What is Trichloroethylene used for? Trichloroethylene, also known as TCE, is a popular organic solvent used in both industrial and commercial applications. However, TCE is becoming increasingly controversial due to the many negative health effects that come with exposure to this solvent.

Read on to learn more about what trichloroethylene is used for, and the safer alternatives that companies are switching to.

Industrial Uses for TCE 

Some of the industrial uses for TCE are as follows: 

Degreasing  

• TCE is primarily used to degrease metal equipment and machinery. The solvent is particularly popular for vapor degreasing, as its non-flammability and high boiling point make it an effective grease remover.  

Refrigerant Manufacturing  

• TCE is also used as raw material in the production of hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants. 

Extraction Solvent  

• In the textile industry, TCE is used as an extraction solvent to remove impurities, such as fats, waxes and oils, from certain fabrics like cotton and wool. 

Chemical Intermediate  

• Mostly in the pharmaceutical industry, TCE is used as the chemical intermediate in the manufacturing of drugs.  

Trichloroethylene is also used as an ingredient in many household products, such as: 

• Typewriter correction fluids 
• Adhesives 
• Lubricants 
• Spot removers 
• Paint removers 
• Paint thinners 
• Carpet cleaners  

Risks of Using TCE 

Though widely used in the United States, trichloroethylene use is being questioned by many companies and the public. The solvent poses many health risks to thousands of workers who are exposed to it:  

• TCE increases the risk of certain cancers, such as liver cancer, kidney cancer and lymphoma. 
• Moderate TCE exposure may cause dizziness, headaches, confusion, nausea, fatigue, eye irritation and respiratory irritation. 
• High TCE exposure may cause damage to a fetus, kidneys, central nervous system, and the liver. It may also cause permanent cardiac issues, neurological damage, loss of coordination, memory loss, unconsciousness and potentially death.  

On top of exposing industrial workers to potentially serious adverse effects, the solvent is known to contaminate hundreds of drinking water sources in the country. Trichloroethylene can leak from industrial storage tanks and seep into groundwater, where it is not able to evaporate and accumulates over years. Spills from decades ago are still a concern in the present day.  

Because of the risks associated with trichloroethylene usage, green solvents are becoming increasingly popular at the industrial level. These solvents can ensure the protection of workers’ health, and the environment, and end up saving companies more money in the long run.  

Interested in Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Hazardous Chemicals? 

Ecolink is a chemical company that provides various eco-friendly low toxicity solvents for multiple industrial applications. We prioritize ensuring the safety of workers and the environment, while also ensuring effective performance.  

To learn more about how our products can help your business achieve its goals, reach out to us today for a free quote and consultation session! 

Trichloroethylene, commonly referred to as TCE, has recently experienced a sudden increase in price. Though still widely used in the U.S. for various industrial applications, the solvent has been heavily regulated and even banned in certain countries.  

With the increase in prices and trichloroethylene regulations, this solvent is decreasing in popularity. 

TCE Uses 

Some of the commercial and industrial uses of the solvent are listed below:  

Degreasing  

• About 80% of TCE usage is for the degreasing of metal equipment and machinery. The solvent is easily the most popular choice for vapor degreasing, as its desirable properties work effectively with vapor cleaning.  

Refrigerant Manufacturing  

• The solvent is used in the production of hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants  

Extraction Processes  

• TCE is used as an extraction solvent in the textile industry, mainly for the removal of fats and oils from certain types of fabrics.  

Additive  

• It is added to various consumer products, such as cleaning wipes, spot removers, paint removers, adhesives, lubricants, carpet cleaners, and typewriter correction fluids.  

Why Have There Been Heavy Trichloroethylene Regulation?  

Certain regulations, particularly for chemical usage, are put in place by the government to: 

• Ensure the protection of human health  
• Prevent negative health effects   
• Prevent further pollution of air and water 

Though trichloroethylene is not a serious air pollutant or ozone depletion contributor, TCE has been shown to contaminate groundwater and drinking water sources for long periods of time, as a result of industrial storage tank leaks and improper chemical waste disposal.  

On top of contaminating the environment and affecting unsuspecting people, the solvent has long been known to expose workers to potentially serious health effects:   

• TCE is a well-known carcinogen that can cause various types of cancer. 
• Moderate exposure levels have been shown to potentially cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, confusion, fatigue, and respiratory irritation.  
• High exposure levels can potentially cause damage to the central nervous system, kidneys, and/or liver. These levels may also cause permanent cardiac issues, endocrine changes, unconsciousness, coma, or even death.  

Are Trichloroethylene Regulation Effective?  

Though there are regulations and exposure limits in place to prevent adverse health effects to workers, they have not been the most effective preventative measures. Trichloroethylene continues to contaminate groundwater, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has even recognized that most of their exposure limits are outdated and have not adequately prevented all negative health effects.  

Looking for Safe Replacements for Hazardous Chemicals?  

If you are looking for environmentally conscious and high-quality industrial chemicals, then you are in the perfect place! Ecolink provides eco-friendly solvents that are safer for the environment and the health of all living beings. 

If you’re not sure which chemical is best for your company’s needs, then feel free to contact us today for assistance!