Trichloroethylene

Whatsapp Order

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a clear, non-flammable chlorinated solvent with a sweet, chloroform-like odor. It is widely used as an industrial solvent for degreasing and cleaning metal parts, thanks to its excellent ability to dissolve oils, greases, and waxes. Trichloroethylene is also used as a chemical intermediate and in the manufacture of adhesives, paints, and coatings. Its volatility and solvency make it essential in many manufacturing and maintenance processes, although use is regulated due to environmental and health concerns.

Compare

Add to wishlist

Category: Solvents (Cleaning) Tags: Animal nutrition, Feed Premix Ingredients, Livestock Feed Additives, Nutritional Enhancers for Animals, Veterinary Supplements

Description

Table of Contents

Trichloroethylene

Primary Uses

Metal Cleaning and Degreasing

Industrial Degreaser: Used for vapor degreasing and cold cleaning of metal parts in automotive, aerospace, and electronics manufacturing.
Surface Preparation: Removes oils, greases, and contaminants prior to painting or coating.

Chemical Industry

Intermediate: Used in production of hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants and other chemical syntheses.
Solvent in Adhesives and Coatings: Effective solvent for adhesives, sealants, and specialty coatings.

Electronics Industry

Cleaning Agent: Used to clean delicate electronic components due to its non-flammability and effectiveness.

Secondary Uses

Pharmaceuticals

Utilized as a solvent or extraction agent in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.

Textile Industry

Used as a solvent in textile processing, especially for degreasing fibers.

Laboratory Use

Employed as a solvent in analytical and preparative chemistry.

Printing Industry

Used in some specialty inks and cleaning formulations.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Trichloroethene
Common/Trade Name: Trichloroethylene (TCE)
CAS Number: 79-01-6
HS Code: 2903.39.00
Synonyms: Trichloroethene, TCE, Ethylene trichloride

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Clear, colorless liquid
Color & Odor: Colorless; sweet, chloroform-like odor
Boiling Point: 87.2 °C
Melting Point: -86.9 °C
Density: 1.46 g/cm³ at 20 °C
Flash Point: Non-flammable (does not ignite easily)
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water (~1.1 g/L); miscible with organic solvents
Vapor Pressure: 79 mm Hg at 20 °C

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

GHS Classification:
- Carcinogenicity (Category 2)
- Specific target organ toxicity — repeated exposure (Category 2)
- Hazardous to the aquatic environment (Category 2)
Toxicity: Toxic by inhalation and prolonged exposure; potential liver, kidney, and nervous system effects.
Exposure Limits:
- OSHA PEL: 100 ppm (8-hour TWA)
- ACGIH TLV: 20 ppm (8-hour TWA)

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed containers, away from heat, ignition sources, and incompatible materials.
Container Type: Steel drums or chemical-grade containers.
Shelf Life: Stable for several years if stored properly.
Handling Precautions: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid inhalation and skin contact; wear appropriate PPE.

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Complies with REACH, OSHA, and other global chemical safety standards.
Subject to strict environmental regulations due to toxicity and potential carcinogenicity.
Listed on chemical inventories such as TSCA (US) and EINECS (EU).
Classified under UN number 1710 for transport.

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Slowly biodegradable; persistent in environment.
Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic life; avoid environmental release.
Bioaccumulation: Low to moderate potential.

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE Required: Respirators, gloves, and protective clothing recommended.
Handling Guidelines: Use local exhaust ventilation; avoid skin and eye contact.
Storage Measures: Store in cool, ventilated areas; prevent spills and leaks.

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek medical attention if symptoms like dizziness or nausea develop.
Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing.
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical help if irritation persists.
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical attention.

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Not flammable but can decompose at high temperatures producing toxic gases.
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂.
Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, hydrogen chloride, phosgene.