Trichloroethylene
Trichloroethylene (TCE), also known as trichloroethene or TRI, is a clear, colorless volatile liquid with the formula C2HCl3 and molecular weight 131.39 g/mol. It has a density of 1.46 g/cm³, boiling point 87.2°C, melting point -84.7°C, flash point none (open cup), vapor pressure 58 mmHg at 20°C, and refractive index 1.477. Slightly soluble in water (1.1 g/L at 25°C), miscible with organics like ethanol and ether, it has a sweet chloroform-like odor and is produced by chlorination of ethylene or acetylene; nonflammable solvent with high volatility.
Trichloroethylene
Primarily used as a solvent for metal degreasing in vapor degreasing systems; in dry cleaning for textiles; extraction solvent in food processing like decaffeination; intermediate in chemical synthesis for refrigerants and pesticides; in adhesives, paints, and coatings as carrier; in electronics for cleaning circuits.
Highly toxic, suspected carcinogen (IARC Group 1) causing liver/kidney damage and neurotoxicity; irritates eyes/skin/respiratory tract (Category 2), skin sensitizer (Category 1), mutagen (Category 2). Inhalation leads to dizziness or unconsciousness; flammable vapors possible though nonflammable.
Typically packaged in 290kg steel drums or glass bottles for lab use; store in tightly closed containers in cool, ventilated areas away from light and incompatibles per Fisher Scientific SDS to prevent vapor release.
