Air pollution

Tetrachloorethylene

Properties of tetrachloorethylene is described below

PHYSICAL STATE; APPEARANCE:
COLOURLESS LIQUID , WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

PHYSICAL DANGERS:
The vapour is heavier than air.

CHEMICAL DANGERS:
On contact with hot surfaces or flames this substance decomposes forming toxic and corrosive fumes (hydrogen chloride, phosgene, chlorine). The substance decomposes slowly on contact with moisture producing trichloroacetic acid and hydrochloric acid. Reacts with metals such as aluminium, lithium, barium, beryllium.

OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS:
TLV: 25 ppm; (STEL): 100 ppm; (ACGIH 1999).
OSHA PEL: TWA 100 ppm C 200 ppm 300 ppm (5-minute maximum peak in any 3-hours)
NIOSH REL: Ca Minimize workplace exposure concentrations.
NIOSH IDLH: Potential occupational carcinogen 150 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 will be reached rather slowly on evaporation of this substance at 20°C.

EFFECTS OF SHORT-TERM EXPOSURE:
The substance irritates the eyes, the skin and the respiratory tract. 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. Exposure at high levels may result in unconsciousness.

EFFECTS OF LONG-TERM OR REPEATED EXPOSURE:
Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The substance may have effects on the liver and kidneys. This substance is probably carcinogenic to humans.

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For more information see website:
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ipcsneng/neng0076.html