Details: Trichloroethylene is a chlorinated hydrocarbon that exists as a non-flammable liquid. It is primarily used as an industrial solvent, highly effective for removing grease from metal surfaces. Additionally, it has been utilized as a dry-cleaning agent and stain remover.
Its powerful degreasing properties made TCE widely popular in the manufacturing industry.
Historically, it was the go-to solvent for cleaning the interiors of kerosene-powered internal combustion engines, including those in jet aircraft. Reusable rocket engines were also frequently cleaned with this solvent.
Technical Specifications:
- Chemical Name: Trichloroethylene (TCE)
- CAS Number: 79-01-6
- Molecular Formula: C₂HCl₃
- Molecular Weight: 131.39 g/mol
- Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
- Odor: Sweet, chloroform-like odor
- Purity: ≥ 99%
- Boiling Point: 87°C (188.6°F)
- Melting Point: -73°C (-99.4°F)
- Density: 1.46 g/cm³ at 20°C
- Flash Point: Non-flammable
- Vapor Pressure: 57 mmHg at 20°C
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water (1 g/100 mL) but highly soluble in alcohol, ether, and most organic solvents
- Refractive Index: 1.4775 at 20°C
- Viscosity: 0.54 cP at 25°C
Chemical Properties
- Non-Flammable: Trichloroethylene is non-flammable under normal conditions, making it safer for high-temperature processes.
- Stability: Chemically stable under normal storage conditions but should be kept away from strong oxidizing agents.
- Solvency Power: Effective at dissolving oils, greases, resins, and other non-polar organic compounds.
