Trichloroethylene – High-Purity Industrial and Laboratory Solvent

Description

Trichloroethylene is a high-purity, non-flammable solvent widely used in industrial and laboratory settings. Known for its strong solvency power, it effectively dissolves oils, greases, waxes, and resins, making it ideal for degreasing, metal cleaning, and chemical extraction. Trichloroethylene’s stability and efficiency in removing contaminants make it essential in manufacturing, aerospace, and various cleaning applications.

Applications of Trichloroethylene:

• Metal De-greasing:
  • Primarily used in vapor de-greasing for cleaning metal parts in manufacturing. Its strong solvency effectively removes oils, greases, and contaminants from metal surfaces, making it essential in automotive, aerospace, and heavy machinery industries.
• Electronics and Precision Cleaning:
  • Ideal for cleaning electronic components, circuit boards, and other precision equipment, as it leaves no residue and ensures contaminant-free surfaces in sensitive devices.
• Chemical Synthesis and Pharmaceuticals:
  • Employed as a chemical intermediate in the production of refrigerants, adhesives, and other fluorinated compounds. Its high purity and stability make it useful in the pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing sectors.
• Textile and Fabric Cleaning:
  • Historically used in the textile industry for dry cleaning and stain removal. It helps dissolve oils, waxes, and other stains, though its use in this sector is limited due to regulatory restrictions in some regions.
• Aerospace and Automotive Industry:
  • In the aerospace sector, it is used for precision cleaning and de-greasing of sensitive parts, such as hydraulic systems and fuel lines. In the automotive industry, it is applied in cleaning engines, transmission components, and mechanical parts.
• Extraction Solvent:
  • Utilized in chemical and biochemical extraction processes due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of organic compounds. It is effective in separating and purifying specific compounds in laboratory and industrial settings.
• Plastic and Rubber Manufacturing:
  • Serves as a solvent and cleaning agent in the production and molding of plastics and rubber, helping to maintain clean surfaces and enhance bonding in synthetic materials.
• Paint and Coating Removal:
  • Applied as an effective solvent for removing paints, coatings, and adhesives, particularly in industrial equipment and machinery maintenance.

🔒 Storage Guidelines:

• Store Trichloroethylene in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and ignition points.
• Keep the container tightly sealed when not in use to prevent evaporation and contamination.
• Recommended storage temperature: Between 5°C to 25°C (41°F to 77°F).
• Store in approved containers made of metal or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) that are resistant to solvents.
• Keep away from strong oxidizers, acids, alkalis, and reactive metals like aluminum and magnesium.
• Do not store near food, beverages, or drinking water supplies to avoid accidental contamination.

⚠️ Handling Precautions:

• Always handle Trichloroethylene in a well-ventilated area or use local exhaust ventilation to prevent vapor accumulation.
• Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and chemical-resistant clothing to avoid skin and eye contact.
• Use a proper respirator if ventilation is insufficient or if handling large quantities.
• Avoid inhalation of vapors, as Trichloroethylene can cause serious respiratory and central nervous system effects.
• Do not smoke or use open flames near Trichloroethylene, as its vapors are flammable at high temperatures.
• Use non-sparking tools to reduce the risk of ignition.

🚫 Avoid:

• Avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents, as this can cause a violent reaction.
• Do not mix with acids, as this can form toxic gases such as phosgene.
• Avoid prolonged or repeated exposure to vapors, as Trichloroethylene is classified as a carcinogen.
• Prevent spills from reaching drains, sewers, or water bodies, as it is harmful to the environment.

🛢 Container Management:

• Store Trichloroethylene in approved, labeled containers that comply with local hazardous materials regulations.
• Ensure containers are airtight and corrosion-resistant.
• Regularly inspect containers for leaks, corrosion, or damage.
• Use secondary containment to catch potential spills or leaks.

♻️ Disposal Guidelines:

• Dispose of Trichloroethylene and its containers according to local, regional, and national hazardous waste regulations.
• Do not pour into drains or water sources.
• Use a certified hazardous waste disposal contractor for proper handling and disposal.