Trichloroethylene

Trichloroethylene (TCE): An Industrial Solvent Guide, Applications, and Global Sourcing

Trichloroethylene (TCE). Known in the scientific community by its IUPAC name 1,1,2-trichloroethene, and recognized globally by its chemical formula $C_2HCl_3$, this clear, colorless, and volatile liquid has served as the backbone of degreasing and solvent cleaning operations for nearly a century.

At ChemicalsSuppliers.com, we recognize that sourcing high-purity industrial chemicals requires more than just finding a vendor; it requires a partnership built on chemical expertise, safety compliance, and supply chain reliability. Whether you are in the aerospace, automotive, or electronics industry, understanding the intricacies of TCE is crucial for your operational success.


What is Trichloroethylene (TCE)? Understanding the Fundamentals

Trichloroethylene is a chlorinated hydrocarbon. Because of its low viscosity and high density, it exhibits excellent penetrating properties, allowing it to dissolve greases, oils, resins, tars, and waxes with unmatched efficiency.

Chemical Profile

  • CAS Number: 79-01-6
  • Molecular Weight: 131.39 g/mol
  • Boiling Point: 87.2°C (189°F)
  • Odor: Sweet, chloroform-like scent.
  • Solubility: Poorly soluble in water; miscible with most organic solvents.

In the global market, it is frequently referred to as TCETrichloroEthinyl Trichloride, and Acetylene Trichloride. Because it is non-flammable under normal conditions, it remains a preferred choice for vapor degreasing, even as regulatory landscapes evolve toward greener alternatives.


The Industrial Importance of TCE

Why do global manufacturers still rely on Trichloroethylene? The answer lies in its Kauri-Butanol (Kb) value. The Kb value measures the solvent power of a hydrocarbon solvent; TCE possesses a high Kb value (typically around 129), making it a “heavyweight champion” of degreasing.

Key Industrial Applications

  1. Vapor Degreasing: The gold standard for precision metal cleaning in the aerospace and medical device industries.
  2. Chemical Intermediate: TCE is a vital building block in the synthesis of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), such as HFC-134a, used in refrigeration.
  3. Adhesives and Sealants: It is used as a solvent in the manufacturing of specialty glues, ensuring quick drying times and superior bonding.
  4. Dry Cleaning: While less common today, it has historically served as a high-efficiency solvent for textile processing.
  5. Extraction Solvent: Used in specific pharmaceutical and chemical extraction processes where high purity is mandatory.

Comparing Prices: The Global TCE Market

Disclaimer: Prices fluctuate based on market demand, crude oil volatility, and shipping logistics. The following are estimates based on bulk industrial purchasing.

Quantity (MT) Estimated Price (USD/MT) Quality Grade
1–5 MT $1,200 – $1,500 Industrial Grade
5–20 MT $1,050 – $1,250 High Purity (>99.9%)
20+ MT (Bulk Tank) Quoted via Inquiry Specialty / Stabilized

To get the most accurate, real-time pricing for your specific region, please visit ChemicalsSuppliers.com/quote to connect with our procurement team.


50 Examples of Chemicals and Related Solvents Available at ChemicalsSuppliers.com

Our inventory goes beyond just Trichloroethylene. Below is a curated list of high-demand industrial chemicals available through our portal:

  1. Trichloroethylene (TCE)
  2. Perchloroethylene (PCE / PERC)
  3. Methylene Chloride (Dichloromethane)
  4. 1,1,1-Trichloroethane
  5. Acetone
  6. Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA)
  7. Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
  8. Toluene
  9. Xylene
  10. N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP)
  11. Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO)
  12. Cyclohexanone
  13. Ethyl Acetate
  14. Butyl Acetate
  15. Hexane
  16. Heptane
  17. Methanol
  18. Ethanol
  19. Ethylene Glycol
  20. Propylene Glycol
  21. Glycerin
  22. Caustic Soda (Sodium Hydroxide)
  23. Hydrochloric Acid
  24. Sulfuric Acid
  25. Nitric Acid
  26. Phosphoric Acid
  27. Hydrogen Peroxide
  28. Sodium Hypochlorite
  29. Dimethylformamide (DMF)
  30. Tetrahydrofuran (THF)
  31. Acetonitrile
  32. Benzene
  33. Chloroform
  34. Carbon Tetrachloride
  35. Dichloroethane
  36. Epichlorohydrin
  37. Vinyl Chloride Monomer
  38. Phenol
  39. Formaldehyde
  40. Acetic Acid
  41. Formic Acid
  42. Citric Acid
  43. Oxalic Acid
  44. Potassium Hydroxide
  45. Ammonia (Anhydrous)
  46. Ammonium Nitrate
  47. Urea
  48. Ethanolamine
  49. Diethanolamine
  50. Triethanolamine

Safety, Handling, and Environmental Compliance

Working with chlorinated solvents requires strict adherence to safety protocols. Regulatory bodies like the EPA and OSHA have established strict Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs).

Best Practices for Facilities:

  • Closed-Loop Systems: Always use automated vapor degreasing units to minimize atmospheric release.
  • Ventilation: Ensure high-efficiency local exhaust ventilation (LEV).
  • PPE: Utilize Viton or Silver Shield gloves, as standard nitrile or latex may not provide sufficient breakthrough protection against TCE.
  • Monitoring: Implement regular air quality testing in work zones to ensure levels remain below the threshold.

Why Choose ChemicalsSuppliers.com?

At ChemicalsSuppliers.com, we distinguish ourselves through three core pillars:

  1. Global Logistics: We navigate international trade regulations and chemical safety shipping standards (IMDG, IATA) to ensure your materials arrive on time.
  2. Quality Assurance: Every batch of Trichloroethylene is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA).
  3. Tailored Solutions: Whether you need 200kg drums, IBC totes, or ISO tank containers, we provide flexible supply options.

Visit our website today to start your procurement process.


Global Perspectives on TCE (Multi-Language Search Indexing)

To assist our international partners, we have compiled the nomenclature for Trichloroethylene across various languages:

  • Mandarin Chinese: 三氯乙烯 (Sān lǜ yǐ xī)
  • Hindi: ट्राइक्लोरोएथिलीन (Trichloroethylene)
  • Spanish: Tricloroetileno
  • Arabic: ثلاثي كلورو الإيثيلين
  • French: Trichloroéthylène
  • Korean: 트리클로로에틸렌
  • Cantonese: 三氯乙烯 (Saam-luk-yit-yī)
  • Portuguese: Tricloroetileno
  • Indonesian: Trikloroetilena
  • Russian: Трихлорэтилен
  • German: Trichlorethylen
  • Japanese: トリクロロエチレン
  • Vietnamese: Trichloroethylene
  • Shanghainese: 三氯乙烯
  • Turkish: Trikloroetilen

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is Trichloroethylene still legal to use?

Yes, but usage is highly regulated. In many jurisdictions, it is restricted for specific industrial applications and is prohibited for consumer products due to health risks. Always check your local environmental agency guidelines.

2. What are the common alternatives to TCE?

For companies looking to move away from TCE, alternatives like n-Propyl Bromide (nPB)Modified Alcohols, or specialized Hydrofluoroethers (HFEs) are frequently used, though they often carry different cost profiles and solvency capacities.

3. How should TCE be stored?

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and incompatible materials like strong alkalis or chemically active metals (e.g., aluminum powder).

4. How can I verify the purity of the chemicals I receive?

We provide a COA (Certificate of Analysis) with every shipment. You can also request an independent laboratory verification before finalizing your bulk purchase.


Conclusion: The Future of Industrial Solvents

As industry demands grow, the role of professional chemical procurement becomes increasingly vital. While the chemical landscape is shifting toward more sustainable and volatile-organic-compound (VOC) conscious solutions, Trichloroethylene remains an essential component for high-precision manufacturing.

By partnering with ChemicalsSuppliers.com, you gain access to a reliable supply chain, transparent pricing, and technical expertise that keeps your operations running smoothly. Whether you are scaling up production or seeking a more reliable supplier for your existing chemical needs, we are here to support your growth.

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