Perchloroethylene (PCE, PERC)

Product Overview

Perchloroethylene (PCE, PERC) is a colorless, volatile liquid with a characteristic sweet odor, widely utilized as a high‑purity solvent in dry cleaning, metal degreasing, and manufacturing processes. This product is supplied with ACS Reagent Grade quality and USP‑NF monograph compliance, reflecting stringent control of impurities to meet demanding industrial specifications. Its non‑flammable classification in typical handling scenarios, combined with excellent solvency for a broad range of organic substrates, makes PCE a dependable choice for solvent systems requiring low hydrolysis potential, low water content, and high purity. Typical assay ranges of 99.8% with a valid tolerance ensure consistent performance across production batches, while low residue after ignition supports clean residue profiles in sensitive processing lines. This documentation aligns with industry standards and best practices for laboratory and manufacturing environments that demand traceable quality, precise composition, and robust purity controls.

The product is suitable for use in dry cleaning solvent cycles, degreasing of metal parts, and as an intermediate in chemical syntheses where controlled volatility and solvency are essential. With a vapor density greater than air and a boiling range near 121–122°C, users can optimize vapor management, exposure control, and recovery processes in accordance with applicable occupational safety guidelines. The material’s density, refractive index, and limited water miscibility further support reproducible solvent behavior in closed and semi‑closed systems used by researchers and industry professionals.

Key Properties

• Appearance: Colorless liquid
• Chemical Formula: C₂Cl₄
• Molecular Weight: 165.83 g/mol
• Boiling Point: 121–122°C
• Melting Point: −22°C
• Density (25°C): 1.622 g/mL
• Vapor Density: 2.2 (relative to air)
• Vapor Pressure (20°C): 8 mmHg
• Flash Point: 11°C (52°F)
• Solubility in Water: Insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents
• Refractive Index (20°C): 1.462
• Storage Conditions: Inert atmosphere recommended; store in HDPE or glass containers

Common Applications

• Application Category: Dry Cleaning Solvent — Employed for effective stain removal and fabric care in textile processing, with controlled solvency for a wide range of fibers.
• Application Category: Degreasing Agent — Used to cleanse metal parts and machinery due to strong solvency and compatible volatility profile.
• Application Category: Chemical Intermediate — Serves as a precursor in syntheses of various solvents and specialty chemicals, enabling multi‑step manufacturing workflows.
• Application Category: Laboratory Solvent — Used in extraction, chromatography, and sample preparation workflows within research facilities and analytical laboratories.
• Application Category: Adhesive Component — Incorporated into formulations for adhesives and sealants to enhance performance characteristics and solvent release properties.
• Application Category: Process Cleaning — Suitable for equipment and process line cleaning where low residues and high purity are required.

Safety Precautions

Handling and storage should be conducted under a cool, dry environment with adequate ventilation. Use containers made of HDPE or glass, avoid contact with oxidizers and acids, and maintain closed systems where feasible to minimize vapor exposure. PPE such as chemical‑resistant gloves, splash goggles, and appropriate lab coats or coveralls are recommended. Store away from heat sources and direct sunlight to reduce vapor pressure buildup and potential inhalation exposure. Ensure adequate signage and training in accordance with OSHA and local regulations for flammable solvents, even though the material is typically classified as non‑flammable under standard handling conditions.

In case of spills or exposure, follow emergency procedures outlined in the SDS: evacuate non‑essential personnel, ventilate the area, and use absorbent materials to contain the spill. For inhalation exposure, move the affected person to fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms develop. For skin or eye contact, rinse with plenty of water and remove contaminated clothing; if irritation persists, obtain medical care. This product is classified as Flammable Liquid 2 and requires careful handling to prevent ignition sources and uncontrolled vapor accumulation.

Benefits

✔ High Purity Consistency – Assay range of 99–100.5% with a typical of 99.8% supports consistent solvent performance across batches.
✔ Low Impurity Profile – Residue after ignition typically 0.005% (typical) and chloride/metal impurities kept well below stringent limits to minimize residues in processing and analytical workflows.