Tetrachloroethylene

1Identification

Name

Tetrachloroethylene

IUPAC name

1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethene

CAS number

127-18-4

EC number

204-825-9

Molecular formula

C2Cl4

Molecular weight

165.8 g/mol

InChIKey

CYTYCFOTNPOANT-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES

C(=C(Cl)Cl)(Cl)Cl

PubChem CID

31373

Synonyms

Tetrachloroethene, Perchloroethylene, Perchlorethylene, Tetrachlorethylene, Perc, Ethene, tetrachloro-, Ethylene tetrachloride, 1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethylene, Ankilostin, Didakene, Perclene, Tetracap, Tetropil, Tetraguer

Recommended uses

• Primary dry cleaning solvent being used today; [Ladou, p. 552] Used in dry cleaning, metal degreasing, as a chemical intermediate, and in typewriter correction fluids; [HSDB] Dry cleaning operators who transferred wet garments to a dryer had mean levels of 150 ppm. Other job tasks with substantial exposure were degreasing (95 ppm), cleaning mining equipment, testing coal, cleaning animal coats (taxidermy), and cleaning/duplicating film. [PMID 18949603]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Sales of perchloroethylene in Sweden dropped about 95% between the early 1970s and 30 years later due to regulations and changes in dry-cleaning operations. [PMID 20886350]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Metal Degreasing [Category: Clean] Working with Glues and Adhesives [Category: Other] Dry Cleaning [Category: Clean] Mining [Category: Industry]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Cleaning agent Refrigerants Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Adhesion/cohesion promoter Intermediate Processing aids, specific to petroleum production Laboratory chemicals Solvent Other Processing aids not otherwise specified
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
• Cleaning agent Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Adhesion/cohesion promoter Solvent
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)

Use categories: Chemical Classes -> Volatile organic compounds · Food Additives -> EXTRACTION_SOLVENT -> JECFA Functional Classes

Description

• Tetrachloroethylene is a manufactured chemical that is widely used for dry cleaning of fabrics and for metal-degreasing. It is also used to make other chemicals and is used in some consumer products.
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Tetrachloroethylene (Perchloroethylene) can cause cancer according to an independent committee of scientific and health experts.
  California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)
• Perchloroethylene appears as a clear colorless volatile liquid having an ether-like odor. Noncombustible. Insoluble in water. Vapors heavier than air. Density approximately 13.5 lb / gal. Used as dry cleaning solvent, a degreasing solvent, a drying agent for metals, and in the manufacture of other chemicals.
  CAMEO Chemicals

2Hazard identification

Signal word

Warning

Pictograms

GHS08, GHS09

Classification source

Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council

Precautionary statements

Other reported classifications

6 classification records exist across sources. Differences usually reflect purity, physical form or impurities.

NFPA 704 rating

• 2 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause temporary incapacitation or residual injury.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 0 - Materials that will not burn under typical fire conditions, including intrinsically noncombustible materials such as concrete, stone, and sand.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 0 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable, even under fire conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Health hazards

• Vapor can affect central nervous system and cause anesthesia. Liquid may irritate skin after prolonged contact. May irritate eyes but causes no injury. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · Toxic by ingestion. · Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation, especially when in closed or confined areas. · Exposure in an enclosed area may be very harmful. · Contact may irritate or burn skin and eyes. · Fire may produce irritating and/or toxic gases. · Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Fire hazards

• Special Hazards of Combustion Products: Toxic, irritating gases may be generated in fires. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · Some of these materials may burn, but none ignite readily. · Most vapors are heavier than air. · Air/vapor mixtures may explode when ignited. · Container may explode in heat of fire.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• Not combustible. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire. Risk of fire and explosion on contact with metals. See Chemical Dangers.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Hazards summary

• Tetrachloroethylene is a manufactured chemical that is widely used for dry cleaning of fabrics and for metal-degreasing. It is also used to make other chemicals and is used in some consumer products.
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Perchloroethylene can induce anesthesia. Liver and kidney injury have been reported after accidental exposures to high concentrations. [ACGIH] Tetrachloroethylene causes trivial hepatotoxicity, unless exposure is very heavy or agent ingested. [Zimmerman, p. 333] Perchloroethylene causes skeletal abnormalities in high-dose reproductive studies of mice. Increased spontaneous abortion rates were found in occupationally exposed women in Finland but not in other countries studied (Denmark, Norway, and Sweden). [Frazier, p. 182-3] Perchloroethylene is in the list of Some volatile substances which may be abused by inhalation published on the web site of the U.N.
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases

3Composition / information on ingredients

This page describes the pure substance. Commercial products may be solutions or mixtures. Check Section 3 of your supplier's SDS for concentrations and other ingredients.

4First-aid measures

• EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• General First Aid: · Call 911 or emergency medical service. · Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination. · Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely. · Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. · If victim is not breathing: -- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance. -- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• (General first aid procedures) Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately. Skin: Soap wash promptly - If this chemical contacts the skin, promptly wash the contaminated skin with soap and water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, promptly remove the clothing and wash the skin with soap and water. Get medical attention promptly. Breathing: Respiratory support Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Symptoms of exposure

• Cough. Dizziness. Headache. Drowsiness. Nausea. Unconsciousness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Dry skin. Redness. Burning sensation.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness. Burning sensation. Pain.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

5Fire-fighting measures

• Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Advice for firefighters: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• If material involved in fire: Extinguish fire using agent suitable for type of surrounding fire (Material itself does not burn or burns with difficulty).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Hazardous combustion products

• Not combustible, but if involved in a fire decomposes to produce hydrogen chloride and phosgene.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

6Accidental release measures

Isolation and evacuation

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 160 [Halogenated Solvents]: IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 100 meters (330 feet). FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Immediate precautionary measure · Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. Large Spill · Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 100 meters (330 feet). Fire · If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Spill cleanup

• Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapours adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance and complete protective clothing. Ventilation. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Collect leaking liquid in sealable containers. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Soak up with inert absorbent material and dispose of as hazardous waste. Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapours adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance and complete protective clothing. Ventilation. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Collect leaking liquid in sealable containers. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Evacuate and restrict persons not wearing protective equipment from area of spill or leak until cleanup is complete. Remove all ignition sources. Ventilate area of spill or leak. Absorb liquids in vermiculite, dry sand; earth, peat, carbon, or a similar material and deposit in sealed containers. Keep this chemical out of a confined space, such as a sewer, because of the possibility of an explosion, unless the sewer is designed to prevent the buildup of explosive concentrations. It may be necessary to contain and dispose of this chemical as a hazardous waste. If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

7Handling and storage

• Separated from metals, ignition sources and food and feedstuffs. See Chemical Dangers. Keep in the dark. Keep in a well-ventilated room. Dry. Cool.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Store in a secure poison location. Prior to working with this chemical you should be trained on its proper handling and storage. A regulated, marked area should be established where this chemical is handled, used, or stored in compliance with OSHA Standard 1910.1045. Tetrachloroethylene must be stored to avoid contact with strong oxidizers, such as chlorine, bromine, and chlorine dioxide; chemically active metals, such as barium, lithium, and beryllium; and nitric acid, since violent reactions occur. Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Separate from active metals. Isolate from open flames and combustibles.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

8Exposure controls / personal protection

Personal protective equipment

• Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Tetrachloroethylene: Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact. Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact. Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated. Remove: WHEN WET OR CONTAMINATED - Work clothing that becomes wet or significantly contaminated should be removed and replaced. Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the workshift.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Eye/face protection: Face shield and safety glasses. Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Skin protection: Handle with gloves.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Body Protection: Complete suit protecting against chemicals. The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Respirator recommendations

• NIOSH At concentrations above the NIOSH REL, or where there is no REL, at any detectable concentration: (APF = 10,000) Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode (APF = 10,000) Any supplied-air respirator that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode in combination with an auxiliary self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus Escape: (APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor canister Any appropriate escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus Important additiona…
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

9Physical and chemical properties

10Stability and reactivity

Reactivity

• PERCHLOROETHYLENE decomposes upon heating and exposure to UV light to give phosgene and HCl. Reacts violently with finely dispersed light metals (aluminum) and zinc. [Handling Chemicals Safely 1980 p. 887]. Mixtures with finely divided barium or lithium metal can detonate [ASESB Pot. Incid. 39. 1968; Chem. Eng. News 46(9):38. 1968]. Decomposes very slowly in water to form trichloroacetic acid and hydrochloric acid
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Insoluble in water.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Incompatible materials and hazardous reactions

• Incompatible materials: Strong oxidizing agents, strong bases.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• It has been determined experimentally that mixtures of finely divided barium metal and a number of halogenated hydrocarbons possess an explosive capability. Specifically, impact sensitivity tests have shown that granular barium in contact with monofluorotrichloromethane, trichlorotrifluoroethane, carbon tetrachloride, trichloroethylene, ot tetrachloroethylene can detonate.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• It has been determined experimentally that mixtures of lithium shavings and a number of halogenated hydrocarbons possess an explosive capability. Specifically, impact sensitivity tests have shown that lithium shavings in contact with monofluorotrichloromethane, trichlorotrifluoroethane, carbon tetrachloride, trichloroethylene, ot tetrachloroethylene can detonate.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Chemical stability

• Stable under recommended storage conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

11Toxicological information

Target organs

• Cancer, Hepatic (Liver), Neurological (Nervous System), Renal (Urinary System or Kidneys)
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Nervous Ocular
  EPA Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Short-term exposure effects

• The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. If swallowed the substance may cause vomiting and could result in aspiration pneumonitis. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system. Exposure at high levels could cause unconsciousness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Long-term exposure effects

• Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The substance may have effects on the liver, kidneys and central nervous system. This substance is probably carcinogenic to humans.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

12Ecological information

Not available in the public sources we compile. Check Section 12 of the supplier's SDS.

13Disposal considerations

• Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number D039, U210, and F002, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material. Dissolve or mix the material with a combustible solvent and burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

14Transport information

UN number: UN 1897

Shipping name

• UN 1897; Tetrachloroethylene
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• IMO 6.1; Tetrachloroethylene
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

DOT hazard class

• Perchloroethylene
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• Marine pollutant
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• Tetrachloroethylene
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172

DOT label

• Poison
  CAMEO Chemicals

UN classification

• UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Pack Group: III
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Emergency Response Guidebook

• 1897 160
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

How DOT hazard classes work →

15Regulatory information

• This action promulgates standards of performance for equipment leaks of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). The intended effect of these standards is to require all newly constructed, modified, and reconstructed SOCMI process units to use the best demonstrated system of continuous emission reduction for equipment leaks of VOC, considering costs, non air quality health and environmental impact and energy requirements. Perchloroethylene is produced, as an intermediate or a final product, by process units covered under this subpart.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• As the federal pesticide law FIFRA directs, EPA is conducting a comprehensive review of older pesticides to consider their health and environmental effects and make decisions about their continued use. Under this pesticide reregistration program, EPA examines newer health and safety data for pesticide active ingredients initially registered before November 1, 1984, and determines whether the use of the pesticide does not pose unreasonable risk in accordance to newer saftey standards, such as those described in the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Toxic pollutant designated pursuant to section 307(a)(1) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and is subject to effluent limitations.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Persons in charge of vessels or facilities are required to notify the National Response Center (NRC) immediately, when there is a release of this designated hazardous substance, in an amount equal to or greater than its reportable quantity of 100 lb or 45.4 kg. The toll free number of the NRC is (800) 424-8802. The rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4 (section IV.D.3.b).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Pursuant to section 8(d) of TSCA, EPA promulgated a model Health and Safety Data Reporting Rule. The section 8(d) model rule requires manufacturers, importers, and processors of listed chemical substances and mixtures to submit to EPA copies and lists of unpublished health and safety studies. Tetrachloroethylene is included on this list. Effective date 6/1/87; Sunset date: 6/1/97.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• D039; A solid waste containing tetrachloroethylene may or may not become characterized as a hazardous waste when subjected to the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure listed in 40 CFR 261.24, and if so characterized, must be managed as a hazardous waste.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Perchloroethylene is an indirect food additive for use only as a component of adhesives.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Overview of SDS regulations (OSHA HazCom, WHMIS, REACH/CLP) →

16Other information

Compiled from PubChem CID 31373 and the sources it aggregates (attributed inline). Data retrieved 2026-10-12. This summary describes the pure substance and is not a supplier SDS.