Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a volatile organic compound (VOC) that has been one of the most widely used industrial solvents globally for nearly a century. This colorless liquid is highly effective at dissolving grease and has historically been prized for its non-flammable nature and efficient cleaning properties.
However, due to significant health and environmental concerns, the use of trichloroethylene has been heavily regulated and, in many cases, banned in consumer products by regulatory bodies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Despite regulatory changes, understanding where TCE was (and may still be) found is crucial for identifying potential exposure risks. This article outlines the primary commercial, industrial, and historical household products that have contained trichloroethylene.
Industrial and Commercial Applications: The Primary Users of TCE
The vast majority of trichloroethylene is and was used in large-scale commercial and industrial settings, where its degreasing power is most valuable.
1. Vapor Degreasing and Metal Cleaning
This is historically the single largest use of TCE. Trichloroethylene is an exceptional solvent for cleaning metal parts and equipment. It is extensively used in:
- Metal Fabrication: Removing grease, oils, and sludge from machinery, tools, and fabricated metal pieces.
- Electronics Manufacturing: Cleaning circuit boards and other sensitive components before assembly.
- Automotive and Aerospace Industries: Degreasing engine components and complex metal parts.
2. Spot Cleaning and Dry Cleaning
TCE was commonly used in the dry-cleaning industry not as the primary cleaning solvent (which is often perchloroethylene, or PERC), but as a powerful spot cleaner or spot remover to target specific, stubborn stains on fabrics.
3. Chemical Manufacturing
Trichloroethylene is an important chemical intermediate. It is used in the production of:
- Refrigerant Chemicals: Specifically, certain hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).
- Other Organic Chemicals: As a starting material in various chemical syntheses.
Household and Consumer Products: Sources of Exposure
While not widely sold directly to consumers in its pure form, trichloroethylene was once a common ingredient in several household items where its solvent properties were valued.
Consumers are most likely to encounter TCE through older or specialty products, although many manufacturers have replaced it with safer alternatives due to its toxicity.
| Product Category | Specific Examples of TCE Use |
| Cleaning Products | Carpet and Rug Cleaners, aerosol degreasers, spot removers for clothing/upholstery, and sometimes cleaning wipes. |
| Adhesives & Sealants | Various types of glues, spray adhesives, sealants, and often in repair kits (e.g., for plumbing). |
| Paints & Coatings | Certain formulations of paint removers, paint strippers, lacquers, and specialty coatings. |
| Hobby & Specialty | Gun cleaners, lubricants, typewriter correction fluids (liquid paper), and some arts and crafts sprays/adhesives. |
Export to Sheets
The Importance of Checking Labels
Because of the regulatory changes and phasing out of trichloroethylene, it is vital to check product labels carefully. The chemical may be listed by its common abbreviation TCE or its CAS number (79-01-6), or it may be contained within older stock. Choosing products explicitly labeled “TCE-free” is the safest approach.
Health and Regulatory Status
The shift away from using trichloroethylene stems from extensive scientific evidence linking exposure to serious health risks, including certain cancers (especially kidney cancer), neurological damage, and reproductive issues.
The EPA has taken significant action under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to ban most consumer uses of trichloroethylene and implement strict regulations on its industrial and commercial applications.
If you are involved in industries where high-purity solvents are necessary, it is crucial to stay updated on regulatory compliance and safe handling protocols. For detailed information on the supply, specifications, and proper handling of trichloroethylene for regulated industrial uses, please visit our comprehensive product page: Trichloroethylene Product Information. (Internal Link using a strong anchor text)
Conclusion
Although trichloroethylene remains an effective solvent for certain high-precision industrial processes, its presence in consumer products has been drastically reduced due to widespread health awareness and regulatory intervention.
The legacy of TCE is found in the need for diligence—even as manufacturers reformulate products, understanding which items historically contained trichloroethylene is essential for minimizing personal and environmental exposure risks.
