Trichloroethylene

1Identification

Name

Trichloroethylene

IUPAC name

1,1,2-trichloroethene

CAS number

79-01-6

EC number

201-167-4

Molecular formula

C2HCl3

Molecular weight

131.38 g/mol

InChIKey

XSTXAVWGXDQKEL-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES

C(=C(Cl)Cl)Cl

PubChem CID

6575

Synonyms

Trichloroethene, 1,1,2-Trichloroethene, Ethinyl trichloride, 1,1,2-Trichloroethylene, Ethene, trichloro-, Ethylene trichloride, Germalgene, Westrosol, Densinfluat, Narkosoid, Trethylene, Acetylene trichloride, Anamenth, Narcogen

Recommended uses

• The main use of trichloroethylene is in the vapor degreasing of metal parts. Trichloroethylene is used in consumer products such as typewriter correction fluids, paint removers/strippers, adhesives, spot removers, and rug-cleaning fluids.
  EPA Hazardous Air Pollutants
• Used extensively form 1920s through 1970s as a degreaser in metal fabrication, but use declined because of concerns about environmental pollution and cancer; TCE used in about 50% of vapor degreasing in 1970s and about 33% in 1980s. Increased EPA regulations in 1990s further limited its use. Other industries using TCE: dry cleaning, textile, electronics, leather, and rubber; Also used in adhesives, drugs, paints, and inks; [Reference #2]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Banned in the US in 1977 as a pet food additive, grain fumigant, wound disinfectant, obstetrical anesthetic, and extractant to make decaffeinated coffee; [ATSDR ToxProfile] In US industries, the process use of TCE ended in the mid-1980s; [PMID 24224613]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Refrigerants Cleaning agent Absorbent Laboratory chemicals Intermediate Solvent
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
• Solvent Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Cleaning agent
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)

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

Description

• Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a nonflammable, colorless liquid with a somewhat sweet odor and a sweet, burning taste. It is used mainly as a solvent to remove grease from metal parts, but it is also an ingredient in adhesives, paint removers, typewriter correction fluids, and spot removers. Trichloroethylene is not thought to occur naturally in the environment. However, it has been found in underground water sources and many surface waters as a result of the manufacture, use, and disposal of the chemical.
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Trichloroethylene can cause cancer according to an independent committee of scientific and health experts. It can cause developmental toxicity and male reproductive toxicity according to The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
  California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)
• Trichloroethylene appears as a clear colorless volatile liquid having a chloroform-like odor. Denser than water and is slightly soluble in water. Noncombustible. Used as a solvent, fumigant, in the manufacture of other chemicals, and for many other uses.
  CAMEO Chemicals

2Hazard identification

Signal word

Danger

Pictograms

GHS07, GHS08

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)
• 1 - Materials that must be preheated before ignition can occur. Materials require considerable preheating, under all ambient temperature conditions, before ignition and combustion can occur.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 0 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable, even under fire conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Health hazards

• INHALATION: symptoms range from irritation of the nose and throat to nausea, an attitude of irresponsibility, blurred vision, and finally disturbance of central nervous system resulting in cardiac failure. Chronic exposure may cause organic injury. INGESTION: symptoms similar to inhalation. SKIN: defatting action can cause dermatitis. EYES: slightly irritating sensation and lachrymation. (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 and irritating gases are produced in fire situations. (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)
• Combustible under specific conditions. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Hazards summary

• Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a nonflammable, colorless liquid with a somewhat sweet odor and a sweet, burning taste. It is used mainly as a solvent to remove grease from metal parts, but it is also an ingredient in adhesives, paint removers, typewriter correction fluids, and spot removers. Trichloroethylene is not thought to occur naturally in the environment. However, it has been found in underground water sources and many surface waters as a result of the manufacture, use, and disposal of the chemical.
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Most of the trichloroethylene used in the United States is released into the atmosphere from industrial degreasing operations. Acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) inhalation exposure to trichloroethylene can affect the human central nervous system (CNS), with symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, confusion, euphoria, facial numbness, and weakness. Liver, kidney, immunological, endocrine, and developmental effects have also been reported in humans. A recent analysis of available epidemiological studies reports trichloroethylene exposure to be associated with several types of cancers in humans, especially kidney, liver, cervix, and lymphatic system.
  EPA Hazardous Air Pollutants

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

• Dizziness. Drowsiness. Headache. Weakness. Nausea. Unconsciousness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Dry skin. Redness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness. 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)
• Approach fire from upwind to avoid hazardous vapors and toxic decomposition products. Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool. Use water spray, dry chemical, foam, or carbon dioxide. Extinguish fire using agent suitable for surrounding fire.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Hazardous combustion products

• Poisonous gases, including hydrogen chloride, chlorine gas, and phosgene, are produced in fire.
  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 and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. 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)
• Evacuate and restrict persons not wearing protective equipment from area of spill or leak until cleanup is complete. Remove all ignition sources. Establish forced ventilation to keep levels below explosive limit. 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.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Contain and isolate spill by using clay/bentonite dams, interceptor trenches, or impoundments. /SRP: If time permits, pits, ponds, lagoons, soak holes, or holding areas should be sealed with an impermeable flexible membrane liner./ Construct swale to divert uncontaminated portion of watershed around contaminated portion. ... Density stratification and impoundment -- remove product from bottom layer by pumping through manifold or polyethylene rope mop collection or remove clarified upper portion by skimmers or siphon. Treatment is required for both clarified and concentrated fractions. Treatment alternatives include powdered activated carbon, granular activated carbon, and biodegradation.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

7Handling and storage

• Separated from metals, strong bases, food and feedstuffs, combustible substances and ignition sources. See Chemical Dangers. Dry. Keep in the dark. Keep in a well-ventilated room. 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. Light sensitive. Handle and store under inert gas.
  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)
• Store in a secure poison location. ... Before entering confined space where this chemical may be present, check to make sure that an explosive concentration does not exist. Trichloroethylene must be handled and stored away from operations which generate high temperatures, such as arc welding or cutting; unshielded resistance heating; open flames; and high-intensity ultraviolet light. It must also be handled to avoid contact with hot metals. Poisonous gases, such as phosgene, and hydrogen chloride are formed. Prevent contact of trichloroethylene with strong alkalis, such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, because a highly flammable, toxic liquid is produced.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

8Exposure controls / personal protection

Personal protective equipment

• Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Trichloroethylene: 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: Safety glasses with side-shields conforming to EN166. 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

• 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, or tetrachloroethylene can detonate (ASESB Pot. Incid. 39. 1968; Chem. Eng. News 46(9):38. 1968). It has been determined experimentally that a mixture of beryllium powder with carbon tetrachloride or with trichloroethylene will flash or spark on heavy impact (ASESB Pot. Incid. 39. 1968).
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Slightly soluble in water.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Incompatible materials and hazardous reactions

• Incompatible materials: Oxidizing agents, strong bases, magnesium.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Contact with strong caustics causes decomposition and the production of highly toxic and flammable dichloroacetylene. Violent reaction with chemically active metals, powders or shavings, such as aluminum, barium, lithium, sodium, magnesium, titanium. Violent reaction with aluminum in the presence of dilute hydrochloric acid ... Keep this chemical away from high temperatures, such as arc welding or cutting, unshielded resistance heating, open flames, and high intensity ultraviolet light.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Dissolves most fixed and volatile oils.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Chemical stability

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

11Toxicological information

Target organs

• Cancer, Developmental (effects during periods when organs are developing), Hematological (Blood Forming), Hepatic (Liver), Immunological (Immune System), Neurological (Nervous System), Renal (Urinary System or Kidneys)
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Developmental Immune
  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, liver and kidneys. This may result in impaired functions. Exposure at high concentrations 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 central nervous system. This may result in fatigue, irritability and mental and memory disturbances. The substance may have effects on the liver, kidneys and immune system. This substance is carcinogenic to humans. Causes toxicity to human reproduction or development.
  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 D040, F002, U228, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.
  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)
• 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)

14Transport information

UN number: UN 1710

Shipping name

• UN 1710; Trichloroethylene
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• IMO 6.1; Trichloroethylene
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

DOT hazard class

• Trichloroethylene
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• UN1710
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• Div 6.1 Poisonous materials (49 eCFR § 173.132)
  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

• 1710 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. Trichloroethylene is produced, as an intermediate or a final product, by process units covered under this subpart.
  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)
• Trichloroethylene is designated as a hazardous substance under section 311(b)(2)(A) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and further regulated by the Clean Water Act Amendments of 1977 and 1978. These regulations apply to discharges of this substance. This designation includes any isomers and hydrates, as well as any solutions and mixtures containing this substance.
  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)
• Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a volatile organic compound widely used in industrial and commercial processes and has some limited uses in consumer and commercial products. EPA identified significant health risks associated with TCE use in vapor degreasing and EPA's proposed determination is that these risks are unreasonable risks. To address these unreasonable risks, EPA is proposing under section 6 of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to prohibit the manufacture (including import), processing, and distribution in commerce of TCE for use in vapor degreasing; to prohibit commercial use of TCE in vapor degreasing;
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• U228; As stipulated in 40 CFR 261.33, when trichloroethylene, as a commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate, becomes a waste, it must be managed according to Federal and/or State hazardous waste regulations. Also defined as a hazardous waste is any residue, contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into water or on dry land, of this waste. Generators of small quantities of this waste may qualify for partial exclusion from hazardous waste regulations (40 CFR 261.5).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Trichloroethylene is an indirect food additive for use 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 6575 and the sources it aggregates (attributed inline). Data retrieved 2026-10-12. This summary describes the pure substance and is not a supplier SDS.