TrichloroetheleneProperties of trichloroethylene is described below PHYSICAL STATE; APPEARANCE:
COLOURLESS LIQUID , WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.
PHYSICAL DANGERS:
The vapour is heavier than air. As a result of flow, agitation, etc., electrostatic charges can be generated.
CHEMICAL DANGERS:
On contact with hot surfaces or flames this substance decomposes forming toxic and corrosive fumes ( phosgene , hydrogen chloride ). The substance decomposes on contact with strong alkali producing dichloroacetylene , which increases fire hazard. Reacts violently with metal powders such as magnesium, aluminium, titanium, and barium. Slowly decomposed by light in presence of moisture, with formation of corrosive hydrochloric acid.
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS:
TLV: 50 ppm as TWA; 100 ppm as STEL; A5; BEI issued; (ACGIH 2004).
MAK:
Carcinogen category: 1; Germ cell mutagen group: 3B;
(DFG 2004).
OSHA PEL: TWA 100 ppm C 200 ppm 300 ppm (5-minute maximum peak in any 2 hours)
NIOSH REL: Ca
NIOSH IDLH: Potential occupational carcinogen 1000 ppm ROUTES OF EXPOSURE:
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and by ingestion.
INHALATION RISK:
A harmful contamination of the air can be reached rather quickly on evaporation of this substance at 20°C.
EFFECTS OF SHORT-TERM EXPOSURE:
The substance is irritating to the eyes and the skin . Swallowing the liquid may cause aspiration into the lungs with the risk of chemical pneumonitis. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system , resulting in respiratory failure . Exposure could cause lowering of consciousness.
EFFECTS OF LONG-TERM OR REPEATED EXPOSURE:
Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The substance may have effects on the central nervous system , resulting in loss of memory. The substance may have effects on the liver and kidneys (see Notes). This substance is probably carcinogenic to humans. Click here for help with converting units
For more information see website:
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ipcsneng/neng0081.html | 
