Tetrachloroethylene

Tetrachloroethylene Latest News

Researchers have identified that Tetrachloroethylene commonly used in dry cleaning and household items could lead to a 3x increased risk of liver diseases.

About Tetrachloroethylene

• It appears as a clear colorless volatile liquid having an ether-like odor.
• It is noncombustible and insoluble in water.
• Other names for tetrachloroethylene include perchloroethylene, PCE, perc, tetrachloroethene, and perchlor
• Health Impacts: Exposure to very high concentrations of tetrachloroethylene can cause dizziness headaches, sleepiness, incoordination confusion, nausea, unconsciousness, and even death.

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How does it enter the Environment?

• It breaks down very slowly in the air and so it can be transported long distances in the air.
• It evaporates quickly from water into air. It is generally slow to break down in water.
• It is generally slow to break down in soil.
• It can also seep into soil and groundwater through factory waste or improper disposal, making drinking water another potential source of exposure.

Applications of Tetrachloroethylene

• It is used to remove grease in industrial and household settings.
• It is widely used for dry cleaning of fabrics
• It is also used to make other chemicals and is used in some consumer products.

Source: HT