Perchlorethylene – C2CL4

This page tetrachloroethylene  or  perchlorethylene  ( C2Cl4 gas ) provides information about: properties, health effects, detection tools – perchlorethylene detector  – and appropriate respiratory protective equipment – ​​gas mask or with type A gas filter PAPR .

Properties of perchlorethylene (C2CL4)

Tetrachloroethylene ( C2Cl4 ) - most perchlorethylene – known as – is the most commonly used solvent for dry cleaning. It is also used as a degreaser in textile processing, printing, and the automobile and steel industries. It is also used in consumer products such as paint solvents or to remove stains.

  • CAS
  • 127-18-4

  • TWA (8 hours)

  • 20ppm

  • STEL (15 minutes)

  • 40 ppm

  • LEL

  • –
  • IP
  • 9.32 eV

  • DENSITY/AIR
  • 5.8

  • FILTER/SCBA
  • A

Health effects of perchloroethylene

Perchlorethylene ( C2Cl4 ), is a colorless liquid with an ether odor. It is very volatile and almost non-flammable. IARC classifies this as category 2A potential carcinogenic substance It is classified as (R40). It can also cause irritation to the eyes, dizziness, nausea, headache, memory loss and drowsiness, which can lead to unconsciousness and death.

*IARC: International Agency for Research on Cancer (WHO is affiliated with the World Health Organization)

PERCHLORETHYLENE DETECTOR – C2CL4 GAS

Although C2Cl4 gas can be detected by the smell of ether, only a perchlorethylene detector can accurately measure concentrations of this toxic gas. Therefore, it is necessary to use a fixed or portable perchlorethylene detection system that performs measurements in ppm.

C2Cl4 Respiratory protection – Perchlorethylene gas

To obtain appropriate respiratory protection against perchlorethylene, it is recommended to wear a half mask or full face mask for short applications. During longer operations, it is preferable to use a full-power air-purifying respirator. Both devices must be equipped with a type A filter cartridge.