Trichloroethylene

About Trichloroethylene

Trichloroethylene, also known by its IUPAC name trichloroethene, is an ethylene molecule in which three of the four hydrogen atoms have been replaced with chlorines.

It is a clear, nonflammable liquid with a slightly sweet odor. Its current primary use is as an industrial solvent or metal degreaser. Following its initial development, trichloroethylene was thought to have lower toxicity compared to chemically similar solvents, and therefore it had widespread use across a variety of industries. Some of its original applications include analgesics, food and flavor extracts, and coffee decaffeination. Today, it is understood to have much greater toxicity than initially suspected, and its use is more strictly regulated. Trichlorethylene is most commonly produced via the catalyzed chlorination of ethylene.

Common Uses and Applications

• Degreaser for metal parts
• Industrial solvent
• Cleaning reagent
• Paint removers
• Adhesives

Industries that use Trichloroethylene

• Drycleaning/Textiles Industry
• Research Laboratories