Question

For dry cleaning, in the place of tetrachloroethane, liquefied carbon dioxide with suitable detergent is an alternative solvent. What type of harm to the environment will be prevented by stopping use of tetrachloroethane? Will use of liquefied carbon dioxide with detergent be completely safe from the point of view of pollution? Explain.

Answer 1

Tetrachloroethene (Cl₂C = CCl₂) was earlier used as solvent for dry cleaning. This compound contaminates the groundwater and is also suspected carcinogen. The process using this compound is now being replaced by a process where liquefied CO₂ is used. Replacement of halogenated solvent by liquid carbon dioxide will result in less harm to the groundwater. These days, hydrogen peroxide is used for the purpose of bleaching clothes in the process of laundry, which gives better results and makes use of a lesser amount of water.