Trichloroethylene used in many
industry applications

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a chlorinated hydrocarbon commonly used as a solvent and in various industrial applications. Here are some of its primary uses:

1. Metal Degreasing: TCE is widely used in the manufacturing sector for degreasing metal parts. Its effectiveness at dissolving oils, fats, and greases makes it a popular choice for preparing metal surfaces for finishing processes like painting or plating.
2. Dry Cleaning: Historically, TCE was used as a solvent in dry cleaning operations due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of organic materials without damaging fabrics. However, its use in this application has significantly declined due to environmental and health concerns.
3. Chemical Intermediate: TCE serves as a precursor in the production of hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants. It is involved in the synthesis of several important chemicals, including the refrigerant gas HFC-134a.
4. Vapor Degreasing: In addition to liquid-phase degreasing, TCE is used in vapor degreasing systems where its vapors condense on cooler metal parts, effectively dissolving contaminants. This method is especially useful for intricate parts where physical cleaning methods are impractical.
5. Extraction Solvent: TCE is used as a solvent in the extraction of specific compounds from mixtures due to its selective solvency properties. This application spans industries such as pharmaceuticals, where it can extract certain active ingredients during manufacturing processes.
6. Anesthetic: Historically, TCE was used as an inhalation anesthetic in surgical procedures. However, its medical use has been largely abandoned due to safety concerns and the development of safer alternatives.
7. Paint Remover: TCE is effective at removing paint and varnish coatings. It is a component in some paint strippers and varnish removers, helping to break down and dissolve the paint for easy removal.
8. Spot Cleaning: In certain industrial applications, TCE is used for spot cleaning on textiles and garments to remove grease or oil stains before or after manufacturing processes.
9. Electronic Component Cleaning: TCE's ability to dissolve greases and fluxes without damaging electronic components makes it suitable for cleaning in the electronics manufacturing industry, particularly in the preparation and maintenance of precision devices.
10. Research Applications: In scientific research, TCE is used as a solvent in chemistry laboratories for reactions and analyses that require a non-polar, chlorinated solvent.