Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a volatile, colorless liquid organic chemical. TCEs do not occur naturally, but are produced by chemical synthesis. It is mainly used in the manufacture of refrigerants and other hydrofluorocarbons, and as a degreasing solvent for metal equipment. TCE is also used in some household products such as cleaning wipes, aerosol cleaning products, tool cleaners, paint removers, spray adhesives, and carpet cleaners and stain removers. Commercial dry cleaners also use trichloroethylene as a stain remover.
How are people exposed to trichloroethylene?
TCE may be present in the air, water and soil where TCE is produced or used. It breaks down slowly and remains in the environment for a long time. It easily penetrates the soil and accumulates in groundwater.
The general population can be exposed to TCE by inhaling TCE in indoor and outdoor air, drinking contaminated water, or eating food that has been washed or processed with contaminated water. Because the chemical is widely used by the U.S. military to degrease equipment, contaminated soil and groundwater can be found near many current and former military bases.
People using TCE may inhale the chemical from the air and absorb it through the skin.
Historically, trichloroethylene has been used as a surgical anesthetic and as an inhaled analgesic. The Food and Drug Administration banned such use in the United States in 1977.
Which cancers are associated with exposure to trichloroethylene?
Long-term or repeated exposure to trichloroethylene can cause kidney cancer. Some evidence suggests that it may be associated with an increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and liver cancer.
How to reduce exposure?
People working with or near TCEs should wear protective equipment and minimize exposure to this chemical.
In general, people should avoid drinking water known to be contaminated with TCE, and should prevent children from playing in areas where the chemical is found in the soil. Always follow directions on product labels to minimize exposure to hazardous chemicals such as TCE
