Trichloroethylene

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a colorless, non-flammable liquid with a sweet, chloroform-like odor. It is a human-made chemical that was first synthesized in 1864. TCE is used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications, including:

• Dry cleaning
• Degreasing metal parts
• Extracting oils and fats from plants
• Making other chemicals
• Inhaling as an anesthetic

TCE is a known carcinogen and can cause a variety of health problems, including:

• Liver damage
• Kidney damage
• Brain damage
• Cancer
• Reproductive problems
• Birth defects

Exposure to TCE can occur through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion. People who are most at risk for exposure to TCE include:

• Workers in industries that use TCE, such as dry cleaners and metal degreasers
• People who live near areas where TCE has been released into the environment, such as Superfund sites
• People who have been exposed to TCE through medical procedures, such as inhalation anesthesia

If you are concerned about your exposure to TCE, you should talk to your doctor. There are no specific treatments for TCE poisoning, but your doctor may be able to recommend ways to reduce your exposure and manage any health problems that you are experiencing.

Here are some additional facts about trichloroethylene:

• It is denser than water and is slightly soluble in water.
• It is a volatile compound, meaning that it evaporates easily.
• It is a known carcinogen and can cause cancer of the liver, kidney, brain, and reproductive system.
• It can also cause birth defects.
• Exposure to trichloroethylene can cause a variety of health problems, including headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and unconsciousness.
• In high concentrations, trichloroethylene can be fatal.
• Trichloroethylene is a persistent pollutant and can remain in the environment for many years.
• It is found in groundwater, soil, and air.
• Trichloroethylene can also be found in consumer products, such as some wood finishes, adhesives, paint removers, and stain removers.

If you are concerned about your exposure to trichloroethylene, you should talk to your doctor. There are no specific treatments for trichloroethylene poisoning, but your doctor may be able to recommend ways to reduce your exposure and manage any health problems that you are experiencing.