CAS 79-01-6 Trichloroethylene (TCE) and CAS 127-18-4 tetrachloroethylene (PCE, also known as perchloroethylene) are both widely used chlorinated solvents in industrial applications. While they share similar chemical properties, their performance, uses differ significantly.
What Is Trichloroethylene (TCE)?
Trichloroethylene is a man-made chemical that does not occur naturally in the environment. The clear, colorless, nonflammable liquid evaporates quickly and has a sweet chloroform-like scent.
What Is Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)?
Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) is a nonflammable, liquid solvent widely used in dry cleaning, wood processing, fabric manufacturing, and metal degreasing. In homes, it may be found in suede protectors, paint removers, furniture stripper, water repellents, silicone lubricants, spot removers, glues, and wood cleaners.
Key Differences Between CAS 79-01-6 TCE and CAS 127-18-4 PCE
| Property | Trichloroethylene (TCE) | Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₂HCl₃ | C₂Cl₄ |
| Boiling Point | ~87°C | ~121°C |
| Evaporation Rate | Fast | Moderate |
| Cleaning Strength | Very strong | Strong |
| Residue | Low | Very low |
| Stability | Moderate (needs stabilizers) | High |
| Common Uses | Precision cleaning | Dry cleaning, heavy degreasing |
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Industrial Applications Differences
CAS 79-01-6 Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a powerful industrial organic solvent. It is primarily used to remove grease, oil, and wax from metal parts and is also a raw material for the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), pesticides, and flame retardants. Additionally, it can be added to specialty adhesives, correction fluids, paints, varnishes, and paint removers.
CAS 127-18-4 Tetrachloroethylene (PCE/PERC) possesses stable properties and excellent cleaning capabilities. It is a core solvent in garment dry cleaning and is widely used for steam degreasing in metal cleaning. In chemical production, it aids in the preparation of trichloroacetic acid and fluorinated compounds and is also commonly used in aerosols, solvent soaps, printing inks, adhesives, and sealants for consumer and industrial products.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose TCE solvent if you need:
Fast drying and quick processing
Precision cleaning (electronics, aerospace)
Strong solvency for light oils and residues
Choose PCE solvent if you need:
Greater chemical stability
Slower evaporation for extended cleaning
Applications like textile dry cleaning or heavy-duty degreasing
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