Tetrachloroethylene

CAS number 127-18-4

Description

Tetrachloroethylene appears as a clear colourless volatile liquid having an ether-like odour. Non-combustible. Insoluble in water, vapours heavier than air.

Uses

Tetrachloroethylene can be found in processes around dry cleaning, metal degreasing and extraction processes and as a chemical intermediary in manufacturing.

It has been found in surface and drinking water sources.

Indoor air exposure of tetrachloroethylene is likely to be low, unless you live in the vicinity of a dry-cleaning company or industrial processing area.

Why it can be problematic for human and animal health

Exposure to tetrachloroethylene can be by inhalation, ingestion or dermal contact.

Tetrachloroethylene is shown in scientific literature as being associated with the following chronic health impacts:

Kidney and liver problems
Probable carcinogen – bladder cancer, multiple myeloma, lymphoma
Neurotoxicity – effects of fatigue, dizziness, tiredness, confusion and cognitive impairment at significant levels
Effects within the female reproductive and infant development system have been noted

Acute exposure of humans to tetrachloroethylene leads to irritation of eyes, nose, throat and lungs or at a more extreme level, central nervous system depression, and respiratory complications/coma.

Please note any adverse health effects that you may encounter in exposure to a chemical depend on several factors, including the amount to which you are exposed (dose), the way you are exposed, the duration of exposure, the form of the chemical and if you were exposed to any other chemicals.