Complaint
Product Name: Tetrachloroethylene
Chemical Formula: C2Cl4
CAS Number: 127-18-4
Tetrachloroethylene, also known under the systematic name tetrachloroethene, or perchloroethylene, and many other names (and abbreviations such as "perc" or "PERC", and "PCE"), is a chlorocarbon with the formula Cl2C=CCl2 . It is a colorless liquid widely used for dry cleaning of fabrics, hence it is sometimes called "dry-cleaning fluid". It also has its uses as an effective automotive brake cleaner. It has a sweet odor detectable by most people at a concentration of 1 part per million (1 ppm). Worldwide production was about 1 million metric tons (980,000 long tons; 1,100,000 short tons) in 1985.
Tetrachloroethylene is an excellent solvent for organic materials. Otherwise it is volatile, highly stable, and nonflammable. For these reasons, it is widely used in dry cleaning. It is also used to degrease metal parts in the automotive and other metalworking industries, usually as a mixture with other chlorocarbons. It appears in a few consumer products including paint strippers and spot removers. It is also used in aerosol preparations.
It is used in neutrino detectors where a neutrino interacts with a neutron in the chlorine atom and converts it to a proton to form argon.
| Items | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Substance | Tetrachloroethylene |
| Chemical Formula | C2Cl4 |
| Common Names | Perchloroethylene, PCE |
| Physical State | Colorless Liquid |
| Odor | Slightly Sweet |
| Flammability | Nonflammable |
| Uses | Dry cleaning solvent, degreasers for metals, cleaning solvent for electronic components, intermediate in chemical synthesis |
| Health Risks | Prolonged exposure can harm the central nervous system, liver, and kidneys; considered a possible human carcinogen |
| Safety Precautions | Proper handling and ventilation to minimize exposure; use protective equipment such as gloves and goggles |
| Environmental Impact | Can contaminate soil and groundwater if not properly managed; high potential for bioaccumulation |
| Regulatory Status | Regulated by various government agencies for occupational and environmental safety |
| Additional Information | It is important to follow local regulations and guidelines when using tetrachloroethylene; consult reliable sources or experts for specific safety information |
