Trichloroethylene: Overview
Description
Trichloroethylene is primarily used as a solvent to remove greases from metal parts. As a solvent or as a component of solvent blends trichloroethylene is used with adhesives, lubricants, paints, varnishes, paint strippers, pesticides, and cold metal cleaners. It is used to make other chemicals (pharmaceuticals, polychlorinated aliphatics, flame retardants, and insecticides). It is used as an extraction solvent for greases, oils, fats, waxes and tars. The textile industry uses it to scour cotton, wool and other fabrics, and in waterless dying and finishing. It is used as a refrigerant for low temperature heat transfer.
Substance details
Substance name: Trichloroethylene
CASR number: 79-01-6
Molecular formula: C2HCl3
Synonyms: Ethinyl trichloride; Acetylene trichloride; ethylene trichloride; triiecene; 1,1,2-Trichloroethylene; Tri; TCE; trichloroethene; Trichloran; Trichloren; 1,2,2-trichloroethylene; anamenth; benzinol
Physical properties
Trichloroethylene is a colourless, liquid with a sweet odour, and a sweet burning taste.
Melting Point: -73°C
Boiling Point: 86.7°C
Vapour Density: 4.53
Specific Gravity: 1.456
Flashpoint: 89.6°C
Chemical properties
Trichloroethylene is nonflammable. It is slightly soluble in water, and soluble in most other organic solvents.
Further information
The National Pollutant Inventory (NPI) holds data for all sources of Trichloroethylene in Australia.
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