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Chlorinated Solvents
PCE, TCE & more — ACS and technical grade
4 products
About Chlorinated Solvents
About Chlorinated Solvents
Chlorinated Solvents are a class of halogenated hydrocarbons, including Trichloroethylene (TCE) (CAS 79-01-6) and Perchloroethylene (PCE) (CAS 127-18-4), utilized for their high solvency power and non-flammable characteristics. These industrial chemicals are the primary agents for heavy-duty vapor degreasing, precision metal cleaning, and chemical intermediate synthesis. Their ability to dissolve non-polar contaminants such as oils, waxes, and greases without damaging metal substrates makes them essential in high-tolerance manufacturing environments.
Common Applications
- Vapor Degreasing: Utilizing TCE or PCE in a heated sump to create a solvent vapor zone that removes heavy machining oils from complex metal parts at temperatures between 87°C and 121°C.
- Asphalt and Road Testing: Extracting bitumen from pavement samples to determine binder content and aggregate graduation in compliance with ASTM D2172 standards.
- Precision Metal Cleaning: Removing lubricants and contaminants from aerospace and automotive components where zero-residue finishes are required before finishing or assembly.
- Adhesive and Coating Removal: Stripping high-strength industrial resins and coatings from equipment and surfaces during maintenance cycles.
- Chemical Extraction: Using ACS Grade Perchloroethylene as a laboratory solvent for extracting fats and oils in research and pharmaceutical processing.
- Dry Cleaning Operations: Professional garment cleaning using stabilized PCE to remove stains that water-based detergents cannot penetrate.
- Textile Processing: Scouring and sizing in fabric manufacturing to ensure uniform dye uptake and material integrity.
What We Carry
Alliance Chemical stocks high-purity chlorinated solvents in various grades to meet specific industrial and laboratory requirements. We provide standard technical grades for bulk industrial use and ACS-certified grades for analytical applications where trace impurities must be minimized.
| Grade | Purity | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Technical Grade | >99.0% | Industrial degreasing, asphalt testing, and adhesive stripping. |
| ACS Grade | >99.9% | Analytical laboratory research, pharmaceutical synthesis, and precision electronics. |
Available packaging includes 1-quart bottles, 1-gallon containers, 5-gallon pails, and 55-gallon drums for high-volume operations.
Safety & Handling
Chlorinated Solvents are classified under GHS07 (Exclamation Mark) and GHS08 (Health Hazard) due to potential carcinogenicity and toxicity. Handling requires Viton™ or Silver Shield® gloves, as standard nitrile gloves offer poor breakthrough times against TCE and PCE; chemical splash goggles and local exhaust ventilation or a NIOSH-approved respirator are mandatory if PEL limits are exceeded. In accordance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1000, employers must monitor exposure limits, and spent solvents must be managed as hazardous waste under EPA RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) codes F001 or F002. Storage should be in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizers and reactive metals like aluminum or magnesium powder, adhering to NFPA 704 ratings (Health: 2, Flammability: 1). If skin contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes; if inhaled, move the victim to fresh air immediately. For full details, refer to the Safety Data Sheets.
Sourcing & Quality
Shipped from Taylor, Texas — same-day on in-stock items.
COA included with every order. Certificate of Analysis documents lot-specific purity and specifications.
28 years serving 55,000+ customers including 244 federal contracts.
✓ SDS Included ✓ COA Available &zap; Same-Day Shipping ☆ No Minimum Order
Last updated: March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Trichloroethylene (TCE) currently banned by the EPA for industrial use?
As of early 2026, the EPA is implementing phased restrictions on TCE under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), specifically targeting most consumer uses and certain industrial applications. However, specific exemptions remain for critical applications like vapor degreasing in the aerospace and defense industries, provided stringent Workplace Chemical Protection Programs (WCPP) are followed. Users should consult the latest EPA Risk Management Rules for TCE to ensure compliance with specific use-case deadlines.
What is the difference between TCE and PCE for vapor degreasing?
Trichloroethylene (TCE) has a lower boiling point (87°C) and higher solvency power (Kauri-Butanol value of 130), making it more effective for removing heavy, high-melt-point greases. Perchloroethylene (PCE) has a higher boiling point (121°C) and a Kauri-Butanol value of 90, which is preferable for removing moisture from parts or cleaning components with higher-temperature contaminants. PCE is also generally considered more stable and less prone to acidification during the boiling process compared to TCE.
How should chlorinated solvents be disposed of according to RCRA?
Spent chlorinated solvents like TCE and PCE are classified as listed hazardous wastes under EPA RCRA regulations, typically carrying waste codes F001 (degreasing) or F002 (general solvent use). These materials must be collected in compatible, closed containers, labeled correctly, and transported by a licensed hazardous waste hauler to a TSDF (Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facility). Federal law prohibits the disposal of these solvents in municipal drains or on the ground due to groundwater contamination risks.
What PPE is required for handling Perchloroethylene under OSHA 1910.132?
Under OSHA 1910.132, employers must provide appropriate PPE based on a hazard assessment, which for PCE includes chemical-resistant gloves made of Viton™ or specialized laminate materials, as PCE permeates nitrile and latex rapidly. Chemical splash goggles or a full-face shield are required to prevent ocular exposure, and if vapor concentrations exceed the OSHA PEL of 100 ppm (8-hour TWA), a NIOSH-approved respirator with organic vapor cartridges must be utilized. Protective aprons should be worn to prevent skin absorption through clothing.
Can Perchloroethylene ACS Grade be used for laboratory extraction?
Yes, Perchloroethylene ACS Grade meets the stringent purity standards set by the American Chemical Society, making it suitable for analytical laboratory extraction and chemical synthesis. It is frequently used in the extraction of fats, oils, and waxes from organic matter where high purity is required to prevent sample contamination. Because of its high density (1.62 g/cm³), it is also effective for liquid-liquid extractions where it forms the bottom layer in aqueous mixtures.
How do I prevent acid breakdown of chlorinated solvents in a degreaser?
Chlorinated solvents can undergo hydrolysis or thermal breakdown, forming corrosive hydrochloric acid, especially when exposed to moisture and reactive metals like aluminum. To prevent this, users should utilize 'stabilized' grades of TCE or PCE which contain acid acceptors and antioxidants. Regular testing of the solvent's pH and acid-neutralizing capacity using a field test kit is recommended to determine when stabilizer replenishment or solvent distillation is necessary.
What are the DOT shipping requirements for Trichloroethylene?
Trichloroethylene is regulated by the DOT under 49 CFR Part 172 as a Class 6.1 Toxic Substance, UN1710, Packing Group III. Shipping containers must be marked with the Proper Shipping Name, UN number, and Toxic placards for bulk shipments. For smaller quantities, Limited Quantity exemptions may apply depending on the inner packaging size, but a manifest and proper hazardous material shipping papers are almost always required for B2B transport.
How should TCE and PCE be stored according to NFPA 30 standards?
Although chlorinated solvents have high flash points and are often considered non-flammable, they should be stored in accordance with NFPA 30 guidelines for stable liquids. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and incompatible materials like strong bases, reactive metals, and oxidizing agents. Containers must remain tightly sealed when not in use to prevent the escape of vapors, which are heavier than air and can accumulate in low-lying areas.
Guides & Resources
Trichloroethylene (TCE) & Vapor Degreasing: A Comprehensive Industrial Guide
Read article →
TCE Ban Explained: Can You Still Buy Trichloroethylene?
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How Trichloroethylene (TCE) Powers Road Recycling: A Key Ingredient in Sustainable Pavement Reclamation"
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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Solvent for Industrial Cleaning
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