Trichloroethylene

T**richloroethylene (TCE)** Trichloroethylene was first commercially produced in Germany in the early 1900s but is believed to have been discovered in 1864. It is not known who exactly first discovered the substance.
 * Name of person/people that discovered it:**

TCE is a colorless, odorless liquid. It is most frequently used as solvent to remove grease from metal. It can also be an ingredient in adhesive and paint removers. It is also used as an intermediate during the production of hydro fluorocarbon, which is a refrigerant. It is also used for cleaning agents. The uses of TCE can be broken down into three categories. It can first be used as a chemical intermediate for certain refrigerant hydrofluorcarbons. This accounts for 54% of its industrial use. 42% of the manufactured TCE is used in metal cleaning and degreasing. Its low flammability, high solvency, non-corrosiveness, and high stability make it a good cleaning agent. 4% of TCE is used miscellaneous instances.
 * What was/is it used for**

Products where TCE is a component are certain adhesives, lubricants, paints, varnishes, paint strippers, pesticides and cold metal cleaners. It is also found in flame-retardants and insecticides. It is used as a solvent to extract greases and oils. Also, the textile industry uses TCE to scour its fabrics. It is also used as a refrigerant.
 * What products are made from the substance? (with pictures):**

In general, TCE cause nerves, kidney and liver damage when breathed in for a long time. Studies have also shown that high levels of TCE increase liver, kidney, and lung cancer risk.
 * Why is it considered hazardous?**

Exposer to TCE is usually through inhalation. Breathing in air around homes that have been contaminated by TCE through spot removers or typewriter correction fluids. But mostly, one is exposed as a result of drinking, swimming or showering in water that has been contaminated by the substance. Many groundwater sources have high TCE levels because the substance does not dissolve well in water and because of industrial waste. Also, contact with soil with TCE contamination (usually near a hazardous waste site) and contact with the substance through air and skin while manufacturing or using the substance to wash paint or grease are ways to be exposed to TCE.
 * Where might we be exposed to this substance?**

Breathing in Small amounts of TCE can cause headaches, dizziness, lung irritation, and difficulty concentrating. Also sleepiness, confusion, and euphoria are common symptoms of short term exposure. Breathing in large amounts of the substance can impair heart function, unconsciousness, and can eventually cause death.