Trichloroethylene (TCE)

Also known as TCE, trichloroethylene is an organic chemical compound with a sweet, chloroform-like odor. The chemical compound TCE is non-flammable, blue in appearance, and is commonly confused with chloroethene (1,1,1-trichloroethane.) TCE is a halocarbon prevalent in the industrial and medical industries with the chemical formula C₂HCI₃.

The main use of TCE is in metal degreasing works and the production of solvent for various organic materials like fats, greases, tars, oils, and as a refrigerant. It is also used in coffee dehydration as well as in the extraction of vegetable oils. TCE is also a clean drying solvent, before its replacement in the 1950s.

Trichloroethylene in drinking water is dangerous to human health as it can damage the kidneys, liver, heart, nervous system, respiratory system, and immune system. Chronic exposure to the chemical contaminant TCE may increase the risk of acquiring cancer. Drinking water with traces of TCE may increase the occurrence of congenital heart disease in children.

The most common filtration method for removing TCE to below the MCL level is granular activated carbon (GAC) filtration. With most water filter systems equipped with activated carbon, households can prevent the health risks associated with TCE in drinking water. With a reliable filtration unit, you can keep your family safe and protected from chemical contaminants like trichloroethylene.