
Evidence, Animal Sufficient Evidence, Group 2B
carcinogen.

REGULATORY
The following is a summary of regulations and
sources that may pertain to EDC.

NOTE TO PHYSICIAN: This material is an

aspiration hazard. Risk of aspiration must be
weighed against possible toxicity of the material (see
ingestion) when determining whether to induce
emesis or to perform gastric lavage. This material
sensitizes
the
heart
to
the
effects
of
sympathomimetic amines. Epinephrine and other
sympathomimetic drugs may initiate cardiac
arrhythmias in individuals exposed to this material.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Clean Air Act: EDC is included on the Clean Air
Act, Section 112(b) list of Hazardous Air Pollutants.
http://www.epa.gov/air/caa/
Clean Water Act: Water Quality Criteria
Based on fish/shellfish and water
consumption =0.38 g/L
Based on fish/shellfish
consumption only =37g/L
http://www.epa.gov/water/
Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation, and Liability Act: Releases of EDC
in excess of the Reportable Quantity of 100 pounds
must be reported.
http://www.epa.gov/lawsregs/laws/cercla.html
Emergency Planning and Community Right-toknow Act: EDC is a listed substance that is subject
to reporting requirements under Section 313 of the
act. These reports are often called Toxic Release
Inventory (TRI) Reports.
http://www.epa.gov/lawsregs/laws/epcra.html
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
Characteristic Toxic Hazardous Waste
code D028. The code applies if waste
contains 0.5 mg/L or more EDC as
determined by the Toxicity Characteristic
Leaching Procedure.
Listed Hazardous Waste Codes in which
listing is based wholly or partly on EDC
include: U077, F024, F025, K018, K019,
K020, K029, K030, and K096
http://www.epa.gov/lawsregs/laws/rcra.html
Safe Drinking Water ActMaximum Contaminant
Level (MCL)= 0.005 mg/L
http://www.epa.gov/lawsregs/laws/sdwa.html
Toxic Substances Control ActEDC is subject to
an enforceable consent agreement.
http://www.epa.gov/lawsregs/laws/tsca.html

Traumatic Shock - Whenever injured persons are

being cared for, the person administering first aid
should watch for signs of traumatic shock.
Traumatic shock may follow serious injury and is a
depressed condition of many body functions due to
inadequate blood circulation throughout most of the
body. Signs of shock are pale, moist, cool skin;
shallow and irregular breathing; and weak pulse.
Beads of perspiration may be noted about the lips,
forehead, palms, and armpits. The patient may
become nauseated.
To treat shock, keep the patient lying down and as
warm and comfortable as possible. Raise the
patient's feet eight to twelve inches unless there is
head injury, breathing difficulty, or if the patient
complains of added pain.

TOXICITY
Up-to-date toxicity information is available from the
Material Safety Data Sheets. Read the MSDS before
use.
The OxyChem Technical Service and Product
Stewardship organizations, as well as many trade
associations, including the Chemical Manufacturers
Association (CMA), have trained personnel to
answer questions about the toxicity of this product.
Chronic exposure can produce central nervous
system effects, kidney damage, liver damage, and
cancer. Short term exposure can be harmful or fatal

barge, and vessel unloading connections are

typically equipped with 6 or 8-inch connections.
Check to make sure that the dock-side transfer
lines and connections are appropriately sized to
match those of the shipping vessel. If the
receiving tank contained another product be sure
that it is clean, dry and odor free and check to
make sure the dockside storage tank is empty
and has been purged with nitrogen to a dew
point of at least -40C (-40F) and to an oxygen
concentration of 10 volume percent or less.

Food and Drug Administration

EDC has a maximum permissible level in bottled
water =0.005 ppm
http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodIngredientsPackaging/
default.htm
World Health Organization
EDC is subject to the Prior Informed Consent
(PIC) Convention. The designation was based on
pesticide uses, not on industrial uses. According to
the PIC Convention, export of a chemical can only
take place with the prior informed consent of the
importing Party.
http://www.who.int/en

3. Check all lines to make sure they are clean, dry,

and free of contamination. The vessels pump
should be inspected to ensure it has the proper
gasket and packing materials, and that it is
clean, dry, and free of contamination. Make sure
the pump has been checked by the Coast Guard
and has passed inspection. Inspect transfer lines
and hoses from the ship to the dock to the
manifold, ensuring all lines are clean, dry, free of
contamination,
and
constructed
of
the
appropriate EDC resistant materials.

These summaries also do not address any similar

state or local regulations, some of which may impose
additional or different obligations from those imposed
by federal regulations. All users are responsible for
a complete review of the applicable regulations
pertaining to their own operation.

HANDLING AND STORAGE

4. Have the surveyor sample the vessels tank and

check for appearance, color, moisture content,
and specific gravity. Sampling should only be
accomplished with a closed system that has
built-in capabilities to handle vents, provide
nitrogen, process unused liquid volume and
results in a sample in a closed container.

Shipping
Barge Unloading
Only properly trained personnel should be
involved in unloading operations. An operator
must be present throughout the unloading
procedure. Written procedures must be readily
available. A safety shower and eyewash must be
readily accessible. The unloading area must be
adequately lighted. All DOT regulations in CFR,
Title 49 must be obeyed.

5. After the surveyor has verified that the product is

within specification requirements, connect the
dock-side unloading line to the ships manifold.
6. Establish an electrical ground for the dock side
manifold, storage tank, and unloading lines.
7. Ensure that workers involved in the unloading
procedures are fitted with the proper safety
equipment including safety shoes, hard hats,
gloves, protective glasses or face shield, and the
appropriate respiratory equipment. Only properly
trained personnel should be involved in
unloading operations. An operator must be
present throughout the unloading procedure.

1. Barges and vessels should be docked at a Coast

Guard approved water front facility equipped with
dock-side unloading lines. Before unloading,
check to ensure all applicable parties (Coast
Guard, state regulatory agencies, etc.) have
been notified and all paperwork is correct and
up-to-date. Once docked, check to ensure the
vessel is properly moored. Do not begin
transferring product until all security inspections
have been performed by the appropriate
authorities (Coast Guard, DOT, Shipping
Authority or Marine Inspection, etc.).

8. It is recommended and may be required by law

to connect the vents from the storage tank and
the vessels tank together to reduce vapor
emissions to the atmosphere. If this is not
possible, supply dry nitrogen make-up to the
vapor space of the vessels tank and vent the
storage tank to an appropriate emission control
system.

2. Verify that the receiving lines and tank are

properly labeled, and that there is sufficient
volume to hold the delivered product. Ship,

4. Verify the tank trucks or tank cars contents by

sampling or check the placards, bill of lading,
and certificate of analysis. Verify that the
receiving tank and lines are properly labeled,
and that the tank has sufficient volume to hold
the delivered product.

9. Open the appropriate valves start the pump and

begin unloading.
10. When one foot of product has been unloaded,
stop unloading and have the surveyor obtain a
sample from the storage tank and again test for
appearance, color, moisture content and specific
gravity. If the product is within specification
range, finish unloading the product. If the
product
does
not
meet
specification
requirements, call OxyChem Customer Service.
11. After all the product has been unloaded, shut off
the pump, then shut off the valve on the suction
side of the pump. Purge the transfer lines free
of EDC by blowing the lines clear, with nitrogen.
12. Close the storage tank inlet valve. Disconnect
the unloading line at the ships manifold, then at
the dock manifold. Hoses with couplings that
automatically close upon being uncoupled are
recommended.

Figure 7: Tank Truck or Tank Car Top Unloading

Diagram

13. Have the surveyor obtain another sample from

the dock side storage tank, and have it analyzed
for each specification item to certify the tanks
contents.
TANK TRAILER or TANK CAR UNLOADING
Figure 8: Tank Truck or Tank Car Bottom Unloading
Diagram

Only properly trained personnel should be

involved in unloading operations. An operator
must be present throughout the unloading
procedure. Written procedures must be readily
available, and followed.
A safety shower and eyewash must be readily
accessible. The unloading area must be
adequately lighted. All DOT regulations in CFR,
Title 49 must be obeyed.

5. Check all transfer lines and hoses to make sure

they are clean, dry, and free of any
contamination. Whenever possible, use pumps
and flexible hoses dedicated to EDC service.
Tank trucks can be provided with their own
pumps upon request and several sections of
chemically resistant hoses. Verify that they are
compatible with the product received. The size
and location of the valves and/or outlets will
differ somewhat from truck to truck. Inspect all
connections and the pump to ensure they
contain the proper gasket material and packing,
and that they are clean, dry and free of
contamination. Tank cars have valves on the
top of the car under the dome cover.

1. Tank trucks or Tank cars containing OxyChem

EDC should be located on a level, paved surface
in a designated unloading area.
2. All unloading and receiving areas for EDC
should be surrounded by total containment for
the control of potential spills and leaks. Where
large scale containment (i.e., diking) is not
practical, drip pans or other suitable containers
must be placed under connections in the event
of a leak.

6. Connect one section of the 2-inch flexible hose

to the tank trucks 2-inch bottom or rear
unloading valve and to the suction side of the
pump. If using the tank trucks pump, connect
another section of the hose from the pressure
side of the pump to the storage tank or
permanent unloading line.
Connect the

3. Set hand brakes and wheel chocks, and

establish an electrical ground for the tank truck
or tank car, unloading lines, pump, and storage
container.

10

11. If the tank trucks pump was used to unload the

container, close the valve on the pressure side
of the pump, then close the tank inlet valve or
the valve at the end of the dedicated unloading
line. Disconnect the flexible hose and collect
any EDC remaining in a suitable container.

unloading line to the liquid valve connection at

the manway on the tank car and connect return
vapor line to the vapor valve connection on tank
car. Check to make sure all connections are
secure.

Figure 9: Truck Trailer Rear Product Outlet

7. Ensure that workers involved in the unloading
procedures are fitted with the proper safety
equipment including safety shoes, hard hats
gloves, protective glasses or safety shield, and
the appropriate respiratory equipment. Only
properly trained personnel should be involved in
unloading operations. An operator must be
present throughout the unloading procedure.
8. Release any pressure in the trailer or car by
slowly and carefully opening one of the safety
vents on top of the trailer or car. EDC vapors
should be vented through an emission control
system during unloading. Whenever possible,
connect the vents from the storage container
and the shipping vessel allowing them to breath
the same vapor space, thereby eliminating vapor
emissions to the atmosphere.

Figure 10: Typical Dome Valve Arrangement

12. Reseal the tank truck or tank car by closing the
safety vent. Replace any caps that may have
been used to keep the valves clean. Remove
hand brakes and wheel chocks before releasing
the trailer or tank car.

9. Open the storage tank inlet valve, followed by

the tank trucks or tank cars unloading valve.
Turn on the pump and begin transferring
product. At the same time, have another
operator check all connections for any sign of
leaks.

Pressure Unloading
Tank trucks or tank cars containing OxyChem EDC
may also be pressure unloaded. Nitrogen (dew point
less than -40C/-40F) should be used to pressure
offload moisture sensitive EDC. EDC should not be
pressure off loaded with air due to its flammable
characteristics.

10. After the tank truck or tank car is empty (or the
pump can no longer remove EDC), shut off the
pump, close the tank inlet valve, then close the
trailers or cars unloading valve. Disconnect the
flexible 2-inch unloading line from the trailer or
tank car and drain as much EDC as possible.
Disconnect the flexible line to the suction side of
the pump, and collect any dripping in a suitable
container. Close the valve on the pressure side
of the pump, and disconnect the hose.

Storage & Equipment

Written procedures detailing requirements for proper
handling, safety equipment, first aid training,
unloading and loading procedures are good practice
and in many cases, required by law. They should
include detailed instructions for handling and
reporting spills.

11

Considerable care should be taken when transferring

EDC to maintain high product quality. These same
careful practices will ensure the health and safety of
workers, and ensure that no EDC is allowed to
escape into the air, soil or water.

All storage tanks should be diked to contain the tank

contents in the event of a spill or tank rupture. They
should be large enough to contain the tanks volume,
and an additional appropriate volume as a safety
factor. (Containment volumes and diking
requirements are often defined and mandated by
individual states and localities.
Regulations
must be reviewed prior to construction.) Dikes
may be constructed of concrete or concrete treated
with a EDC resistant epoxy-phenolic sealant. Where
diking does not apply, EDC resistant buckets or
other appropriate portable spill containers should be
used.

An above ground tank must be used whenever a

large volume of EDC is to be stored at a customer or
terminal site. Storage tanks should be large enough
to contain a minimum of 150% of the normal delivery
volume.
Storage tanks previously used to contain other
products may be used for storage, but must be
thoroughly cleaned, water tested, drained and dried
prior to being placed in EDC service. New tanks
should be prepared in the same manner. Since
water testing is not always sufficient to detect small
liquid or vapor leaks, the tank should be monitored
closely during the initial filling with EDC to check for
leaks not detected during water testing. A halide
meter (or equivalent) should be used for monitoring.
It is recommended that the halide meter be used as
part of a routine maintenance program.
Storage tanks may be mounted horizontally or
vertically. Storage tanks used for EDC should meet
the American Petroleum Institute (API) Standard
650, Welded Tanks for Oil Storage; API standard
620, Design & Construction of Large, Welded, Lowpressure Storage Tanks; ASME Section VIII, or other
suitable design and fabrication standards. All local
regulations concerning above ground storage tanks
should be reviewed and all permits obtained before
installing a bulk storage system.
Bulk storage containers should be constructed of
mild, carbon, or stainless steel. Do not use
aluminum as a material of construction for any
wetted metal parts. Storage tanks should not be
constructed of, nor contain, any non-compatible
plastic components.

Figure 11: Storage Tank diagrams

The storage tanks exterior should be cleaned,

primed and painted with a white or aluminum colored
paint to aid in keeping the tank and its contents cool.

Manways
Manways on tanks are necessary for access to the
tank for inspection and cleaning. Two manways, 24
inches in diameter, are desirable. One manway
should be located on top of the tank, while the
second should be positioned on the side near the
base for empty tank inspection and clean out
procedures.

Storage Tank Pads or Saddles

Saddles used to support horizontal tanks may be
constructed of reinforced concrete or steel. The
design of the concrete pad or saddle foundation (if
horizontal) should be based on at least the total
weight of the tank filled with EDC.

Piping
Carbon steel is the material of choice for piping.
Transfer pipes are typically 2-inch in diameter, but
may be as large as 6-8 inches for barge and vessel

Dikes

12

deliveries. Fittings may be carbon steel or stainless

steel, and may be threaded, flanged or welded.
Threaded piping is only recommended for sizes less
than 3/4 in diameter. It is essential that the pipe be
threaded two full turns before applying threading
compound or Teflon tape to eliminate the possibility
of contaminating the interior of the pipe. All pipes
should be free of oils and any other contaminants
prior to being placed in service.

An emergency shut-off valve should be located at

the outlet of the vessel feeding the pump.
Meters
A meter of Hatellow C, mild or stainless steel
construction with PTFE packing should be used with
EDC. For best results, it should also contain an air
eliminator, strainer, and temperature compensator.
EDC meters must not be constructed of any
reactive metals such as aluminum, zinc or
magnesium alloys.

Drain Lines
Storage tanks should be equipped with a flanged
and valved outlet drain at the floor level to allow the
tank complete drainage if necessary. This outlet
should be located such that it can be tied into a
pump. Since this outlet is rarely used, the valve
should be plugged and equipped with a locking
system to prevent any accidental releases.

Tank Level Indication

Several gauging methods are used to determine the
EDC volume inside storage tanks. Typically dP
cells, sonic, or a float with electronic read out are
used.
Electrical Ground
An electrical ground line is a required safety feature
that provides a point of discharge for any build-up of
static electricity from pumping dry EDC.

Outlet Line
An outlet line for normal EDC withdrawal should be
located 3-4 inches above the tank floor. It should be
tied into the drier-filter pump system. This piping
system ensures that clean, dry EDC can be loaded
without duplication of equipment. A safety valve
should be provided between the tank and the pump
as a means for shutting off the flow of EDC should a
problem arise with the pump.

Hoses
Recommended materials of construction include
braided
or
seamless
stainless
steel,
polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or Teflon), and some
grades of Viton. If a composition other than
stainless steel or Teflon is used, it must first be
tested to ensure compatibility with EDC.

Valves
Ball, gate, globe or plug valves are suitable for use
with EDC. Construction may be steel. Ball valves
should have monel balls and stems; seats should be
carbon filled PTFE, and globe valves should have
13% chrome trim and hard-faced Stellite seats.
Valve stems may be packed with PTFE or graphite
impregnated PTFE. Ball, gate or plug valves are
generally preferred where full line flow is desired.
Globe valves are used where throttling is necessary.

Gaskets
Gaskets used in the service of EDC may be
constructed of PTFE envelope gasket material or
GRAFOIL. If a composition differing from those
mentioned above is to be used, it must first be tested
with the EDC to ensure compatibility.

Pumps
Pumps may be either positive displacement or
centrifugal type, and can be constructed of steel,
cast iron, or bronze. All packings must be made of
EDC resistant materials such as PTFE. Pumps used
for drumming should supply EDC at a rate of
approximately 50 gpm. The pump should be located
so that a positive head pressure is always
maintained on the suction side.

Other Non-Metal Wetted Parts

All non-metal wetted surfaces such as internal pump,
valve and meter parts must be constructed of
components that are inert to EDC, such as Teflon.
Neoprene and natural rubber parts cannot be
used for EDC service. Other plastic products such
as ultra-high molecular weight, high molecular
weight, irradiated, or cross-linked polyethylene,
polyvinyl alcohol, or other common polymeric
compounds must first be tested with EDC to ensure
compatibility.

Bypass Line
A bypass line must be provided when utilizing a
positive displacement pump, and is recommended
for centrifugal pumps to protect against pipe damage
and undue strain on the pump.
Emergency Shut-Off Valve

Line Filters
Filters of small micron pore size can be used to
remove insoluble contaminants that can accumulate
through product transfers. Filters should be made of
solvent resistant materials, and should be
adequately sized for the required flow rate.

13

Clean Out Preparation

All personnel involved in tank clean out procedures
should be properly trained in safe entry and rescue
procedures. They should have a working knowledge
and understanding of the hazards that may exist.

Line Driers
EDC can absorb moisture from the air during product
transfer. Desiccants such as Drierite (calcium
sulfate), molecular sieve (4A), alumina or certain ion
exchange resins (Dow X811) may be used for drying
liquid EDC. Before using another desiccant material,
laboratory tests should be run to determine
compatibility and performance. The EDC filter and
drier should be arranged in series such that product
passes through each during transfer to and from
storage.

Entry into confined spaces should be by written entry

permit, issued by the responsible supervisor or other
qualified person. The purpose of the entry permit is
to ensure that a checklist of precautions has been
reviewed prior to entry. This permit is an
authorization and approval in writing certifying that all
existing hazards have been evaluated, and
necessary protective measures have been taken to
ensure the safety of the worker. The permit should
be valid for a limited time only (usually 8-10 hours),
and a new permit should be required in the event of
any job interruption or any indication of changes in
job conditions. Issuance of the entry permit should
address all of the following considerations:

Pressure/Vacuum Relief System

Tanks should also be equipped with a pressurevacuum relief system to maintain the integrity and
safety of the tank. The set points for such a system
are typically design values of the vessel.
Safety Seal
If the storage tank is fitted with a liquid overflow line,
the line must be equipped with a seal. A filled U-trap
can serve as a seal, but the use of a seal pot is
recommended.

Vessel Entry
1. All process lines exiting or entering the confined
space should be disconnected, capped off, and
blinded. Closing of valves alone is not adequate
protection.

Vent Scrubbers
An emission control device such as a scrubber or
low temperature condenser, may be fitted to the vent
(and may be required by law). Vent scrubbers may
contain an EDC trapping media, such as activated
carbon, to prevent EDC emissions to the
atmosphere.

2. Pumps connected to the enclosed area or any

other mechanical or electrical equipment,
especially conveyors, are to be locked out by
locking the main electrical switch in the OFF
position.
3. A system for positive ventilation should be
provided prior to, and during, entry periods.
Fans, exhaust vents, air movers, or natural
drafts that are capable of ventilating the confined
air space within several minutes are necessary.
4. Prior to entry, the enclosed space must be tested
for oxygen content, lower explosive limit, and
toxic vapor concentration. The oxygen content
must be between 19.5% and 23.5% in all levels of
the tank. The atmosphere must be non-explosive
(< 10% of the lower flammability limit), and be
absent of toxic vapors. The concentration of EDC
vapors may be determined using the appropriate
NIOSH approved gas detection tubes, a
calibrated halide meter, portable flame ionization
gas chromatograph, or a portable infrared (IR)
analyzer.

Maintenance of Storage Facilities

One of the primary hazards associated with the use
of EDC occurs when employees are exposed to high
concentrations of the solvent vapor in an enclosed
area. Adequate ventilation must be supplied to
remove vapors before hazardous concentrations can
accumulate. EDC vapors are expected to be highest
during storage tank clean out. During confined area
entries, special care must be taken to ensure
employee safety. The following procedures were
adapted from the ASTM D 4276, Standard
Practice for Confined Area Entry and are listed
as a starting point for developing procedures.
You must follow the OSHA requirements given in
29 CFR 1910.146.
(For the purpose of these instructions, a confined
area entry refers to the entering of any tank vessel,
sump, pit, duct, tank car, tank truck, van trailer, or
enclosed space in which EDC was contained.) It
should be noted that EDC vapors are heavier than
air and will concentrate at the lowest point.

5. Personal protective equipment should include an

approved respirator (Self Contained Breathing
Apparatus [SCBA]) or supplied air respirators are
recommended), hard hat, safety glasses or
splash goggles, gloves, and long sleeves. In

14

addition, any person entering the enclosed area

must be fitted with a safety harness and lifeline.
The lifeline should be secured outside the
entrance.

sparking. Repair defects to the tank surface as

necessary.
13. After removing insoluble contaminants, rinse all
EDC wetted surfaces thoroughly with an alcohol
or water rinse. If cleaning a tank where acidity
has been a problem, all EDC wet surfaces
should be scrubbed with a wire brush and a 5%
soda ash (sodium carbonate) or baking soda
(sodium bicarbonate) solution to remove metal
chlorides and visible patches of corrosion.

6. When entry into the vessel must be made through

a top opening, a hoisting device or other effective
means must be provided to lift the worker out of
the space. Ladders must be in place for
entrances and exits where the drop or climb
involves a depth of more than three feet.
7. Self-contained breathing apparatus or supplied air
respirators should be available at the vessel
entrance. These devices must be worn if testing
finds the EDC level to be above the OSHA
Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL).

Strong alkalis, such as caustic soda (sodium

hydroxide, NaOH) or caustic potash
(potassium hydroxide, KOH), must not be
used. They can react with EDC to form
explosive mixtures.

8. A second person must be available at the area

entrance and in sight of the person inside at all
times. They should be equipped with proper
safety equipment and adequate communications
equipment for summoning additional help if
necessary (i.e. a two way radio, whistle, etc.).
Under no conditions should this observer enter
the affected area without others standing by. If the
observer is required to leave his or her post, the
person inside the enclosed space must exit.

14. After cleaning, rinse the tank thoroughly with

several successive water rinses to remove any
remaining impurities. Dry the tank completely by
ventilating for several hours. Do not refill with
EDC until the tank is completely dry.
15. Close manways and all other openings and
secure vessel. Open the appropriate entrance
and exit lines, and prepare the tank to be filled
with EDC. (New gaskets are recommended to
ensure the integrity of the product and to prevent
leaks.) For large bulk storage tanks, purge the
tank with nitrogen to a dew point of -40F. An
oxygen content of less than 1% may also be
desired.

9. Approved low-voltage electrical equipment must

be used where the atmosphere in the confined
area may contain flammable vapors or where the
atmosphere could contain EDC vapors within
their flammable limits. All electrical circuits should
be equipped with a ground-fault interrupter.

SPILLS AND PRECAUTIONS

10. Entrances to confined space should be posted,

identifying the area as a confined space and that
a permit is required for entry. During the work,
when there is more than one entrance to the
confined area, signs indicating that workers are
inside, posted at each entrance, are advised.

EDC is a flammable solvent. Direct contact with

open flames or a high energy heat source will result
in combustion as well as corrosive, noxious gases.
If combustion occurs, quench flames using water,
dry chemical, foam, or carbon dioxide (CO2).

11. Before entering an EDC storage tank or other

EDC vessel for cleaning or inspection, any
remaining EDC should be drained or removed by
vacuum, and placed in a safe container awaiting
disposal or reuse. The tank should then be
nitrogen dried or steamed or filled with water,
drained, ventilated, and checked for presence of
EDC vapors.

Work areas that employ EDC should be fire resistant

and well ventilated to limit the concentration of
potentially flammable vapors.
During EDC transfers from one container to
another, equipment should be properly grounded
and bonded to prevent the build up of static
electricity. If discharged, this build up could
create an igniting spark.

12. Remove metal fines or chips, rust, and all other

insoluble contaminants from the tank bottom.
Scrape any baked on contaminants if necessary
using an appropriate wire brush to avoid

15

TECHNICAL DATA

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

PRODUCT SAMPLING

Some of the physical properties

dichloride are listed below:

1. In general, an eight ounce sample is adequate for

confirming product specifications.
Before
transferring bulk shipments of OxyChem EDC,
the shipping vessel should be sampled and
analyzed to ensure product quality.

of

ethylene

Chemical Formula CH2ClCH2Cl

CAS number 107-06-2
Names: Ethylene dichloride, 1,2-Dichloroethane,
sym-dichloroethane, ethlyene chloride, EDC, Dutch
liquid, Dutch oil
Molecular Weight 98.96

2. Sampling should only be accomplished with a

closed system that has built-in capabilities to
handle vents, provide nitrogen, process unused
liquid volume and results in a sample in a closed
container.

Elemental Composition
Carbon 24.27%
Hydrogen 4.07%
Chlorine 71.66%

3. Samples should be stored in glass with polyseal

screw caps or caps lined with poly-fluorocarbons.
Caps made of other HDPE or irradiated PE may
also be used if non-volatile residue is not
important. If caps are metal lined, make sure
neither tin nor aluminum are used. Do not use
plastic coated (inside or outside) sample bottles
when sampling EDC since the plastic coating can
contaminate the product.

Flash Point
Open Cup ...................................... 18C (64F)
Closed Cup.................................... 12.85C (55F)
Index of refraction ................................... 1.4421 at 25C
Boiling Point ............................................ 83.44C
Freezing Point ......................................... -35.66C
Explosive Limits in air ............................. 6 - 16%
(volume % at 25C and 1 Atmosphere)

4. For barges, vessels, and one compartment trucks,

a single sample is sufficient. For multiple
compartment trucks or barges, samples should
be taken and analyzed for each compartment.

Density See graph on page 17Figure 12

Vapor Pressure See graph on page 18Figure 13
Water Solubility See graph on page 19-Figure 14.

5. Samples taken as retains should be labeled with

the product name and grade, name and address
of supplier, date sent, date received, barge,
vessel, truck ID number, and lot number.
Samples should be stored in a safe, dry place,
away from direct sunlight for an appropriate
period, generally ninety days. Afterwards, they
should be added to the customers inventory, or
disposed of in accordance with all federal, state,
and local regulations.

16

Figure 12: Density Vs. Temperature

17

Figure 13: Vapor Pressure Vs. Temperature

18

Figure 14: Solubility of Water in EDC Vs. Temperature

19

Important: The information presented herein, while

not guaranteed, was prepared by technical personnel
and is true and accurate to the best of our knowledge.
NO WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR OF
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR
WARRANTY OR GUARANTY OF ANY OTHER KIND,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IS MADE REGARDING
PERFORMANCE, SAFETY, SUITABILITY, STABILITY
OR OTHERWISE. This information is not intended to
be all-inclusive as to the manner and conditions of
use, handling, storage, disposal and other factors that
may involve other or additional legal, environmental,
safety or performance considerations, and OxyChem
assumes no liability whatsoever for the use of or
reliance upon this information. While our technical
personnel will be happy to respond to questions, safe
handling and use of the product remains the
responsibility of the customer. No suggestions for
use are intended as, and nothing herein shall be
construed as, a recommendation to infringe any
existing patents or to violate any Federal, State, local
or foreign laws.

FURTHER INFORMATION
More detailed information on EDC or any of its
specific applications is available on request through
the OxyChem Technical Service Department.
Technical Service Department
OxyChem
PO Box 12283
Wichita, KS 67277-2283
800-733-1165 Ext. 1
www.OxyChem.com

20