Trichloroethylene is a manufactured chemical. It is a colourless liquid, highly volatile with a slightly sweet odour.
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Common name: Trichloroethylene, TRI
Use
Trichloroethylene is used for vapour degreasing and cleaning of metal parts in the iron and metalindustry. Trichloroethylene is also used in adhesives, for synthesis in the chemical industry as a feedstock for the CFC substitutes and as a solvent for various products.
Releases to the environment
Release of trichloroethylene into the environment can occur as a result of the manufacture, use and disposal of the chemical. Disposal of products containing trichloroethylene such as solvents and paints can result in its release in treatment works and waste landfills.
Impacts on the environment and human health
Trichloroethylene may cause cancer and genetic damage. Excessive exposure may affect the brain (central nervous system effects), heart, kidney, and liver, and cause skin and eye irritation. It is likely that trichloroethylene has a wide distribution in the environment, but usually at low levels.
International actions
Trichloroethylene is on the EU-Commissions EPER list and listed in the PRTR Protocol under the Århus Convention.
CAS NO: 79-01-6