Carbon Tetrachloride

CAS ID#: 56-23-5

Affected Organ Systems: Cancer, Hepatic (Liver), Neurological (Nervous System), Renal (Urinary System or Kidneys)

Cancer Classification:  Please contact NTP, IARC, or EPA with questions on cancer and cancer classification.

Chemical Classification: Volatile organic compounds

Summary: Carbon tetrachloride is a manufactured chemical that does not occur naturally. It is a clear liquid with a sweet smell that can be detected at low levels. It is also called carbon chloride, methane tetrachloride, perchloromethane, tetrachloroethane, or benziform. Carbon tetrachloride is most often found in the air as a colorless gas. It is not flammable and does not dissolve in water very easily. It was used in the production of refrigeration fluid and propellants for aerosol cans, as a pesticide, as a cleaning fluid and degreasing agent, in fire extinguishers, and in spot removers. Because of its harmful effects, these uses are now banned and it is only used in some industrial applications.

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Page last reviewed: February 10, 2021
Content source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry