Trichloroethylene

Chemical compound

Structural formula of trichloroethylene

Cyprane Trilene inhaler

Bottle of trichloroethylene, England, 1940-1960

Trilene inhaler, London, England, 1961-1970

Du Pont Triclene D, 1947

Trimar, 1952, Ohio Chemical

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a chlorinated hydrocarbon commonly used as an industrial solvent. It is a clear, non-flammable liquid with a sweet smell. Trichloroethylene is used primarily in degreasing metal parts and is also found in some adhesives, paint removers, and spot removers.

History

Trichloroethylene was first prepared in 1864 by the German chemist Emil Fischer. Its industrial use began in the 1920s, and it became widely used during World War II for degreasing metal parts. In the 1960s, trichloroethylene was also used as an anesthetic under the trade name Trilene.

Production

Trichloroethylene is produced by the chlorination of ethylene or by the hydrochlorination of acetylene. The process involves the reaction of ethylene with chlorine to form 1,2-dichloroethane, which is then further chlorinated to produce trichloroethylene.

Uses

Trichloroethylene is primarily used as a solvent for cleaning metal parts in the aerospace and automotive industries. It is also used in the production of hydrofluorocarbons and as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of other compounds.

Health effects

Exposure to trichloroethylene can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. It is known to cause central nervous system depression, liver and kidney damage, and is classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

Environmental impact

Trichloroethylene is a persistent environmental contaminant. It can be released into the air, water, and soil during its production and use. It is a common groundwater contaminant and poses a risk to human health and the environment.

Regulation

Due to its health and environmental risks, the use of trichloroethylene is regulated in many countries. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set limits on its concentration in drinking water and has proposed further restrictions on its use in industrial applications.

Related pages

• Chlorinated solvent
• Tetrachloroethylene
• Vinyl chloride