TCE (Trichloroethylene)

TSCA Ten: Snapshots of the first 10 chemicals to be reviewed under the new TSCA

Updated: August 2018

Summary: An overhaul in 2016 of the main U.S. chemical safety law, the Toxic Substances Control Act, required EPA to choose the first 10 chemicals for risk evaluation. TCE, one of the first 10 chemicals, is a chemical used in dry cleaning, cleaning wipes, adhesives, and a range of other products. EPA has classified it as a known carcinogen. It's also linked to neurological damage and birth defects.

In December 2016 and January 2017, EPA proposed two rules to ban use of TCE in aerosol degreasers, spot cleaners, and vapor degreasing. Unfortunately, the agency has abandoned finalization of these proposed bans.

What kinds of products may use it?

  • Stain removers (for clothes or carpet)
  • Aerosol degreasers
  • Cleaning wipes
  • Adhesives and sealants
  • Adhesive for lace wigs and hair extensions
  • Lubricants
  • Tap and die fluid (lubricant used for metal working)
  • Paints and coatings
  • Arts and crafts
  • Automotive care

What hazards does it pose?

  • Known human carcinogen
  • Developmental toxicity;
  • Immunotoxicity
  • Neurotoxicity
  • Moderately persistent in the environment

Who may be exposed or most at risk?

  • Workers and occupational bystanders in TCE manufacturing and processing industries or using commercial products containing TCE
  • Pregnant women/developing fetus/children
  • People that depend on water sources contaminated with TCE
  • People that live near industrial or commercial facilities that use TCE

Production profile (2015)

  • U.S. manufacture (production and import): 171,929,400 lbs
  • Number of manufacturers: At least 10
  • Number of manufacturing sites: 13

What industries use it?

  • Vapor degreasing
  • Refrigerant manufacturing
  • Dry cleaning and laundry
  • Clothing or textile treating
  • Chemical manufacturing

TCE additional resources

Perc
1,4-dioxane