Methylene Chloride or Methylene chloride CH2Cl2, also known as dichloromethane, is a colorless liquid that has a mild sweet odor, is volatile, and is not flammable. It is widely used as an industrial solvent and as a paint stripper. It can be found in certain aerosol and pesticide products and is used in the manufacture of photographic films.
This chemical can be found in some spray paints, automotive cleaners, and other household products. Methylene chloride does not appear to occur naturally in the environment. It is made from methane gas or wood alcohol. The majority of methylene chloride released into the environment results from its use as an end product by various industries and the use of aerosol and paint remover products in homes.