About Trichloroethylene

• Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C2HCl3.
• It consists of two carbon atoms, one hydrogen atom, and three chlorine atoms arranged as a chlorinated hydrocarbon.
• It is primarily used as an industrial solvent for degreasing metal parts and is also found in printing inks, varnishes, adhesives, rubber processing, paint strippers, and dyeing operations.
• Historically, it was employed as a volatile anesthetic and for food industry uses like coffee decaffeination, but these uses have been discontinued due to health risks.

Health Effects of Trichloroethylene

• Acute Exposure: Short-term inhalation or skin contact with TCE can cause dizziness, headache, confusion, nausea, and respiratory irritation. High concentrations can lead to loss of consciousness or coma.
• Chronic Exposure: Long-term exposure affects multiple organs including the liver, kidneys, and nervous system. It can cause liver damage, kidney toxicity, and neurotoxicity.
• Carcinogenicity: TCE is classified as a human carcinogen. It has been linked to increased risks of kidney cancer, liver cancer, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
• Neurological Impact: Studies, including recent ones in 2025, have shown a connection between TCE exposure and an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease due to its neurotoxic effects.
• Immunological Effects: TCE exposure may lead to immunosuppression and autoimmune diseases.
• Routes of Exposure: Mainly via inhalation of fumes, skin absorption, and less commonly ingestion of contaminated water or soil.

Stricter regulations were introduced in the U.S. after scientific evidence confirmed serious health risks from trichloroethylene (TCE), including a newly established link to Parkinson’s disease, leading to phased bans and longer compliance deadlines.

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