INFORMATION REGARDING TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/sis/search/f?./temp/~AnpzYV:1
TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
CASRN: 127-18-4
Human Health Effects:
Evidence for Carcinogenicity:
Evaluation: There is limited evidence in
humans for the carcinogenicity of tetrachloroethylene.
There is sufficient evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of tetrachloroethylene.
Overall evaluation: Tetrachloroethylene is probably
carcinogenic to humans (Group 2A). In making the overall evaluation, the working
group considered the following evidence: (1) Although tetrachloroethylene
is known to induce peroxisome proliferation in mouse liver, a poor quantitative
correlation was seen between peroxisome proliferation and tumor formation in the
liver after administration of tetrachloroethylene by
inhalation. The spectrum of mutations in proto-oncogenes in liver tumors from
mice treated with tetrachloroethylene is different from
that in liver tumors from mice treated with trichloroethylene. (2) The cmpd
induced leukemia in rats. (3) Several epidemiological studies showed elevated
risks for esophageal cancer, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and cervical cancer.
A3. A3= Animal carcinogen.
Human Toxicity Excerpts:
... acute hepatic necrosis and oliguric uremia
have followed human exposure.
/CNS depressant/ ... in high concentrations.
Defatting action on skin can lead to dermatitis.
Excessive exposure ... has resulted in effects
on the central nervous system, mucous membranes, eyes, & skin, & to a
lesser extent the lungs, liver, kidneys. The effects most frequently noted have
been on the nervous system. Unconsciousness, dizziness, headache, vertigo or
light ... /CNS depression/ have occurred in many instances after occupational
exposures.
Perchloroethylene has
been reported to produce effects on the liver in humans. The concn ... generally
appeared to be in excess of 100 ppm.
Several studies of the effects of prolonged
exposure to perchloroethylene vapors on human
volunteers are avail. ... Prolonged exposure to 200 ppm results in early signs
of CNS depression, while there was no response in men or women repeatedly
exposed to 100 ppm for 7 hr/day. Clinical chemical studies indicate no liver or
kidney effects at these levels but massive exposure to concentrations causing
unconsciousness have resulted in proteinuria & hematuria.
A CASE OF CNS DEPRESSION & 2 CASES OF
ACUTE OLIGURIC UREMIA AFTER INHALATION OF PERCHLORETHYLENE
VAPORS FROM NEWLY CLEANED CLOTHES IN A SELF-SERVICE DRY-CLEANING MACHINE ARE
REPORTED.
A PT IS REPORTED WHO HAD A CONNECTIVE TISSUE
TYPE OF DISEASE CLINICALLY SIMILAR TO VINYL CHLORIDE DISEASE, POSSIBLY CAUSED BY
ABNORMAL SENSITIVITY TO PERCHLORETHYLENE TO WHICH HE
WAS EXPOSED IN HIS OCCUPATION.
CHANGES IN NEUROLOGICAL NATURE OF WORKERS
EXPOSED TO TETRACHLOROETHYLENE AT GREATER THAN MAC
(MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE CONCENTRATION) WERE RELATED TO DEFECTIVE ACTION OF LIVER
& SUPRARENAL GLAND CORTEX. INCR IN AMINOTRANSFERASE IN BLOOD SERUM &
SLIGHT SHIFTS IN PROTEINOGRAMS OBSERVED.
SIX WK OLD BREAST-FED INFANT HAD OBSTRUCTIVE
JAUNDICE & HEPATOMEGALY. TETRACHLOROETHYLENE WAS
DETECTED IN MILK & BLOOD. AFTER DISCONTINUANCE OF BREAST-FEEDING RAPID
CLINICAL & BIOCHEM IMPROVEMENT WERE NOTED.
LYMPHOCYTES FROM 10 FACTORY WORKERS EXPOSED TO
TETRACHLOROETHYLENE FOR 3 MO TO 18 YR SHOWED NO
SIGNIFICANT DOSE-RELATED CHANGES IN CHROMOSOME ABERRATIONS, SISTER CHROMATID
EXCHANGE RATE, PROPORTION OF M2+M3 METAPHASES OR MITOTIC INDEX, COMPARED WITH
CONTROLS.
A new form of substance abuse in adolescents
is the inhalation of fumes from typewriter correction fluids (Liquid Paper, Wite-Out,
Snopake, etc), which are composed of various chlorinated solvents, /including tetrachloroethylene/,
to induce euphoria. Medical complications of such abuse and medical management
of acute toxic episodes are discussed herein, along with suggestions for
controlling this substance abuse.
After ingestion of 12-16 g tetrachloroethylene,
a 6 year old boy was admitted to the clinic in coma. In view of the high initial
tetrachloroethylene blood level, hyperventilation
therapy was performed. Under this therapeutic regimen, the clinical condition of
the patient improved considerably. The tetrachloroethylene
blood level profile which was determined under hyperventilation therapy could be
computer fitted to a two compartment model. Elimination of tetrachloroethylene
from the blood compartment occurred via a rapid and a slow process with
half-lives of 30 min and 35 hours, respectively. These values compared favorably
with the half-lives of 160 min and 33 hours under normal respiratory conditions.
During hyperventilation therapy, the relative contribution to the fast
elimination process increased from 70% for physiological minute volume to 99.9%.
A minor fraction of the ingested dose was excreted with the urine (integral of
1% during the first 3 days). In contrast to previous results, trace amounts of
unchanged tetrachloroethylene were detected in the
urine besides trichloroacetic acid and trichloroethanol.
Pulmonary edema occurred in a laundry worker
who was found unconscious after exposure to tetrachloroethylene
vapor. ... Multiple premature ventricular contractions in otherwise healthy
workers have been reported in occupational tetrachloroethylene
exposures, but no direct link with sudden death has been made. Chronic exposure
has not produced cardiovascular toxicity.
A 68 year old launderette worker was
anesthetised & suffered erythema & 30% superficial burns after spilling
a container of tetrachloroethylene over his clothes.
The defatting property of tetrachloroethylene would
lead to cracking of damaged skin.
A 21 year old man who had been exposed to
fumes of tetrachloroethylene developed acute pulmonary
edema & became comatose. He received isoprenaline 800 ug in 1 l of dextrose
injection iv, furosemide 40 mg, aminophylline 250 mg, & dexamethasone 10 mg
iv. Oxygen was admin. After 6 hr, improvement was noted. No evidence of liver or
kidney damage was seen.
... Residual organ damage is not commonly
observed in humans who have been exposed to large quantities of the compound. Tetrachloroethylene
was formerly used widely as an intestinal anthelminthic. ... Oral doses of 2.8
to 4.0 ml given for this purpose were quite effective & safe. Inebriation
was the only troublesome side effect that was noted in 46,000 treated patients.
Inhalation of tetrachloroethylene sufficient to produce
inebriation & unconsciousness has failed to elicit hepatic, renal, or
hematological abnormalities in some individuals. However, in other cases, mild
to severe hepatotoxicity has been diagnosed. In most such instances, liver
injury was not manifest until several days after exposure. Recovery was
uneventful, but sometimes prolonged, particularly in the more severe cases. Tetrachloroethylene
was quite slowly eliminated, in that approx 1 ppm tetrachloroethylene
was measured in the breath of victims as long as 11 to 12 days after exposure.
Little evidence of kidney injury or damage of any other organ was noted in any
of the aforementioned cases. ...
Acute exposure to tetrachloroethylene
by inhalation results in central nervous system depression. Liver & kidney
toxicity have been reported as effects of acute exposures to very high doses. In
dry cleaners chronically exposed to tetrachloroethylene,
incr levels of markers of early renal damage &/or dysfunction were
attributed to the exposure.
To evaluate the risk of cancer & other
diseases among workers engaged in aircraft manufacturing & potentially
exposed to cmpds containing chromate, trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene
(PCE), & mixed solvents. A retrospective cohort mortality study was
conducted of workers employed for at least 1 year at a large aircraft
manufacturing facility in California on or after 1 January 1960. The mortality
experience of these workers was determined by exam of national, state, &
company records to the end of 1996. Standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) were
evaluated comparing the observed numbers of deaths among workers with those
expected in the general population adjusting for age, sex, race, & calendar
year. The SMRs for 40 cause of death categories were computed for the total
cohort & for subgroups defined by sex, race, position in the factory, work
duration, yr of first employment, latency, and broad occupational groups.
Factory job titles were classified as to likely use of chemicals, & internal
Poisson regression analyses were used to compute mortality risk ratios for
categories of yr of exposure to chromate, TCE, PCE, & mixed solvents, with
unexposed factory workers serving as referents. RESULTS: The study cohort
comprised 77,965 workers who accrued nearly 1.9 million person-years of follow
up (mean 24.2 yr). Mortality follow up, estimated as 99% complete, showed that
20,236 workers had died by 31 December 1996, with cause of death obtained for
98%. Workers experienced low overall mortality (all causes of death SMR 0.83)
& low cancer mortality (SMR 0.90). No significant increases in risk were
found for any of the 40 specific cause of death categories, whereas for several
causes the numbers of deaths were significantly below expectation. Analyses by
occupational group & specific job titles showed no remarkable mortality
patterns. Factory workers estimated to have been routinely exposed to chromate
were not at increased risk of total cancer (SMR 0.93) or of lung cancer (SMR
1.02). Workers routinely exposed to TCE, PCE, or a mixture of solvents also were
not at increased risk of total cancer (SMRs 0.86, 1.07, & 0.89,
respectively), & the numbers of deaths for specific cancer sites were close
to expected values. Slight to moderately increased rates of non-Hodgkin's
lymphoma were found among workers exposed to TCE or PCE, but none was
significant. A significant incr in testicular cancer was found among those with
exposure to mixed solvents, but the excess was based on only six deaths &
could not be linked to any particular solvent or job activity. Internal cohort
analyses showed no significant trends of increased risk for any cancer with
increasing years of exposure to chromate or solvents. The results from this
large scale cohort study of workers followed up for over 3 decades provide no
clear evidence that occupational exposures at the aircraft manufacturing factory
resulted in increases in the risk of death from cancer or other diseases. Our
findings support previous studies of aircraft workers in which cancer risks were
generally at or below expected levels.
Skin, Eye and Respiratory Irritations:
Eye exposure can lead to conjunctivitis; Skin
exposure can lead to inflamation; Inhalation can lead to respiratory tract
irritation.
Tetrachloroethylene
vapor is a mucous membrane & upper resp irritant at levels above 75 to 100
ppm.
Drug Warnings:
VET: AT ONE TIME IT WAS USED FAIRLY
EXTENSIVELY AGAINST GI PARASITES OF RUMINANTS. ITS DISADVANTAGE IN RUMINANTS IS
NECESSITY OF STIMULATING CLOSURE OF ESOPHAGEAL GROOVE SO THAT MEDICATION IS
DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO ABOMASUM RATHER THAN PASSING INTO RUMEN WHICH ... REDUCES
EFFECTIVENESS OF DRUG. ... NO FOOD OR WATER SHOULD BE ALLOWED FOR 12-18 HR
BEFORE & FOR 4 HR AFTER DOSING. ... /IT/ IS CONTRAINDICATED IN
TAPEWORM-INFECTED ANIMALS SINCE IRRITATION OF THESE WORMS MAY RESULT IN THEIR
BALLING UP & OCCLUDING DIGESTIVE PASSAGE. IT IS ... CONTRAINDICATED IN
ANIMALS WITH DISTEMPER ... & SHOULD NOT BE ADMIN TO NURSING ANIMALS OR THOSE
WEIGHING LESS THAN 2 LB (APPROX 1 KG).
VET: RESTRICT DIETARY FAT WITHIN 2 DAYS BEFORE
AND AFTER USE TO AVOID ENHANCED ABSORPTION OF THIS FAT SOL LIVER TOXICANT.
CONTRAINDICATED IN FEBRILE DISEASES OR IN DEBILITATED ANIMALS. STRONG MUCOSAL
IRRITANT. BREAKING CAPSULES IN MOUTH HAS PRODUCED ATAXIA, CONVULSIONS, AND
ANESTHESIA.
Food and Environmental Agents: Effect on
Breast-Feeding: Tetrachloroethylene-cleaning fluid (perchloroethylene):
Obstructive jaundice, dark urine. /from Table 7/
Medical Surveillance:
Periodical exam of the liver and kidneys.
Exhaled air was analyzed for tetrachloroethene
in teachers and 4-5 year old pupils of a kindergarten situated near a factory,
and in residents of an old folks home situated near a former chemical waste
dump. The tetrachloroethene concentrations were higher
in the exhaled air of children living near the factory (mean 24 ug/cu m, n= 6)
than in control children (mean 2.8 ug/cu m, n= 11). In the old folks home, the tetrachloroethene
concentrations in the exhaled air of people living on the first floor were
higher (mean 7.8 ug/cu m, n= 10) than in the exhaled air of the people living on
the second floor and higher (mean 1.8 ug/cu m, n= 19). From the results of this
study, it is clear that in environmental exposure to tetrachloroethene,
biological monitoring of exhaled air is a simple, efficient, effective, and
convenient method of assessing total ambient exposure of both young and aged
subjects.
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ...
in relation specifically to cancer hazards, there are at present no health
monitoring methods that may ensure the early detection of preneoplastic lesions
or lesions which may precede them. Whenever medical surveillance is indicated,
in particular when exposure to a carcinogen has occurred, ad hoc decisions
should be taken concerning additional tests that might become useful or
mandatory. /Chemical Carcinogens/
Populations at Special Risk:
... individuals with diseases of the heart,
liver, kidneys, and lung.
Probable Routes of Human Exposure:
Currently at risk of exposure are more than
500,000 workers, primarily in the dry cleaning & textile industries, which
use more than 2/3 of the domestically produced tetrachloroethylene.
NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has
statistically estimated that 536,688 workers (139,308 of these are female) are
potentially exposed to tetrachloroethylene in the
US(1). Occupational exposure to tetrachloroethylene may
occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces
where tetrachloroethylene is produced or used(SRC). The
mean concn of tetrachloroethylene in alveolar air in 18
workers at 12 dry cleaning stores was 73 mg/cu m(2). The general population may
be exposed to tetrachloroethylene via inhalation of
ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water(SRC).
Body Burden:
Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in 7 of 8 samples in mother's milk from 4 urban areas in the US(1).
One hour after a visit to a dry cleaning plant, one sample of mother's milk
contained 10 ppm tetrachloroethylene. This decreased to
3 ppm after 24 hr(2). Tetrachloroethylene was detected
in expired breath and blood from 9 individuals living in Love Canal, NY at
600-4,500 ng/cu m and 0.35-260 ng/ml, respectively(3). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in human body fat (8 subjects) 0.4-29.2 ppb and various human
organs less than 6 ng/g(4). The mean concn of tetrachloroethylene
in alveolar air in 136 residents living near 12 dry-cleaning stores were: living
equal to or <5 floors above the stores 5 mg/cu m, adjacent houses 1 mg/cu m,
one house away 0.2 mg/cu m, across street <.1 mg/cu m, whereas the mean concn
in 18 workers from these stores was 73 mg/cu m(5).
Whole blood, USA survey of 250 (121 males, 129
females), 0.7-23 ppb, 2.4 ppb avg(1). Breath samples (ug/cu m, weighted
statistics), Elizabeth and Bayonne, NJ, 1981, 295-339 samples, 93% pos, 280 max,
13.0 avg, 6.8 median(2). Alveolar air in children and teachers in school
situated near factory were 24 ug/cu m avg for children and 11 and 47 ug/cu m for
the teachers(3). The mean concentration of tetrachloroethylene
in the classroom was 13 ug/cu m(3). Alveolar air of residents of a nursing home
situated near a former chemical waste dump averaged 7.8 ug/cu m first floor and
1.8 ug/cu m on the second floor, where ambient concentrations averaged 8.2 and
1.6 ug/cu m, respectively(3). USA FY82 National Human Adipose Tissue Survey
specimens, 46 composites, 61% pos (>3 ppb, wet tissue concn), 94 ppb max(4).
Average Daily Intake:
The AVDI of tetrachloroethylene
measured in 8 urban areas of Japan was reported as 21 ug (inhalation) and 0.84
ug (ingestion)(1).
Animal Toxicity Studies:
Evidence for Carcinogenicity:
Evaluation: There is limited evidence in
humans for the carcinogenicity of tetrachloroethylene.
There is sufficient evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of tetrachloroethylene.
Overall evaluation: Tetrachloroethylene is probably
carcinogenic to humans (Group 2A). In making the overall evaluation, the working
group considered the following evidence: (1) Although tetrachloroethylene
is known to induce peroxisome proliferation in mouse liver, a poor quantitative
correlation was seen between peroxisome proliferation and tumor formation in the
liver after administration of tetrachloroethylene by
inhalation. The spectrum of mutations in proto-oncogenes in liver tumors from
mice treated with tetrachloroethylene is different from
that in liver tumors from mice treated with trichloroethylene. (2) The cmpd
induced leukemia in rats. (3) Several epidemiological studies showed elevated
risks for esophageal cancer, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and cervical cancer.
A3. A3= Animal carcinogen.
Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts:
UNCONSCIOUSNESS WAS OBSERVED IN RATS WITHIN
FEW MIN @ CONCN OF 6000 PPM OR MORE & AFTER SERVERAL HOURS AT 3000 PPM, BUT
UNCONSCIOUSNESS WAS NOT OBSERVED AT 2000 PPM. AT THESE HIGH-LEVEL SINGLE
EXPOSURES, THE PREDOMINANT RESPONSE WAS ... DEPRESSION OF NERVOUS SYSTEM. THERE
WERE SLIGHT CHANGES IN LIVER, CHARACTERIZED BY SLIGHT INCR IN WT, SLIGHT INCR IN
TOTAL LIPID, AND SLIGHT CLOUDY SWELLING.
EXCESSIVE ABSORPTION OF DRUG WILL RESULT IN
DIZZINESS AND INCOORDINATION ... AND EVEN DEATH.
IN HOST MEDIATED ASSAY IN MICE, USING
SALMONELLA TYPHIMURIUM TA1950, TA1951 AND TA1952, THERE WAS A SIGNIFICANT INCR
IN NUMBER OF REVERTANTS WITH DOSES EQUIV TO LD50 & HALF THE LD50, BUT THIS
WAS NOT DOSE RELATED. ... THERE WAS NO INDUCTION OF CHROMOSOMAL ABERRATIONS IN
BONE MARROW CELLS OF MICE THAT HAD RECEIVED EITHER SINGLE (HALF LD50) OR 5 DAILY
IP INJECTIONS (1/6 LD50) OF ... /TETRACHLOROETHYLENE/.
... pregnant mice and rats /were exposed/ to
concn of 300 ppm. Both species were exposed for /periods of/ 7 hours daily, on
days 6 through 15 of gestation. No fetal toxicity or teratogenicity was
detected.
... behavioral tests /were performed/ on the
offspring of rats exposed to 100 ppm for 7 hr daily on days 14-20 of gestation
... no changes ... /were observed in/ the control pups. At exposure levels of
900 ppm the maternal animals gained less weight and the offspring performed less
well on neuromotor tests and had lower levels of brain acetylcholine and
dopamine. Pair fed controls were not used.
GROUPS OF 50 MALE & 50 FEMALE B6C3F1 MICE,
APPROX 5 WK OLD ... WERE ADMIN TETRACHLOROETHYLENE IN
CORN OIL BY GAVAGE ON 5 CONSECUTIVE DAYS/WK FOR 78 WK. ... TIME-WEIGHTED AVG
DOSES WERE 536 AND 1072 MG/KG BODY WT/DAY IN MALES & 386 AND 772 MG/KG BODY
WT/DAY IN FEMALES. GROUPS OF 20 MALE AND 20 FEMALE MICE WERE EITHER UNTREATED OR
RECEIVED CORN OIL ALONE. ... THE SHORTER LIFESPAN IN TREATED ANIMALS WAS DUE TO
EARLY TOXICITY & HIGH INCIDENCES OF HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMAS IN ANIMALS OF
BOTH SEXES ...
... ONLY A NEARLY LETHAL /ORAL/ DOSE (4 G/KG
BODY WT) CAUSED SWELLING OF THE CONVOLUTED /KIDNEY/ TUBULES AND HYDROPIC
DEGENERATION IN MALE MICE ... IP DOSES OF 1.6-2.3 G/KG BODY WT ... CAUSED SLIGHT
CALCIFICATION OF THE TUBULES OF THE KIDNEY IN DOGS ...
MALE RATS WERE EXPOSED FOR 4 HR TO VARIOUS
CONCN OF TETRACHLOROETHYLENE. THE ENZYMES SGOT, SGPT,
AND OCT WERE MARKEDLY ELEVATED AS A RESULT OF EXPOSURE.
Rats inhalation: No pathological effects @ 70
ppm, 8 hr/day, 5 days/wk, 7 mo; Some pathological changes in liver and kidneys @
230 ppm, 8 hr/day, 5 days/wk, 7 mo.
/Tetrachloroethylene
was not/ mutagenic ... in 2 strains of Salmonella typhimurium in the presence of
a postmitochondrial mouse liver supernatant, following exposure to vapors ...
The cardiac effects of tetrachloroethylene
... were studied in several species. To standardize the dosimetry, tetrachloroethylene
was prepared for iv injection in soln of Tween 80, which had no demonstratable
cardiotoxicity. In rabbits under urethane anesthesia and in cats and dogs under
pentobarbital anesthesia, tetrachloroethylene increased
the vulnerability of the ventricles to epinephrine induced extrasystoles,
bigeminal rhythms, and tachycardia. The mean threshold doses of tetrachloroethylene
were 10 mg/kg in rabbits, 24 mg/kg in cats, and 13 mg/kg in dogs. In rabbits
this threshold dose for cardiac arrhythmias corresponded to blood levels between
2.2 and 3.6 ug/ml. Animals demonstrating a reflex bradycardia to vasopressor
doses of epinephrine were relatively resistant to the arrhythmogenic action of tetrachloroethylene.
Ventricular arrhythmias occurred in less than 30% of the animals after tetrachloroethylene
alone. In cats higher doses of tetrachloroethylene (40
mg/kg) produced acute pulmonary edema. Tetrachloroethylene
(30-40 mg/kg) decreased left intraventricular dP/dt (max) in dogs, without
significantly increasing left intraventricular end diastolic pressure, although
there was a transient decrease in arterial blood pressure that accompanied the
early phase of myocardial depression.
A study was designed to determine the effects
of tetrachloroethylene on the phyto- and zooplankton
community at initial concentrations of 1.2 and 0.44 mg/l in separated
compartments of an experimental pond. Measurements in the surrounding water were
made simultaneously to detect possible effects of compartmentalization. Residues
as low as 0.1 mg/l could be analyzed 5 days (low dose) and 38 days (high dose)
post-application. In all applied biotopes, a lethal effect on the Daphnia
population was detected. The phytoplankton community showed an increase of
relative abundance and a decrease in species diversity. Studies of the frequency
distribution of 6 selected phytoplankton species. (Spirogyra species,
Microcystis flos-aquae, Stichococcus bacillaris, Nitzschia acicularis,
Chilomonas parameium, Actinophrys species) demonstrated the total elimination of
at least 4 species from the treated compartments. In spite of different dosing,
only weak differences were found in toxic effects between the low and high dosed
compartments. No significant chemically induced effect was observed on the
physicochemical properties of the treated water.
Exptl momentary spraying of rabbits eyes with tetrachloroethylene
from a pressurized fire extinguisher from a distance of 1 foot caused immediate
pain & blepharospasm. The corneal epithelium became granular & optically
irregular, & patches of epithelium were lost, but the eyes recovered
completely within 2 days.
Results of the mutagenicity test using L5178Y
mouse lymphoma cells were positive for tetrachlorethylene.
Oxidative DNA damage is emerging as an
biomarker of effect in studies assessing the health risks of occupational
chemicals. Trichloroethylene (TCE) & perchloroethylene
(PERC) are used in the dry cleaning industry & their metab can produce
reactive oxygen cmpds. The present study examined the potential for TCE &
PERC to induce oxidative DNA damage in rats that was detectable as increased
urinary excretion of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8OHdG). Thiobarbaturic acid
reactive substances (TBARS) & 8-epiprostaglandin F2alpha (8epiPGF) were also
measured as biomarkers of increased oxidative stress. Male Fischer rats were
admin a single i.p. injection of 0, 100, 500, or 1000 mg/kg of PERC or TCE.
Control rats received only vehicle (1:4 v/v of Alkamuls/water). A positive
control group received 100 mg/kg 2-nitropropane (2NP). Rats were sacrificed 24
hr after dosing. In rats receiving 2NP or TCE but not PERC, TBARS & the
8OHdG/dG ratios were significantly elevated in liver. Lymphocyte 8OHdG/dG was
not affected significantly by 2NP, TCE or PERC. In rats receiving 2NP, urinary
excretion of 8OHdG & 8epiPGF2 were significantly increased. In rats
receiving TCE or PERC, significant increases in 8epiPGF2 or 8OHdG were not
evident. Results indicate that a single high dose of TCE, but not PERC, can
induce an increase in oxidative DNA damage in rat liver. However, the usefulness
of 8OHdG as a biomarker of TCE-induced oxidative DNA damage is questionable.
Rats, rabbits, and monkeys withstood 7 hr
exposures to 400 ppm tetrachloroethylene vapor 5
days/week for 6 months without apparent adverse effects on mortality, growth,
body and organ weights, and periodic clinical chemistry determinations. However,
guinea pigs could tolerate repeated 7 hr exposures at concentrations no higher
than 100 ppm.
Rats died within a few minutes of inhaling a
vapor concentration of 30,000 ppm tetrachloroethylene
and in about 30 min at 19,000 ppm. Death was narcotic in nature. A series of
essentially straight lines was obtained when log concentration was plotted
against log time for exposures to tetrachloroethylene
that were just sufficient to cause lethality in rats, just small enough to be
survived by all rats, and just small enough to cause no organic injury. A
concentration of 2000 ppm was tolerated for up to 14 hr, and 3000 ppm was
tolerated for 4 hr with no deaths. Unconsciousness was produced in rats within a
few minutes at concentrations of 6000 ppm or greater and after several hr at
3000 ppm was tolerated for 4 hr with no deaths. Unconsciousness was produced in
rats within a few minutes at concentrations of 6000 ppm or greater and after
several hours at 3000 ppm, but unconsciousness was not observed at 2000 ppm.
National Toxicology Program Studies:
The bioassay of USP grade tetrachloroethylene
for possible carcinogenicity was conducted using Osborne-Mendel rats and B6C3F1
mice. Tetrachloroethylene in corn oil was admin by
gavage at either of two dosages to groups of 50 male and 50 female animals of
each species, 5 days/wk, over a period of 78 wk followed by an observation
period of 32 wk for rats and 12 wk for mice. Initial dosage levels for the
chronic bioassay were selected on the basis of a preliminary subchronic toxicity
test. Subsequent dosage adjustments were made during the course of the chronic
bioassay. The high and low time weighted avg dosages of tetrachloroethylene
in the chronic study were 941 and 471 mg/kg/day for the male rats, 949 and 474
mg/kg/day for the female rats, 1072 and 536 mg/kg/day for the male mice, and 772
and 386 mg/kg/day for the female mice. For each species, 20 animals of each sex
were placed on test as vehicle controls. These animals were gavaged with corn
oil at the same time that dosed animals were gavaged with tetrachloroethylene
mixtures. Twenty animals of each sex were placed on test as untreated controls
for each species. These animals received no gavage treatments. No significant
incr incidence of neoplastic lesions was observed in treated rats. ... In both
male and female mice, admin of tetrachloroethylene was
associated with a significantly incr incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Hepatocellular carcinomas were observed in 2/17 (12%) untreated control males,
2/20 (10%) untreated control females, 0/20 vehicle control females, 19/48 (40%)
low dose females, and 19/48 (40%) high dose females. Hepatocellular carcinomas
metastasized to the kidney in one untreated control male and to the lung in
three low dose males, one low dose female, and one high dose female. ... The
results of the bioassay of tetrachloroethylene in
Osborne-Mendel rats do not allow an evaluation of the carcinogenicity of this
cmpd due to the high rate of early death among the treated animals. However,
under the condition of this study, tetrachloroethylene
was a liver carcinogen in B6C3F1 mice of both sexes. Levels of Evidence of
Carcinogenicity: Male Rats: Inadequate study; Female Rats: Inadequate study;
Male Mice: Positive; Female Mice: Positive.
Toxicology and carcinogenesis studies of tetrachloroethylene
(99.9%) pure were conducted by inhalation exposure of groups of 50 male and 50
female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice 6 hr/day 5 days/wk for 103 wk. The exposure
concn used (0, 200 or 400 ppm for rats and 0, 100 or 200 ppm for mice) were
selected on the basis of results from a 13 wk inhalation study. ... During the 2
yr studies, exposure to tetrachloroethylene did not
consistently affect body wt gains in either rats or mice. ... Both concns of tetrachloroethylene
were associated with incr incidences of mononuclear cell leukemia in male rats
(28/50; 37/50; 37/50). In female rats, tetrachloroethylene
incr the incidence of leukemia (18/50; 30/50; 29/50) and decr the time to
occurrence of the disease. Tetrachloroethylene produced
renal tubular cell karyomegaly in male and female rats, renal tubular cell
hyperplasia in male rats, and renal tubular cell adenomas and adenocarcinomas
(combined) in male rats (1/49; 3/49; 4/50). The incidence of renal tubular cell
tumors was statistically significant; these uncommon tumors have been
consistently found at low incidences in male rats in other 2 yr studies of
chlorinated ethanes and ethylenes. One low dose male rat had a kidney lipoma,
and another had a nephroblastoma. Four high dose male and two high dose female
rats had gliomas of the brain, whereas one control male and one control female
had this tumor. In male and female mice, tetrachloroethylene
caused dose related incr in the incidences of hepatocellular neoplasms. In
males, tetrachloroethylene at 200 ppm incr the
incidence of hepatocellular adenomas (11/49; 8/49; 18/50) and at both concn incr
the incidence of hepatocellular carcinomas (7/49; 25/49; 26/50). In female mice,
tetrachloroethylene at both concn incr the incidences
of hepatocellular carcinoma (1/48; 13/50; 36/50). Tetrachloroethylene
also produced renal cell karomegaly in both sexes of mice, and one low dose male
mouse had a tubular cell adenocarcinoma. In these inhalation studies, there was
no neoplastic changes in the respiratory tracts of either species, but there was
an incr in the incidence of squamous metaplasia in the nasal cavities in dosed
male rats (0/50; 5/50; 5/50). ... Under the conditions of these 2 yr inhalation
bioassays, there was clear evidence of the carcinogenicity of tetrachloroethylene
for male F344/N rats as shown by incr incidence of mononuclear cell leukemia and
uncommon renal tubular cell neoplasms. There was some evidence of
carcinogenicity of tetrachloroethylene for female
F344/N rats as shown by incr incidences of mononuclear cell leukemia. There was
clear evidence of carcinogenicity for B6C3F1 mice as shown by incr incidences of
both hepatocellular adenomas and carcinomas in males and of hepatocellular
carcinomas in females.
Non-Human Toxicity Values:
LD50 Oral Mouse 6000-8571 mg/kg body weight
LD50 Oral Rat 2400-13000 mg/kg bw
LC50 Rat inhalation 4100 ppm/6 hr LC50 Rat
inhalation 5000 ppm/8 hr LC50 Mouse inhalation 5200 ppm/4 hr LC50 Mouse
inhalation 2978 ppm/6 hr
Ecotoxicity Values:
LC50 Poecilia reticulata (guppy) 18 ppm/7 days
/Conditions of bioassay not specified/
LC50 Pimephales promelas (fathead minnow) 18.4
mg/l/96 hr (flow-through bioassay)
LC50 Pimephales promelas (fathead minnow) 21.4
mg/l/96 hr (static bioassay)
LC50 LEPOMIS MACROCHIRUS (BLUEGILL SUNFISH) 46
MG/L/24 HR AT 21-23 DEG C (95% CONFIDENCE LIMIT 11-15 MG/L) /CONDITIONS OF
BIOASSAY NOT SPECIFIED/
LC50 LEPOMIS MACROCHIRUS (BLUEGILL SUNFISH) 13
MG/L/96 HR AT 21-23 DEG C (95% CONFIDENCE LIMIT 11-15 MG/L) /CONDITIONS OF
BIOASSAY NOT SPECIFIED/
LC50 Daphnia magna (water flea) 18 mg/l/48 hr,
static bioassay, at 22 deg C
LC50 Salmo gairdneri (rainbow trout) 5 mg/l/96
hr, static bioassay at 12 deg C
LC50 Limanda limanda (dab) 5 mg/l/96 hr,
flow-through bioassay
LC50 Tanytarsus dissimilis (midge) 30, 840 ug/l/48
hr, static bioassay
LC50 Lepomis macrochirus (bluegill sunfish)
12,900 ug/l/96 hr, static bioassay
TSCA Test Submissions:
The ability of tetrachloroethylene
to induce morphological transformation in the BALB/3T3 mouse cell line (Cell
Transformation assay) was evaluated. Based on preliminary toxicity test
determinations (exposure time=3 days), tetrachloroethylene
was tested at 0, 2, 10, 50 and 250 ug/ml, with cell survival ranging from 100%
to 51% relative to untreated controls. None of the tested concentrations
produced significantly greater transformation frequencies relative to untreated
controls.
The mutagenicity of tetrachloroethylene
was evaluated in Salmonella tester strains TA98, TA100, TA1535 and TA1537 (Ames
Test), both in the presence and absence of added metabolic activation by Aroclor-induced
rat liver S9 fraction. Tetrachloroethylene did not
cause a positive response in any of the tester strains with or without added
metabolic activation. Tetrachloroethylene was evaluated
using a protocol in which the test article was usually tested over a minimum of
6 dose levels, the highest nontoxic dose level being 10 mg/plate unless
solubility, mutagenicity or toxicity dictated a lower upper limit.
The ability of tetrachloroethylene
to induce DNA repair in the hepatocyte primary culture (HPC) system was
evaluated using hepatocytes from male B6C3F1 mice and Osborne-Mendel rats. In
both the mouse and rat HPC/DNA repair assays, tetrachloroethylene
was cytotoxic from 0.01% to 0.1% and was not genotoxic from 0.001% to 0.00001%.
Metabolism/Pharmacokinetics:
Metabolism/Metabolites:
METABOLITES: TRICHLOROACETIC ACID;
TRICHLOROETHANOL; INORG CHLORIDE; TRANS-1,2-DICHLOROETHYLENE IN EXPIRED AIR.
/FROM TABLE/
IN TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
EXPOSURE, URINARY METABOLITE LEVELS OF TRICHLOROETHANOL, TOTAL TRICHLORO
COMPOUNDS, AND TRICHLOROACETIC ACID INCREASED UNTIL THE ATMOSPHERIC CONCN OF THE
SOLVENT REACHED 50 TO 100 PPM; LITTLE INCR IN THESE METABOLITES OCCURRED AT
HIGHER SOLVENT CONCN.
The relationship among dose, metabolism and
hepatotoxicity in mice which resulted from subchronic exposure to the
chlorinated solvents trihloroethylene and perchloroethylene
were examined. Male Swiss-Cox mice received either trichloroethylene (0 to 3200
mg/kg/day) or perchlorothylene (0 to 2000 mg/kg/day) in corn oil by gavage for 6
weeks. Urinary metabolites from individual mice were quantified to estimate the
extent to which each compound was metabolized. Four parameters of hepatotoxicity
were assessed: liver weight, triglycerides, glucose-6-phophatase activity, and
serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) activity. Trichloroethylene
sigificantly affected liver weight and glucose-6-phosphatase activity; perchloroethylene
affected all four parameters. The metabolism of trichloroethylene was linearly
related to dose through 1600 mg/kg, but then became saturated. The metabolism of
perchloroethylene was saturable. The dose-effect curves
of the affected hepatotoxicity parameters of both compounds were nonlinear and
resembled the dose-metabolism graph of the corresponding solvent. Plots of the
hepatotoxicity data of each compound against total urinary metabolites were
linear in all cases, suggesting that the hepatotoxicity of both perchloroethylene
and trichloroethylene in mice is directly related to the extent of their
metabolism. This pattern is consistent with formation of the toxic intermediate
in the primary metabolic pathway of each compound.
Toxicokinetic modeling of the uptake &
elimination of tetrachloroethylene showed that human
metabolic parameters could be predicted by scaling rat metabolic parameters for tetrachloroethylene
as a function of body weight. Trichloroacetic acid & trichloroethanol have
been reported as urinary metabolites of tetrachloroethylene
in both humans & experimental animals.
Absorption, Distribution & Excretion:
... READILY ABSORBED THROUGH THE LUNG AND TO A
MUCH SMALLER DEGREE THROUGH SKIN OR MUCOUS MEMBRANES OR FOLLOWING INGESTION.
METABOLISM ... IS RELATIVELY SLOW WITH ONLY
FEW PERCENT OF DOSE BEING EXCRETED AS METABOLITES, MAJOR ONE BEING
TRICHLOROACETIC ACID ...
(36)CL-TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
FED TO RATS IS EXCRETED LARGELY UNCHANGED IN EXPIRED AIR (98% OF DOSE IN 2
DAYS), AND IS METABOLIZED, TO ONLY SLIGHT EXTENT, INTO TRICHLOROACETIC ACID (2%)
WHICH IS EXCRETED IN URINE.
Concn curves of perchloroethylene
in blood and exhaled air after exposure showed that it was eliminated from the
body at three different rates with corresponding half-life.
Personal monitoring of exposure to tetrachloroethylene
... and analyses of urine for total trichloro-compounds were carried out in two
groups of workers ... one group (20 males and 19 females) in dry-cleaning
workshops and the other (16 males and 6 females) engaged in the removal of glue
from silk cloth. Comparison of the urinary trichloro-compounds levels with tetrachloroethylene
in the environment revealed that, while the metabolite levels increased
essentially linear to tetrachloroethylene concn up to
100 ppm, leveling off was apparent in the metabolite excretion when the exposure
to tetrachloroethylene was more intense (eg more than
100 ppm), indicating that the capacity of humans to metabolize tetrachloroethylene
is rather limited. A tentative calculation ... indicated that, at the end of an
8 hr shift with exposure to tetrachloroethylene at 50
ppm (TWA), 38% of the tetrachloroethylene absorbed
through the lung would be exhaled unchanged and less than 2% would be
metabolized to be excreted into the urine, while the rest would remain in the
body to be eliminated later.
Tetrachloroethylene
was still detectable in the breath of rats 16 hr after a single exposure to
levels of 339-3390 mg/cu m for 1-40 hr.
Male Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to (14)C-tetrachloroethylene
by either gavage (1.0 mg/kg) or inhalation (10 ppm, 10.4 mg/kg) excreted 70% of
the dose unchanged in expired air. Approximately 3% was excreted as carbon
dioxide, and approximately 23% was excreted in the urine and feces as
nonvolatile metabolites.
Once in the bloodstream, tetrachloroethylene
tends to distribute to body fat. In human tissue at autopsy, ratios of fat to
liver concentrations are greater than 6:1
An autopsy after a fatal tetrachloroethylene
exposure revealed an 8 times greater concn in brain compared with blood ...
Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)
is eliminated primarily via the lung. The respiratory half-life for PCE
elimination has been estimated at 65 to 70 hours.
Tetrachloroethylene
reached near steady-state levels in blood of human volunteers with two hours of
continuous exposure.
Absorption of tetrachloroethylene
(PCE) through the skin by immersing the thumbs of volunteers in PCE for 40
minutes and measuring the PCE in the exhaled air. High concentrations of PCE in
exhaled breath (160 to 260 ug/cu m) were measurable five hours after exposure.
Tetrachloroethylene
excretion in breast milk has been associated with obstructive jaundice in
newborn infants.
Nine unrelated groups (659 males) working in
plastic boat, chemical, plastic button, paint, and shoe factories were studied.
Urine samples were collected at the beginning of the workshift and at the end of
the first half of the shift. A close relationship (correlation coefficient
always above 0.85) between the average environmental solvent concentration
(mg/cu m) measured in the breathing zone and the urinary concentration of
unchanged solvent (ug/L) was observed. The authors recommended a biological
equivalent exposure limit of 101 ug/L. biological exposure data for urine
collected over 4 hr during random sampling for at least 1 yr could be used to
evaluate long-term exposure and probability of non-compliance for individual or
groups of workers.
Objective: The present study was initiated to
examine a quantitative relationship between tetrachloroethene
(TETRA) in blood & urine with TETRA in air, & to compare TETRA in blood
or urine with trichloroacetic acid (TCA) in urine as exposure markers. Methods:
In total, 44 workers (exposed to TETRA during automated, continuous
cloth-degreasing operations), & ten non-exposed subjects volunteered to
participate in the study. The exposure to vapor was monitored by diffusive
sampling. The amounts of TETRA & TCA in end-of-shift blood & urine
samples were measured by either head-space gas chromatography (HS-GC) or
automated methylation followed by HS-GC. The correlation was examined by
regression analysis. Results: The maximum time-weighted average (TWA) concn for
TETRA-exposure was 46 ppm. Regression analysis for correlation of TETRA in
blood, TETRA in urine & TCA in urine, with TETRA in air, showed that the
coefficient was largest for the correlation between TETRA in air & TETRA in
blood. The TETRA in blood, in urine & in air correlated mutually, whereas
TCA in urine correlated more closely with TETRA in blood than with TETRA in
urine. ... The biological marker levels at a hypothetical exposure of 25 ppm
TETRA were substantially higher in the present study than were the levels
reported in the literature. ... Conclusions: Blood TETRA is the best marker of
occupational exposure to TETRA, being superior to the traditional marker,
urinary TCA.
In vitro dermal absorption was measured for 3
volatile organic cmpds in dilute aqueous soln through freshly prepared &
previously frozen human skin. The permeability coefficients at 26 deg C for
chloroform (0.14 cm/h) & trichloroethylene (0.12 cm/h) were similar but much
larger than that for tetrachloroethylene (0.018 cm/h).
Storage of the skin at -20 deg C did not significantly affect the penetration of
these chemicals. The dermal absorption of chloroform through freshly prepared
human skin was not changed significantly by pretreatment of the skin with
commonly used consumer products (moisturizer, baby oil, insect repellent,
sunscreen); however, the permeability coefficient was found to incr from 0.071
cm/h at 11 deg C to 0.19 cm/h at 50 deg C. These data suggest that exposure
estimates for chloroform & other contaminants in water should consider the
appropriate exposure scenario to properly assess the dermal dose.
During hyperventilation therapy, the relative
contribution to the fast elimination process increased from 70% for
physiological minute volume to 99.9%. A minor fraction of the ingested dose was
excreted with the urine (integral of 1% during the first 3 days). In contrast to
previous results, trace amounts of unchanged tetrachloroethylene
were detected in the urine besides trichloroacetic acid and trichloroethanol.
Biological Half-Life:
The elimination of tetrachloroethylene
in expired air ranged from 50 to 150 ppm (339 to 1,017 mg/cu m) for up to 8 hr.
Biological half-life for fat stores was 71.5 hr.
The biological half-life of tetrachloroethylene
metabolites (as measured as total trichloro-compounds) is 144 hours.
Elimination is slow (biological half-life of
65 hours for exhaled perchloroethylene) because of
continuing release of perchloroethylene from fat
stores.
Mechanism of Action:
... /TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
HAS BEEN/ SHOWN ... TO RELEASE LYSOSOMAL ENZYMES FROM GRANULAR FRACTIONS
PREPARED FROM NEMATODES. SINCE GUT OF NEMATODES SEEMS TO BE SPECIALIZED FOR
LYSOSOMAL INTRACELLULAR DIGESTION OF NUTRIENTS, INTERFERENCE WITH THIS PROCESS
MAY WELL EXPLAIN ACTION OF TETRACHLOROETHYLENE ... IT
HAS BEEN ASSUMED THAT AFFECTED WORMS ARE PARALYZED SUFFICIENTLY TO RELEASE THEIR
ATTACHMENT TO INTESTINAL WALL ...
Interactions:
/When formerly used/ ... alcohol must be
avoided before and for 24 hours after use of tetrachloroethylene.
... No laxative should be given, since this increases the toxic effects and
decreases the effectiveness of the drug.
Intubation of rats with mixtures of benzene
and tetrachloroethylene yielded a combined toxicity
which was only slightly less than additive. Mixtures of toluene with tetrachloroethylene
resulted in LD50 values of less than than predicted for simple additivity,
indicating synergistic effects.
Pharmacology:
Therapeutic Uses:
MEDICATION (VET): After the advent of
phenothiazine ... little use has been made of the chlorinated hydrocarbons ...
/as a ruminant anthelmintic/. Tetrachloroethylene has
continued to be used in small animals over the years but has been largely
replaced by drugs that are less toxic & easier to admin.
... /IT/ IS USEFUL ONLY AGAINST HOOKWORM
INFESTATIONS IN MAN. TREATMENT WITH THIS AGENT IS MORE EFFECTIVE AGAINST NECATOR
AMERICANUS THAN AGAINST ANCYLOSTOMA DUODENALE ... /FORMER USE/
... SINGLE DOSE /ORAL/ OF 0.12 ML/KG ... MAX
OF 5 ML. ... DIET BEFORE ADMIN ... SHOULD BE LOW IN FAT & PT SHOULD EAT ONLY
LIGHT MEAL PREVIOUS EVENING. NEXT MORNING ... /DRUG/ INGESTED ON EMPTY STOMACH
... SINGLE TREATMENT ... GENERALLY REMOVE ... WORMS, BUT TWO OR MORE TREATMENTS
@ 4-DAY INTERVALS ... TO CLEAR INFESTATION. /FORMER USE/
TETRACHLOROETHYLENE,
USP ... AVAILABLE IN SOFT GELATIN CAPSULES CONTAINING 0.2, 1.0, OR 2.5 ML OF
DRUG. IT MAY BE DIFFICULT TO OBTAIN DRUG IN CAPSULE FORM FOR HUMAN USE. /FORMER
USE/
Drug Warnings:
VET: AT ONE TIME IT WAS USED FAIRLY
EXTENSIVELY AGAINST GI PARASITES OF RUMINANTS. ITS DISADVANTAGE IN RUMINANTS IS
NECESSITY OF STIMULATING CLOSURE OF ESOPHAGEAL GROOVE SO THAT MEDICATION IS
DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO ABOMASUM RATHER THAN PASSING INTO RUMEN WHICH ... REDUCES
EFFECTIVENESS OF DRUG. ... NO FOOD OR WATER SHOULD BE ALLOWED FOR 12-18 HR
BEFORE & FOR 4 HR AFTER DOSING. ... /IT/ IS CONTRAINDICATED IN
TAPEWORM-INFECTED ANIMALS SINCE IRRITATION OF THESE WORMS MAY RESULT IN THEIR
BALLING UP & OCCLUDING DIGESTIVE PASSAGE. IT IS ... CONTRAINDICATED IN
ANIMALS WITH DISTEMPER ... & SHOULD NOT BE ADMIN TO NURSING ANIMALS OR THOSE
WEIGHING LESS THAN 2 LB (APPROX 1 KG).
VET: RESTRICT DIETARY FAT WITHIN 2 DAYS BEFORE
AND AFTER USE TO AVOID ENHANCED ABSORPTION OF THIS FAT SOL LIVER TOXICANT.
CONTRAINDICATED IN FEBRILE DISEASES OR IN DEBILITATED ANIMALS. STRONG MUCOSAL
IRRITANT. BREAKING CAPSULES IN MOUTH HAS PRODUCED ATAXIA, CONVULSIONS, AND
ANESTHESIA.
Food and Environmental Agents: Effect on
Breast-Feeding: Tetrachloroethylene-cleaning fluid (perchloroethylene):
Obstructive jaundice, dark urine. /from Table 7/
Interactions:
/When formerly used/ ... alcohol must be
avoided before and for 24 hours after use of tetrachloroethylene.
... No laxative should be given, since this increases the toxic effects and
decreases the effectiveness of the drug.
Intubation of rats with mixtures of benzene
and tetrachloroethylene yielded a combined toxicity
which was only slightly less than additive. Mixtures of toluene with tetrachloroethylene
resulted in LD50 values of less than than predicted for simple additivity,
indicating synergistic effects.
Environmental Fate & Exposure:
Environmental Fate/Exposure Summary:
Tetrachloroethylene's
production and use as a dry cleaning agent, degreasing agent and as a chemical
intermediate in the production of fluorocarbons will result in its release to
the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor
pressure of 18.5 mm Hg at 25 deg C indicates tetrachloroethylene
will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase tetrachloroethylene
will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced
hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 96
days. Direct photolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate
process since this compound only absorbs light weakly in the environmental UV
spectrum. If released to soil, tetrachloroethylene is
expected to have moderate mobility based upon Koc values in the range of 200-237
and tetrachloroethylene has often been detected in
groundwater. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an
important fate process based upon a Henry's Law constant of 0.0177 atm-cu
m/mole. Tetrachloroethylene may volatilize from dry
soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Volatilization half-lives in the
range of 1.2-5.4 hrs were measured for tetrachloroethylene
from a sandy loam soil surface and volatilization half-lives of 1.9-5.2 hrs were
measured from an organic topsoil. Biodegradation is expected to occur slowly in
soils under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. If released into water, tetrachloroethylene
is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in water based upon
the Koc data. The biodegradation half-lives of tetrachloroethylene
in aerobic and anaerobic waters were reported as 180 and 98 days, respectively.
Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process
based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization
half-lives for a model river and model lake are 1 hour and 5 days, respectively.
Measured BCF values of 26-77 in fish suggest bioconcentration in aquatic
organisms is low to moderate. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important
environmental fate process based on a hydrolysis half-life of 9 months. Tetrachloroethylene
may undergo indirect photolysis in natural waters when photosensitizers such as
humic material are present. Occupational exposure to tetrachloroethylene
may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces
where tetrachloroethylene is produced or used. The
general population may be exposed to tetrachloroethylene
via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water. (SRC)
Probable Routes of Human Exposure:
Currently at risk of exposure are more than
500,000 workers, primarily in the dry cleaning & textile industries, which
use more than 2/3 of the domestically produced tetrachloroethylene.
NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has
statistically estimated that 536,688 workers (139,308 of these are female) are
potentially exposed to tetrachloroethylene in the
US(1). Occupational exposure to tetrachloroethylene may
occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces
where tetrachloroethylene is produced or used(SRC). The
mean concn of tetrachloroethylene in alveolar air in 18
workers at 12 dry cleaning stores was 73 mg/cu m(2). The general population may
be exposed to tetrachloroethylene via inhalation of
ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water(SRC).
Body Burden:
Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in 7 of 8 samples in mother's milk from 4 urban areas in the US(1).
One hour after a visit to a dry cleaning plant, one sample of mother's milk
contained 10 ppm tetrachloroethylene. This decreased to
3 ppm after 24 hr(2). Tetrachloroethylene was detected
in expired breath and blood from 9 individuals living in Love Canal, NY at
600-4,500 ng/cu m and 0.35-260 ng/ml, respectively(3). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in human body fat (8 subjects) 0.4-29.2 ppb and various human
organs less than 6 ng/g(4). The mean concn of tetrachloroethylene
in alveolar air in 136 residents living near 12 dry-cleaning stores were: living
equal to or <5 floors above the stores 5 mg/cu m, adjacent houses 1 mg/cu m,
one house away 0.2 mg/cu m, across street <.1 mg/cu m, whereas the mean concn
in 18 workers from these stores was 73 mg/cu m(5).
Whole blood, USA survey of 250 (121 males, 129
females), 0.7-23 ppb, 2.4 ppb avg(1). Breath samples (ug/cu m, weighted
statistics), Elizabeth and Bayonne, NJ, 1981, 295-339 samples, 93% pos, 280 max,
13.0 avg, 6.8 median(2). Alveolar air in children and teachers in school
situated near factory were 24 ug/cu m avg for children and 11 and 47 ug/cu m for
the teachers(3). The mean concentration of tetrachloroethylene
in the classroom was 13 ug/cu m(3). Alveolar air of residents of a nursing home
situated near a former chemical waste dump averaged 7.8 ug/cu m first floor and
1.8 ug/cu m on the second floor, where ambient concentrations averaged 8.2 and
1.6 ug/cu m, respectively(3). USA FY82 National Human Adipose Tissue Survey
specimens, 46 composites, 61% pos (>3 ppb, wet tissue concn), 94 ppb max(4).
Average Daily Intake:
The AVDI of tetrachloroethylene
measured in 8 urban areas of Japan was reported as 21 ug (inhalation) and 0.84
ug (ingestion)(1).
Artificial Pollution Sources:
Water pollution by tetrachloroethylene
leaching from vinyl liners in asbestos-cement water pipelines for water
distribution.
During chlorination water treatment, it can be
formed in small quantities.
Tetrachloroethylene's
production and use as a dry cleaning agent, degreasing agent and as a chemical
intermediate in the production of fluorocarbons(1) may result in its release to
the environment through various waste streams(SRC). Tetrachloroethylene
is released through vaporization losses from dry cleaning and industrial metal
cleaning(2), and in wastewater, particularly from metal finishing, laundries,
aluminum forming, organic chemical/plastics manufacturing and municipal
treatment plants(3).
Environmental Fate:
TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification
scheme(1), Koc values in the range of 200-237(2-4), indicates that tetrachloroethylene
is expected to have moderate mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of tetrachloroethylene
from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given
a Henry's Law constant of 0.0177 atm-cu m/mole(5). Tetrachloroethylene
may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based on a vapor pressure of 18.5 mm Hg at
25 deg C(6). Volatilization half-lives in the range of 1.2-5.4 hrs were measured
for tetrachloroethylene from a sandy loam soil surface
and volatilization half-lives of 1.9-5.2 hrs were measured from an organic
topsoil(7). Tetrachloroethylene, reached 11% of its
theoretical BOD in 4 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum in the Japanese
MITI test(8), suggesting biodegradation will be slow under aerobic
conditions(SRC). Biodegradation under anaerobic conditions occurs slowly with
acclimated microorganisms(9,10).
AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification
scheme(1), Koc values in the range of 200-237(2-4) indicate that tetrachloroethylene
is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in water(SRC).
Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(5) based upon a Henry's Law
constant of 0.0177 atm-cu m/mole(6). Using this Henry's Law constant and an
estimation method(5), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake
are 1 hour and 5 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification
scheme(7), BCF values in the range of 26-77 measured in fish(8-10), suggests
bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low to moderate(SRC). The
biodegradation half-lives of tetrachloroethylene in
aerobic and anaerobic waters were reported as 180 and 98 days, respectively(11).
Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process for tetrachloroethylene
based on a hydrolysis half-life of 9 months in purified, de-ionized water(12). Tetrachloroethylene
may undergo indirect photolysis in natural waters when photosensitizers such as
humic acids are present(13). This process is only expected to be important in
sunlit surface waters containing humic material.
ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of
gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the
atmosphere(1), tetrachloroethylene, which has a vapor
pressure of 18.5 mm Hg at 25 deg C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in
the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase tetrachloroethylene
is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl
radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 96
days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.67X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at
25 deg C(3). Tetrachloroethylene may also be degraded
in the atmosphere by reaction with ozone, but the rate of this reaction is too
slow to be environmentally important(4). Direct photolysis is not expected to be
an important environmental fate process since this compound only absorbs light
weakly in the environmental UV spectrum(5).
Environmental Biodegradation:
No degradation occurred in 21 days in 3
biodegradability tests with acclimated or unacclimated inocula or in a river
die-away test(4). Microbial degradation did not contribute to the removal of tetrachloroethylene
(PCE) in a mesocosm experiment which simulated Narraganset Bay, RI(5). Under
aerobic conditions there was no degradation in 25 weeks in a batch experiment
with a sewage inoculum(1) or when low concentrations of PCE (16 ug/l) were
circulated through an acclimated aerobic biofilm column over a period of 1
year(2). While only 3.75% of the PCE treated by conventional, extended and
2-stage activated-sludge pilot plants appeared in the effluent, most of the PCE
was discharged to the air from the extended aeration(3).
ANAEROBIC: There is evidence that slow
biodegradation of tetrachloroethylene (PCE) occurs
under anaerobic conditions when the microorganisms have been acclimated,
yielding trichloroethylene (TCE) as a product(1,2). An experiment in a
continuous-flow laboratory methanogenic column using well acclimated mixed
culture and a 2-day detention time had an average PCE removal rate of 76%(3). In
a continuous-flow mixed-film methanogenic column with a liquid detention time of
4 days, mineralization of 24% of the PCE present occurred; TCE was the major
intermediate formed (72%), but traces of dichloroethylene isomers and vinyl
chloride were also found(4). In other column studies under a different set of
methanogenic conditions, nearly quantitative conversion of PCE to VC was found
in 10 days(4). Removal of 86% PCE occurred in a methanogenic biofilm column (8
weeks of activation followed by 9-12 weeks of acclimation(5)).
A large reduction of tetrachloroethylene
which had been recirculated through a soil column for 14 days was attributed to
adsorption and volatilization(2). In a microcosm containing muck from an aquifer
recharge basin, 72.8% loss was observed in 21 days against 12-17% in controls,
and the metabolites trichloroethylene, cis- and trans-1,2-dichloroethylene,
dichloromethane, and chloroethene were identified(3). However, when subsurface
samples were aseptically removed from above and below the water table and
incubated in the laboratory, no degradation occurred in 16 weeks(4). In one
field groundwater recharge project, degradation was observed in the 50 day
recharge period(1).
Tetrachloroethylene,
present at 30 mg/l, reached 11% of its theoretical BOD in 4 weeks using an
activated sludge inoculum at 100 mg/l and the Japanese MITI test(1), suggesting
biodegradation will be slow under aerobic conditions(SRC). The biodegradation
half-life of tetrachloroethylene in aerobic and
anaerobic waters was reported as 180 and 98 days, respectively(2). The
first-order anaerobic biodegradation rate constant of tetrachloroethylene
was reported in the range of 0.00042-0.0071 day-1(3), corresponding to
half-lives of 98-1,650 days(SRC). Tetrachloroethylene
was degraded to trichloroethene, 1,2-dichloroethene and ultimately vinyl
chloride during a 6 day incubation period using a groundwater and sediment
microcosm obtained from a contaminated site in Toronto, Canada(4).
Environmental Abiotic Degradation:
The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction
of tetrachloroethylene with photochemically-produced
hydroxyl radicals is 1.67X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 deg C(1). This
corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 96 days at an atmospheric concn
of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). Tetrachloroethylene
may also be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with ozone, but the rate of
this reaction is too slow to be environmentally important(2). Direct photolysis
is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this
compound only absorbs light weakly in the environmental UV spectrum(3). Tetrachloroethylene
may undergo indirect photolysis in natural waters when photosensitizers such as
humic material are present(4). When tetrachloroethylene
in aqueous solution was irradiated with light greater than 290 nm in wavelength,
75% degradation was observed over the course of one year, while 59-65%
degradation was observed for dark controls(5). Hydrolysis is not expected to be
an important environmental fate process for tetrachloroethylene
based on a hydrolysis half-life of 9 months in purified, de-ionized water(5).
Photodegradation in the stratosphere is
rapid(1). When PCE adsorbed to silica gel is irradiated through a pyrex filter,
50-90% is lost in 6 days(2).
Environmental Bioconcentration:
The BCF value of tetrachloroethylene
in fathead minnows was 39(1) and the BCF value for bluegill sunfish was 49(2).
BCF values of 26-77 were observed for carp exposed to 0.1 mg/l of tetrachloroethylene
and values of 28-76 were observed for carp exposed to 0.01 mg/l over an 8 week
incubation period(3). According to a classification scheme(4), these BCF data
suggest that bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low to moderate(SRC).
Soil Adsorption/Mobility:
The Koc value of tetrachloroethylene
in a silt loam was measured as 210(1) and the Koc in a Lincoln fine sandy soil
was 200(2). An average Koc of 237 was calculated for tetrachloroethylene
in 6 soils (acid peat, acid humic, calcareous humic, iron-oxide rich subsurface
soil, clay subsurface soil, and sandy subsurface soil)(3). According to a
classification scheme(4) these Koc data suggest that tetrachloroethylene
is expected to have moderate mobility in soil(SRC).
Volatilization from Water/Soil:
The Henry's Law constant for tetrachloroethylene
is 0.0177 atm-cu m/mole(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that tetrachloroethylene
expected to volatilize rapidly from water surfaces(2). Based on this Henry's Law
constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1
m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 1 hour(SRC). The
volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind
velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 5 days(SRC). The volatilization
half-life of tetrachloroethylene was reported as 3.2
minutes in laboratory experiments using distilled water(3). Tetrachloroethylene's
Henry's Law constant(1) indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces
may occur(SRC). Tetrachloroethylene is expected to
volatilize from dry soil surfaces based on a vapor pressure of 18.5 mm Hg at 25
deg C(4). Volatilization half-lives in the range of 1.2-5.4 hrs were measured
for tetrachloroethylene from a sandy loam soil surface
and volatilization half-lives of 1.9-5.2 hrs were measured from an organic
topsoil(5).
Environmental Water Concentrations:
Samples for analysis of volatile organic
compounds were collected from 315 wells in the Potomac-Raritan-Magothy aquifer
system in southwestern New Jersey and a small adjacent area in Pennsylvania
(USA) during 1980-1982. Volatile organic compounds were detected in all 3
aquifer units of the Potomac-Raritan-Magothy aquifer system. Most of the
contamination appeared to be confined to the outcrop area. Low levels of
contamination were found away from the outcrop area in the upper and middle
aquifer. Trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene and
benzene were the most frequently detected compounds. Differences in the
distributions of light chlorinated hydrocarbons, /(including tetrachloroethylene)/,
trichloroethylene, and aromatic hydrocarbons, ie, benzene, were noted and were
probably due to differences in the uses of the compounds and the distribution
patterns of potential contamination sources. The distribution patterns of
volatile organic compounds differed greatly among the 3 aquifer units. The upper
aquifer, which cropped out mostly in less-developed areas, had the lowest
percentage of wells with volatile organic compounds detected (10% of wells
sampled). The concentrations in most wells in the upper aquifer which had
detectable levels were <10 ug/l. In the middle aquifer, which cropped out
beneath much of the urban and industrial area adjacent to the Delaware River,
detectable levels of volatile organic compounds were found in 22% of wells
sampled, and several wells contained concentrations >100 ug/l. The lower
aquifer, which was confined beneath much of the outcrop area of the aquifer
system, had the highest percentage of wells (28%) with detectable levels. This
was probably due to vertical leakage of contamination from the middle aquifer
and the high percentage of wells tapping the lower aquifer in the most heavily
developed areas of the outcrop.
The National Health Department (Italy) had
promoted and supported a preliminary survey on the presence of some chlorinated
organic compounds in the drinking water. The drinking water of some cities of
northern Italy was analyzed for the presence of trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene,
methylchloroform, carbon tetrachloride, trihalomethanes, polychlorinated
biphenyls, and the most common chlorinated pesticides. From March, 1981 to June,
1982, 8 controls were done for 11 sampling points. All water underwent different
treatments with carbon. In the raw water, trichloroethylene (47/48) and tetrachloroethylene
(34/48) showed the highest frequency of positivity. One well had the highest
concentrations of these compounds (trichloroethylene 81-158 ug/l; tetrachloroethylene
15-32 ug/l). In the finished waters, carbon trichloride the most abundant
trihalomethane formed during chlorination, was detected in 80% of the 39
samples, against 31% in the 48 raw water samples. No polychlorinated biphenyls
and chlorinated pesticides were found at the chosen detection limit (0.05 ug/l).
DRINKING WATER: In a survey of 180 US cities
with finished surface water, the median concn of tetrachloroethylene
in drinking water was reported as 0.3 ppb with a max concn of 21 ppb(1). In
survey of 36 US cities with finished groundwater, the median concn of tetrachloroethylene
was 3 ppb(1). Tetrachloroethylene was detected at a max
conc of 1.5 ppm in contaminated drinking wells in the US(2,3). The avg concn of tetrachloroethylene
from 30 Canadian potable water facilities was reported as 1 ppb(4). A survey of
drinking water sources in the Netherlands showed that 64 sources had tetrachloroethylene
concns greater than 10 ppb, 12 sources had concns greater than 100 ppb, 4
sources had concns greater than 1 ppm and 2 sources had concns greater than 100
ppm(5). Drinking water obtained from the Rhine River, Netherlands had a max
concn of 50 parts per trillion tetrachloroethylene(6).
Drinking water in Niagra Falls, NY had tetrachloroethylene
concns of 0.35-2.9 ppb(7). A survey of drinking water for individual states in
the US reported that 220 of 1,569 samples contained tetrachloroethylene
at concns of trace to 3,000 ppb(8). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in 264 drinking water wells in California at a max concn of 166 ug/l(9).
GROUNDWATER: The median concn of tetrachloroethylene
in groundwater from 27 US cities was 0.6 ppb(1). The max concn of tetrachloroethylene
in groundwater wells from San Fernando Valley, CA was 130 ppb(2). Groundwater
from Britain contained less than 2 ppb of tetrachloroethylene
in 8 out of 10 samples analyzed(3). Groundwater underlying 2 rapid infiltration
sites in the US contained tetrachloroethylene at concns
of 0.07 and 0.63 ppb(4). Shallow groundwater wells in Japan contained tetrachloroethylene
at concns of 0.2-23,000 ppb and deep wells contained 0.2-150 ppb(5). Tetrachloroethylene
was identified, not quantified in 27% of groundwater samples obtained from
shallow wells in southern New Jersey(6).
SURFACE WATER: The median concn of tetrachloroethylene
in surface water from 154 US cities was 2 ppb(1). Tetrachloroethylene
was identified, not quantified, in 2,346 out of 4,972 samples of water from the
Ohio River(2). The avg concn of tetrachloroethylene in
Lake Ontario water was reported as 0.009 ppb(3). The concn of tetrachloroethylene
in the Rhine River, Netherlands was reported as 0.12-0.62 ppb from 1976-1982(4).
The concn of tetrachloroethylene in Lake Zurich,
Switzerland was reported as 0.025-0.14 ppb(5,6). The STORET Database of US
surface water reported that tetrachloroethylene was
identified in 3,543 out of 9,323 surface water samples(7). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in the Elbe River near Hamburg Germany at concns of 16-163 ng/l
from 1992-1993(8).
SEAWATER: Tetrachloroethylene
has been detected in seawater at concns of 0.1 to 0.8 parts per trillion(1,2). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in the Gulf of Mexico at concns of 0-40 parts per trillion(3).
Surface water from the Eastern Pacific Ocean contained tetrachloroethylene
at concns of 0.1-2.8 parts per trillion(4).
RAIN/SNOW: Tetrachloroetheylene was detected
in rain from an industrial city in England at 150 parts per trillion(1). West
Los Angeles (3/26/82) tetrachloroethylene was detected
in rain at a concn of 21 parts per trillion(2). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in rain from La Jolla, California at 5.7 parts per trillion(3) and
central and southern California at 1.4 and 2.3 parts per trillion,
respectively(3).
Effluent Concentrations:
Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in industrial effluent at concns of 1-20 ppb and in the effluent of
municipal treatment plants at concns of 1-10 ppb(1). Tetrachloroethylene
was released from the Baltimore Municipal Treatment Plant at concns of 8-129
ppb(2). Maximum concns of tetrachloroethylene were
reported in wastewater from the following industries: auto and laundry
facilities, 93 ppm; aluminum forming facilities, 4 ppm; metal finishing plants;
110 ppm; organic chemical/plastic manufacturing plants, 5.1 ppm (mean value);
paint and ink plants, 4.9 ppm(3). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in landfill gas from 7 waste sites in the United Kingdom at concns
of 0.1-255 ng/cu m(4). Tetrachloroethylene was detected
in the effluent of a municipal waste incinerator in Germany at 0.16 ug/cu m(5). Tetrachloroethylene
was identified, not quantified, in water samples at 279 hazardous waste sites in
the US(6).
Sediment/Soil Concentrations:
SOIL: Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in soil samples from rural areas of the Netherlands at concns of
0.2-1.0 ug/kg(1). Tetrachloroethylene was identified,
not quantified, in soil samples from a photocopier refurbishing plant in NY(2). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in soil from an industrial waste disposal site in Denmark at a
concn of 19 mg/kg(3).
SEDIMENT: Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in sediment from 172 stations in Liverpool Bay, England at an avg
concn of 4.8 parts per trillion(1). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in 25 of 359 sediment samples from the US at a median concn of less
than 0.050 ppb(2). Tetrachloroethylene was detected in
sediment from Ijmeer, Netherlands at concns of 0.02 and 0.07 mg/kg(3).
Atmospheric Concentrations:
URBAN/SUBURBAN: The concentration of tetrachloroethylene
at various US cities ranged from less than 0.2 to 9.75 ppb(1). Tetrachloroethylene
mean concentrations from seven U.S. cities (1980-1981) ranged from 0.290-0.590
ppb with a max concn of 7.60 ppb(2).
INDOOR: The median concn of tetrachloroethylene
inside 9 homes near Old Love Canal, Niagara, NY was reported as 71 parts per
trillion(1). Tetrachloroethylene was detected in a
classroom near a dry cleaning facility in the Netherlands at 1.9 ppb,(2) and a
nursing home situated near a former chemical waste dump at 1.2 and 0.2 ppb on
first and second floors, respectively(3).
RURAL/REMOTE: Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in White Face Mountains, NY at concns of less than 0.02 to 0.19 ppb
from September 16-19 1974(1). Tetrachloroethylene was
detected in Barrows, Alaska at concns of 56-128 parts per trillion(2). The
average concn of tetrachloroethylene in the northern
hemisphere was reported as 40 parts per trillion(3).
SOURCE DOMINATED: Typical concns of tetrachloroethylene
in source dominated and industrial areas have been reported in the range of
0.3-1.5 ppb, with max concns of 10 ppb(1-5). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in Old Love Canal, Niagara, NY at a median concn of 109 parts per
trillion(6). Tetrachloroethylene was detected around a
playground near a dry cleaning facility in the Netherlands at 0.15 ppb(7). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in industrialized regions of Tsubame, Japan (0.019-0.23 ppb),
Tokamachi, Japan (0.20-2.8 ppb) and Kubiki, Japan (0.024-0.63 ppb)(8).
Food Survey Values:
Tetrachloroethylene
concentrations in foods ranged from non-detectable amounts (<0.01 ug/kg) in
orange juice to 13 ug/kg in English butter.
Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in Chinese style sauce (2 ppb), quince jelly (2.2 ppb), crab apple
jelly (2.5 ppb), grape jelly (1.6 ppb) and chocolate sauce (3.6 ppb)(1). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in various food from England at concns of 0.01-0.13 ppb(2). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in 2 of 10 wheat samples at 1.8 and 2.1 ppb and 2 corn samples at
0.45 and 0.54 ppb(3). Tetrachloroethylene was detected
in butter and margarine at concns of 0.7-18 ug/kg and peanut butter at concns of
0.6-9.7 ug/kg(4).
Plant Concentrations:
Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in marine algae at concns of 13-23 ppb(1).
Fish/Seafood Concentrations:
Tetrachloroethylene
was detected at concns of 0.3-43 ppb in marine fish, 0.5-176 ppb in marine
invertebrates in England(1), 250 ppb in American eel (Delaware River), 1,050 ppb
in American eel (Newark Bay), 77 ppb in carp (Delaware River), 108 ppb in
striped bass (Raritan River), 88 ppb in spot fish (Houston Ship Channel)(2). Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in fish from the Rhine River and Lake Constance Germany at concns
of 25-100 ppb(3). Tetrachloroethylene was detected in
clams from the Ariho River, Japan at 0.6 ug/kg(4).
Animal Concentrations:
Tetrachloroethylene
was detected at concns of 0.6-19 ppb in grey seal blubber (NE Coast of England)
and at concns of 1.4-39 ppb in marine and freshwater birds (coast of
England)(1).
Milk Concentrations:
Tetrachloroethylene
was detected in 7 of 8 samples in mother's milk from 4 urban areas in the US(1).
One hour after a visit to a dry cleaning plant, one sample of mother's milk
contained 10 ppm tetrachloroethylene. This decreased to
3 ppm after 24 hr(2).
Environmental Standards & Regulations:
Acceptable Daily Intakes:
Suggested No-Adverse-Response Level (SNARL):
In light of the lack of definitive information regarding the quantitiy of tetrachloroethylene
that must be ingested to depress psychophysiological function, it seems
appropriate that calculations for a SNARL be based upon quantities of the
chemical that are required to produce tissue injury. ... the 0.3 ml/kg (0.49
g/kg) dose appears to be a reasonable "minimum toxic dose" from which
to calculate a 24-hr SNARL for contamination of drinking water, assuming that
the sole source of tetrachloroethylene during this
period will be from 2 l/day of drinking water consumed by a 70 kg human. A
safety factor of 100 is applied: 490 mg/kg times 70 kg/100 times 2 l= 172 mg/l.
The above considerations ignore the possibility that tetrachloroethylene
may be carcinogenic. ... a 7-day standard for drinking water contamination,
which was obtained by dividing the 24-hr standard by 7 (172 mg/l/7 days= 24.5
mg/l), should protect against adverse effects by the chemical.
TSCA Requirements:
Pursuant to section 8(d) of TSCA, EPA
promulgated a model Health and Safety Data Reporting Rule. The section 8(d)
model rule requires manufacturers, importers, and processors of listed chemical
substances and mixtures to submit to EPA copies and lists of unpublished health
and safety studies. Tetrachloroethylene is included on
this list.
RCRA Requirements:
D039; A solid waste containing tetrachloroethylene
may or may not become characterized as a hazardous waste when subjected to the
Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure listed in 40 CFR 261.24, and if so
characterized, must be managed as a hazardous waste.
F002; When tetrachloroethylene
is a spent halogenated solvent, it is classified as a hazardous waste from a
nonspecific source (F002), as stated in 40 CFR 261.31, and must be managed
according to state and/or federal hazardous waste regulations.
Atmospheric Standards:
Listed as a hazardous air pollutant (HAP)
generally known or suspected to cause serious health problems. The Clean Air
Act, as amended in 1990, directs EPA to set standards requiring major sources to
sharply reduce routine emissions of toxic pollutants. EPA is required to
establish and phase in specific performance based standards for all air emission
sources that emit one or more of the listed pollutants. Tetrachloroethylene
is included on this list.
Clean Water Act Requirements:
Toxic pollutant designated pursuant to section
307(a)(1) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and is subject to effluent
limitations.
Federal Drinking Water Standards:
EPA 5 ug/l
State Drinking Water Standards:
(FL) FLORIDA 3 ug/l
(NJ) NEW JERSEY 1 ug/l
State Drinking Water Guidelines:
(AZ) ARIZONA 0.67 ug/l
(CT) CONNECTICUT 5 ug/l
(ME) MAINE 3 ug/l
(MN) MINNESOTA 7 ug/l
(WA) WASHINGTON 4 ug/l
Chemical/Physical Properties:
Molecular Formula:
C2-Cl4
Molecular Weight:
165.83
Color/Form:
Colorless liquid.
Odor:
Ether-like odor
Mildly sweet, chloroform-like odor
Chlorinated solvent odor
Boiling Point:
121.3 deg C
Melting Point:
-22.3 deg C
Corrosivity:
Corrosion of aluminum, iron, and zinc, which
is negligible unless water is present, can be inhibited by the addition of
stabilizers
Critical Temperature & Pressure:
347.1 deg C; 9.74 MPa (to convert MPa to atm,
divide by 0.101)
Density/Specific Gravity:
1.6227 @ 20 deg C/4 deg C
Heat of Combustion:
679.9 kJ/mol (constant pressure with formation
of aq hydrochloric acid; 831.8 kJ/mol (constant volume at 18.7 deg C) (to
convert J to cal, divide by 4.184)
Heat of Vaporization:
90.2 BTU/lb= 50.1 cal/g= 2.10X10+5 J/kg
Octanol/Water Partition Coefficient:
log Kow= 3.40
Solubilities:
Miscible with alcohol, ether, chloroform,
benzene
Miscible with solvent hexane; dissolves in
most of the fixed and volatile oils
0.015 G/100 ML WATER AT 25 DEG C
Spectral Properties:
SADTLER REF NUMBER: 237 (IR, PRISM); 79 (IR,
GRATING)
Index of Refraction: 1.5053 at 20 deg C/D
IR: 4786 (Coblentz Society Spectral
Collection)
MASS: 1053 (Atlas of Mass Spectral Data, John
Wiley & Sons, New York)
Surface Tension:
31.74 dynes/cm at 20 deg C in contact with
vapor
Vapor Density:
5.7 (AIR= 1)
Vapor Pressure:
18.5 mm Hg @ 25 deg C
Relative Evaporation Rate:
EVAPORATION RATE SLOWER THAN THAT FOR
TRICHLOROETHYLENE, ABOUT 3-1.
Viscosity:
Liquid: 0.932, 0.839, 0.657 & 0.534 CP at
15, 25, 50 & 75 deg C, respectively; Vapor: 9900 CP at 60 deg C
Other Chemical/Physical Properties:
Liquid-water interfacial tension: 44.4
dynes/cm= 0.0444 N/m at 25 deg C
Conversion factors: 1 mg/l equals 147.4 ppm
and 1 ppm equals 6.78 mg/cu m at 25 deg C, 760 mm Hg
Partition coefficients at 37 deg C for tetrachloroethylene
into blood= 13.1; into oil= 1,920
Sat concn in air: 126 g/cu m at 20 deg C, 210
g/cu m at 30 deg C
DECOMP SLOWLY IN WATER TO YIELD
TRICHLOROACETIC AND HYDROCHLORIC ACIDS; OXIDIZED BY STRONG OXIDIZING AGENTS
Henry's law constant = 0.0177 atm-cu m/mole @
25 deg C
Hydroxyl radical rate constant = 1.67X10-13 cu
cm/molecule-sec @ 25 deg C
Chemical Safety & Handling:
Hazards Summary:
The major hazards encountered in the use and
handling of tetrachloroethylene stem from its
toxicologic properties. Exposure to this colorless liquid may occur from its use
as a solvent and as an intermediate in chemical syntheses. In addition to eye
and skin inflammation from contacting liquid tetrachloroethylene,
inhalation of its vapor can cause central nervous system depression, liver
necrosis, and effects on the lung, heart, and kidney. The ACGIH recommends a
workplace limit (TLV) of 50 ppm as an 8 hr time-weighted average (TWA) with a
note to prevent skin contact. Tetrachloroethylene's
sweet chloroform-like odor may warn of its presence at a sub-TLV level of 4.68
ppm; however, to assure against exposure, it is recommended that self-contained
breathing apparatus and full protective clothing be worn, especially in fire or
spill situations. Although considered nonflammable, containers of tetrachloroethylene
may explode in the heat of a fire and its vapor will decompose in contact with
open flames or red-heated materials to yield the poisonous gas, phosgene. For
small fires involving tetrachloroethylene, extinguish
with dry chemical or CO2, and for large fires, use water spray, fog, or foam.
Cool containers with water. If the fire involves a tank car or truck, isolate
the area for 1/2 mile in all directions. Tetrachloroethylene
should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location, away from strong
oxidizers, potential fire hazards, caustic soda, potash, and chemically active
metals such as barium, lithium, and beryllium. For small spills of tetrachloroethylene,
ventilate the area then take up with vermiculite, dry sand, or earth. Large
spills should be diked for later disposal. Prior to implementing land disposal
of waste residues (including waste sludge), consult environmental regulatory
agencies for guidance.
DOT Emergency Guidelines:
Health: Vapors may cause dizziness or
suffocation. Exposure in an enclosed area may be very harmful. Contact may
irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire may produce irritating and/or toxic gases.
Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.
Fire or explosion: Some of these materials may
burn, but none ignite readily. Most vapors are heavier than air. Air/vapor
mixtures may explode when ignited. Container may explode in heat of fire.
Public safety: CALL Emergency Response
Telephone Number ... . Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 25 to
50 meters (80 to 160 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away.
Stay upwind. Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along ground and
collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Keep out of low
areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering.
Protective clothing: Wear positive pressure
self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective
clothing will only provide limited protection.
Evacuation: ... Fire: If tank, rail car or
tank truck is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all
directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all
directions.
Fire: Small fires: Dry chemical, CO2 or water
spray. Large fires: Dry chemical, CO2, alcohol-resistant foam or water spray.
Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk. Dike fire control
water for later disposal; do not scatter the material. Fire involving tanks or
car/trailer loads: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders
or monitor nozzles. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well
after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting
safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in
fire.
Spill or leak: Eliminate all ignition sources
(no smoking, flares, sparks or flames in immediate area). Stop leak if you can
do it without risk. Small liquid spills: Take up with sand, earth or other
noncombustible absorbent material. Large spills: Dike far ahead of liquid spill
for later disposal. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined
areas.
First aid: Move victim to fresh air. Call 911
or emergency medical service. Apply artificial respiration if victim is not
breathing. Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. Remove and isolate
contaminated clothing and shoes. In case of contact with substance, immediately
flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes. For minor skin
contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin. Wash skin with soap and
water. Keep victim warm and quiet. Ensure that medical personnel are aware of
the material(s) involved, and take precautions to protect themselves.
Odor Threshold:
The distinctive odor of tetrachloroethylene
does not necessarily provide adequate warning. Because tetrachloroethylene
quickly desensitizes olfactory responses, persons can suffer exposure to vapor
concentrations in excess of TLV limits without smelling it.
Recognition in air: 4.68 ppm (chemically pure)
Perchloroethylene has
a not unpleasant etheral or aromatic odor. ... 50 ppm, odor threshold (very
faint) to unacclimated; no physiological effects (8 hr). 100 ppm, odor (faint)
definitely apparent to unacclimated; very faint to not perceptible during
exposure; no physiological effects (8 hr). 200 ppm, odor (definite) moderate to
faint upon exposure; faint to moderate eye irritation; minimal light-headedness;
(eye irritation threshold 100-200 ppm). 400 ppm, odor (strong) unpleasant;
definite eye irritation, slight nasal irritation; definite incoordination (2
hr). 600 ppm, odor (strong) very unpleasant but tolerable; definite eye &
nasal irritation; dizziness, loss of inhibitions (10 min). 1000 ppm, odor (very
strong) intense, irritating; markedly irritating to eyes & resp tract;
considerable dizziness (2 min). 1500 ppm, odor (almost intolerable)
"gagging"; irritation almost intolerable to eyes & nose; complete
incoordination within minutes to unconsciousness within 30 min.
Skin, Eye and Respiratory Irritations:
Eye exposure can lead to conjunctivitis; Skin
exposure can lead to inflamation; Inhalation can lead to respiratory tract
irritation.
Tetrachloroethylene
vapor is a mucous membrane & upper resp irritant at levels above 75 to 100
ppm.
Flash Point:
No flash point in conventional closed tester.
Fire Fighting Procedures:
Approach from upwind to avoid hazardous vapors
and toxic decomposition products. Use water spray to keep fire-exposed
containers cool. Use flooding quantities of water as fog or spray. Extinguish
fire using agent suitable for surrounding fire.
Toxic Combustion Products:
Combustion by-products may include hydrogen
chloride and phosgene.
Explosive Limits & Potential:
Mixtures with lithium shavings ... are
impact-sensitive and will explode, sometimes violently.
The presence of 0.5% of trichloroethylene as
impurity in tetrachloroethylene during unheated drying
over solid sodium hydroxide caused the generation of dichloroacetylene. After
subsequent fractional distillation, the volatile fore-run exploded.
Mixtures of /dinitrogen/ tetraoxide with ... tetrachloroethylene
are explosive when subjected to shock of 25 g TNT equivalent or less.
Hazardous Reactivities & Incompatibilities:
Granular barium in contact with ... tetrachloroethylene
... is susceptible to detonation.
Reacts with metals to form explosive mixtures;
Sodium hydroxide, possible explosion.
Several cases of violent reaction between
aluminum and ... tetrachloroethylene in vapor
degreasers have been noted.
Strong oxidizers; chemically-active metals
such as lithium, beryllium, and barium; caustic soda; sodium hydroxide; potash.
Strong oxidizers; chemically active metals
such as lithium, beryllium & barium; caustic soda; sodium hydroxide; potash.
Hazardous Decomposition:
When in contact with activated charcoal
decomposes to form hexachloroethane and hexachlorobenzene at 700 deg C.
... decomposes slowly in contact with moisture
to yield trichloroacetic acid and hydrochloric acid
It affords various decomp products depending
on conditions, but mostly hydrogen chloride & phosgene.
... If involved in a fire decomposes to
produce hydrogen chloride and phosgene.
Prior History of Accidents:
On September 28, 1982, an Illinois Gulf
Railroad freight train derailed 43 cars in Livingston, Louisiana. Thirty-six
cars were tank cars, of which 27 contained various regulated hazardous or toxic
chemical commodities, 2 contained nonregulated hazardous materials, and 5
contained flammable petroleum products. Fires resulted and toxic gases were
released into the atmosphere. Residents within a 5 mile radius of the derailment
were evacuated for up to two weeks. More than 200,000 gal of toxic chemical
products were spilled and absorbed into the ground. Extensive excavation of the
contaminated soil and its transportation to a distant dump site were required.
Property damage was estimated to be greater than 14 million dollars and
long-term closure of the railroad line and adjacent highway resulted. ...
Evacuation of the residents was accomplished successfully although no
contingency plan had been developed. The effort to contain and remove chemical
pollution resulting from the derailment was directed effectively by the
Louisiana Department of Natural Resources. The principal problem was tetrachloroethylene...
.
Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health:
NIOSH has recommended that tetrachloroethylene
be treated as a potential human carcinogen.
Protective Equipment & Clothing:
FOR HIGH VAPOR CONCN USE APPROVED CANISTER OR
AIR-SUPPLIED MASK; CHEMICAL GOGGLES OR FACE SHIELD; PLASTIC GLOVES.
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ...
dispensers of liq detergent /should be available./ ... Safety pipettes should be
used for all pipetting. ... In animal laboratory, personnel should ... wear
protective suits (preferably disposable, one-piece & close-fitting at ankles
& wrists), gloves, hair covering & overshoes. ... In chemical
laboratory, gloves & gowns should always be worn ... however, gloves should
not be assumed to provide full protection. Carefully fitted masks or respirators
may be necessary when working with particulates or gases, & disposable
plastic aprons might provide addnl protection. ... gowns ... /should be/ of
distinctive color, this is a reminder that they are not to be worn outside the
laboratory. /Chemical Carcinogens/
Wear appropriate personal protective clothing
to prevent skin contact.
Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye
contact.
Eyewash fountains should be provided in areas
where there is any possbility that workers could be exposed to the substance;
this is irrespective of the recommendation involving the wearing of eye
protection.
Facilities for quickly drenching the body
should be provided within the immediate work area for emergency use where there
is a possibility of exposure. [Note: It is intended that these facilities
provide a sufficient quantity or flow of water to quickly remove the substance
from any body areas likely to be exposed. The actual determination of what
constitutes an adequate quick drench facility depends on the specific
circumstances. In certain instances, a deluge shower should be readily
available, whereas in others, the availability of water from a sink or hose
could be considered adequate.]
Recommendations for respirator selection.
Condition: At concentrations above the NIOSH REL, or where there is no REL, at
any detectable concentration. Respirator Class(es): Any self-contained breathing
apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or
other positive pressure mode. Any supplied-air respirator that has a full face
piece and is operated in pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode in
combination with an auxiliary self-contained breathing apparatus operated in
pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode.
Recommendations for respirator selection.
Condition: Escape from suddenly occurring respiratory hazards: Respirator
Class(es): Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a
chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor canister. Any appropriate
escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus.
Preventive Measures:
Contact lenses should not be worn when working
with this chemical.
SRP: The scientific literature for the use of
contact lenses in industry is conflicting. The benefit or detrimental effects of
wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors
including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the
exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the
lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or
corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be
harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn.
In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when
contact lenses are in place.
The worker should immediately wash the skin
when it becomes contaminated.
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS":
Smoking, drinking, eating, storage of food or of food & beverage containers
or utensils, & the application of cosmetics should be prohibited in any
laboratory. All personnel should remove gloves, if worn, after completion of
procedures in which carcinogens have been used. They should ... wash ... hands,
preferably using dispensers of liq detergent, & rinse ... thoroughly.
Consideration should be given to appropriate methods for cleaning the skin,
depending on nature of the contaminant. No standard procedure can be
recommended, but the use of organic solvents should be avoided. Safety pipettes
should be used for all pipetting. /Chemical Carcinogens/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": In
animal laboratory, personnel should remove their outdoor clothes & wear
protective suits (preferably disposable, one-piece & close-fitting at ankles
& wrists), gloves, hair covering & overshoes. ... clothing should be
changed daily but ... discarded immediately if obvious contamination occurs ...
/also,/ workers should shower immediately. In chemical laboratory, gloves &
gowns should always be worn ... however, gloves should not be assumed to provide
full protection. Carefully fitted masks or respirators may be necessary when
working with particulates or gases, & disposable plastic aprons might
provide addnl protection. If gowns are of distinctive color, this is a reminder
that they should not be worn outside of lab. /Chemical Carcinogens/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ...
operations connected with synth & purification ... should be carried out
under well-ventilated hood. Analytical procedures ... should be carried out with
care & vapors evolved during ... procedures should be removed. ... Expert
advice should be obtained before existing fume cupboards are used ... & when
new fume cupboards are installed. It is desirable that there be means for
decreasing the rate of air extraction, so that carcinogenic powders can be
handled without ... powder being blown around the hood. Glove boxes should be
kept under negative air pressure. Air changes should be adequate, so that concn
of vapors of volatile carcinogens will not occur. /Chemical Carcinogens/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS":
Vertical laminar-flow biological safety cabinets may be used for containment of
in vitro procedures ... provided that the exhaust air flow is sufficient to
provide an inward air flow at the face opening of the cabinet, &
contaminated air plenums that are under positive pressure are leak-tight.
Horizontal laminar-flow hoods or safety cabinets, where filtered air is blown
across the working area towards the operator, should never be used ... Each
cabinet or fume cupboard to be used ... should be tested before work is begun (eg,
with fume bomb) & label fixed to it, giving date of test & avg air-flow
measured. This test should be repeated periodically & after any structural
changes. /Chemical Carcinogens/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS":
Principles that apply to chem or biochem lab also apply to microbiological &
cell-culture labs ... Special consideration should be given to route of admin.
... Safest method of administering volatile carcinogen is by injection of a soln.
Admin by topical application, gavage, or intratracheal instillation should be
performed under hood. If chem will be exhaled, animals should be kept under hood
during this period. Inhalation exposure requires special equipment. ... unless
specifically required, routes of admin other than in the diet should be used.
Mixing of carcinogen in diet should be carried out in sealed mixers under fume
hood, from which the exhaust is fitted with an efficient particulate filter.
Techniques for cleaning mixer & hood should be devised before expt begun.
When mixing diets, special protective clothing &, possibly, respirators may
be required. /Chemical Carcinogens/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": When
... admin in diet or applied to skin, animals should be kept in cages with solid
bottoms & sides & fitted with a filter top. When volatile carcinogens
are given, filter tops should not be used. Cages which have been used to house
animals that received carcinogens should be decontaminated. Cage-cleaning
facilities should be installed in area in which carcinogens are being used, to
avoid moving of ... contaminated /cages/. It is difficult to ensure that cages
are decontaminated, & monitoring methods are necessary. Situations may exist
in which the use of disposable cages should be recommended, depending on type
& amt of carcinogen & efficiency with which it can be removed. /Chemical
Carcinogens/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": To
eliminate risk that ... contamination in lab could build up during conduct of
expt, periodic checks should be carried out on lab atmospheres, surfaces, such
as walls, floors & benches, & ... interior of fume hoods & airducts.
As well as regular monitoring, check must be carried out after cleaning-up of
spillage. Sensitive methods are required when testing lab atmospheres for chem
such as nitrosamines. Methods ... should ... where possible, be simple &
sensitive. ... /Chemical Carcinogens/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Rooms
in which obvious contamination has occurred, such as spillage, should be
decontaminated by lab personnel engaged in expt. Design of expt should ... avoid
contamination of permanent equipment. ... Procedures should ensure that
maintenance workers are not exposed to carcinogens. ... Particular care should
be taken to avoid contamination of drains or ventilation ducts. In cleaning
labs, procedures should be used which do not produce aerosols or dispersal of
dust, ie, wet mop or vacuum cleaner equipped with high-efficiency particulate
filter on exhaust, which are avail commercially, should be used. Sweeping,
brushing & use of dry dusters or mops should be prohibited. Grossly
contaminated cleaning materials should not be re-used ... If gowns or towels are
contaminated, they should not be sent to laundry, but ... decontaminated or
burnt, to avoid any hazard to laundry personnel. /Chemical Carcinogens/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Doors
leading into areas where carcinogens are used ... should be marked distinctively
with appropriate labels. Access ... limited to persons involved in expt. ... A
prominently displayed notice should give the name of the Scientific Investigator
or other person who can advise in an emergency & who can inform others (such
as firemen) on the handling of carcinogenic substances. /Chemical Carcinogens/
The worker should immediately wash the skin
when it becomes contaminated.
Work clothing that becomes wet or
significantly contaminated should be removed or replaced.
Stability/Shelf Life:
RAPIDLY DETERIORATES IN WARM CLIMATES
Tetrachloroethylene
is stable up to 500 deg C in the absence of catalysts, moisture, and oxygen.
THE MATERIAL IS EXTREMELY STABLE & RESISTS
HYDROLYSIS
PURE CMPD IS SLOWLY DECOMP BY VARIOUS METALS
IN PRESENCE OF MOISTURE
The physical stability of emulsions of tetrachloroethylene
can be enhanced by diluting the tetrachloroethylene
with arachis oil before emulsification. This practice may be harmful because the
oil increases the absorption, & thus the toxicity, of the drug.
Shipment Methods and Regulations:
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS":
Procurement ... of unduly large amt ... should be avoided. To avoid spilling,
carcinogens should be transported in securely sealed glass bottles or ampoules,
which should themselves be placed inside strong screw-cap or snap-top container
that will not open when dropped & will resist attack from the carcinogen.
Both bottle & the outside container should be appropriately labelled. ...
National post offices, railway companies, road haulage companies & airlines
have regulations governing transport of hazardous materials. These authorities
should be consulted before ... material is shipped. /Chemical Carcinogens/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": When
no regulations exist, the following procedure must be adopted. The carcinogen
should be enclosed in a securely sealed, watertight container (primary
container), which should be enclosed in a second, unbreakable, leakproof
container that will withstand chem attack from the carcinogen (secondary
container). The space between primary & secondary container should be filled
with absorbent material, which would withstand chem attack from the carcinogen
& is sufficient to absorb the entire contents of the primary container in
the event of breakage or leakage. Each secondary container should then be
enclosed in a strong outer box. The space between the secondary container &
the outer box should be filled with an appropriate quantity of shock-absorbent
material. Sender should use fastest & most secure form of transport &
notify recipient of its departure. If parcel is not received when expected,
carrier should be informed so that immediate effort can be made to find it.
Traffic schedules should be consulted to avoid ... arrival on weekend or holiday
... /Chemical Carcinogens/
No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a
hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is
registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed,
described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required
or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./
The International Air Transport Association (IATA)
Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board
pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry
carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting
hazardous materials.
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods
Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed
recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for
good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A
general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should
always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be
used when shipping any substance or article.
Storage Conditions:
STORE IN COOL, DRY, WELL-VENTILATED LOCATION.
SEPARATE FROM ACTIVE METALS. ISOLATE FROM OPEN FLAMES, AND COMBUSTIBLES.
It is stored in mild steel tanks equipped with
breathing vents & chemical driers. It can be transferred through seamless
black iron pipes, with gasketing materials of compressed asbestos, asbestos
reinforced with metal, or asbestos impregnated with Teflon or Viton, employing
centrifugal or positive displacement pumps of cast iron or steel construction.
Small quantities ... may be stored safely in green or amber glass containers.
TEMPERATURE: AMBIENT. VENTING:
PRESSURE-VACUUM.
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS":
Storage site should be as close as practicable to lab in which carcinogens are
to be used, so that only small quantities required for ... expt need to be
carried. Carcinogens should be kept in only one section of cupboard, an
explosion-proof refrigerator or freezer (depending on chemicophysical properties
...) that bears appropriate label. An inventory ... should be kept, showing
quantity of carcinogen & date it was acquired ... Facilities for dispensing
... should be contiguous to storage area. /Chemical Carcinogens/
Cleanup Methods:
1. VENTILATE AREA OF SPILL OR LEAK. 2. COLLECT
FOR RECLAMATION OR ABSORB IN VERMICULITE, DRY SAND, EARTH, OR A SIMILAR
MATERIAL.
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": A
high-efficiency particulate arrestor (HEPA) or charcoal filters can be used to
minimize amt of carcinogen in exhausted air ventilated safety cabinets, lab
hoods, glove boxes or animal rooms ... Filter housing that is designed so that
used filters can be transferred into plastic bag without contaminating
maintenance staff is avail commercially. Filters should be placed in plastic
bags immediately after removal ... The plastic bag should be sealed immediately
... The sealed bag should be labelled properly ... Waste liquids ... should be
placed or collected in proper containers for disposal. The lid should be secured
& the bottles properly labelled. Once filled, bottles should be placed in
plastic bag, so that outer surface ... is not contaminated ... The plastic bag
should also be sealed & labelled. ... Broken glassware ... should be
decontaminated by solvent extraction, by chemical destruction, or in specially
designed incinerators. /Chemical Carcinogens/
Approach release from upwind. Stop or control
the leak, if this can be done without undue risk. Control runoff and isolate
discharged material for proper disposal.
Disposal Methods:
Generators of waste (equal to or greater than
100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number F002; U210,
must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and
disposal of waste.
TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
MAY BE DISPOSED OF BY ABSORBING IT IN VERMICULITE, DRY SAND, EARTH OR SIMILAR
MATERIAL & DISPOSING IN A SECURED SANITARY LANDFILL /SRP: MORE DESIRABLE
METHODS OF DISPOSAL ARE AVAILABLE/
... Tower aeration is the most cost-effective
technique for removing volatile organic chlorine chemicals from drinking water.
/Volatile organic chlorine chemicals/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": There
is no universal method of disposal that has been proved satisfactory for all
carcinogenic compounds & specific methods of chem destruction ... published
have not been tested on all kinds of carcinogen-containing waste. ... summary of
avail methods & recommendations ... /given/ must be treated as guide only.
/Chemical Carcinogens/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Total
destruction ... by incineration may be only feasible method for disposal of
contaminated laboratory waste from biological expt. However, not all
incinerators are suitable for this purpose.The most efficient type ... is
probably the gas-fired type, in which a first-stage combustion with a less than
stoichiometric air:fuel ratio is followed by a second stage with excess air.
Some ... are designed to accept ... aqueous & organic-solvent solutions,
otherwise it is necessary ... to absorb soln onto suitable combustible material,
such as sawdust. Alternatively, chem destruction may be used, esp when small
quantities ... are to be destroyed in laboratory. /Chemical Carcinogens/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": HEPA
(high-efficiency particulate arrestor) filters ... can be disposed of by
incineration. For spent charcoal filters, the adsorbed material can be stripped
off at high temp & carcinogenic wastes generated by this treatment conducted
to & burned in an incinerator. ... LIQUID WASTE: ... Disposal should be
carried out by incineration at temp that ... ensure complete combustion. SOLID
WASTE: Carcasses of lab animals, cage litter & misc solid wastes ... should
be disposed of by incineration at temp high enough to ensure destruction of chem
carcinogens or their metabolites. /Chemical Carcinogens/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ...
small quantities of ... some carcinogens can be destroyed using chem reactions
... but no general rules can be given. ... As a general technique ... treatment
with sodium dichromate in strong sulfuric acid can be used. The time necessary
for destruction ... is seldom known ... but 1-2 days is generally considered
sufficient when freshly prepd reagent is used. ... Carcinogens that are easily
oxidizable can be destroyed with milder oxidative agents, such as sat soln of
potassium permanganate in acetone, which appears to be a suitable agent for
destruction of hydrazines or of compounds containing isolated carbon-carbon
double bonds. Concn or 50% aqueous sodium hypochlorite can also be used as an
oxidizing agent. /Chemical Carcinogens/
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS":
Carcinogens that are alkylating, arylating, or acylating agents per se can be
destroyed by reaction with appropriate nucleophiles, such as water, hydroxyl
ions, ammonia, thiols, & thiosulfate. The reactivity of various alkylating
agents varies greatly ... & is also influenced by sol of agent in the
reaction medium. To facilitate the complete reaction, it is suggested that the
agents be dissolved in ethanol or similar solvents. ... No method should be
applied ... until it has been thoroughly tested for its effectiveness &
safety on material to be inactivated. For example, in case of destruction of
alkylating agents, it is possible to detect residual compounds by reaction with
4(4-nitrobenzyl)-pyridine. /Chemical Carcinogens/
Chemical Treatability of Tetrachloroethylene;
Concentration Process: Activated carbon; Chemical Classification: Halocarbon;
Scale of Study: Laboratory scale; Type of Wastewater Used: Well water; Results
of Study: Performance for treatment of water containing several halogens.
Virgin: 5100 BV to 33 ppb compound leakage; 13.3 days; gal treated/cu ft sorbent,
38,250. Regenerated: 4000 BV to 33 ppb compound leakage; 10.4 days; gal
treated/cu ft sorbent, 30.0; (column studies 14 mm diameter glass tubes, height
4 in (15 cu cm absorbent) Flow-2 gpm/cu ft (16 BV/hr) regenerated at 37 lb
steam/cu ft @ 5 psig).
Chemical Treatability of Tetrachloroethylene;
Concentration Process: Resin Adsorption; Chemical Classification: Halocarbon;
Scale of Study: Laboratory Scale; Type of Wastewater Used: Well Water; Comments:
Column studies: 14 mm diameter glass tubes, height 4 in (15 cu cm adsorbent)
Flow-2 gpm/cu ft (16 BV/hr) regenerated at 37 lb steam/cu ft @ 5 psig.
A potential candidate for liquid injection
incineration at a temperature range of 650 to 1,600 deg C and a residence time
of 0.1 to 2 seconds. A potential candidate for rotary kiln incineration at a
temperature range of 820 to 1,600 deg C and residence times of seconds for
liquids and gases, and hours for solids. A potential candidate for fluidized bed
incineration at a temperature range of 450 to 980 deg C and residence times of
seconds for liquids and gases, and longer for solids.
Incineration, preferably after mixing with
another combustible fuel. Care must be exercised to assure complete combustion
to prevent the formation of phosgene. An acid scrubber is necessary to remove
the halo acids produced. Alternatively, it may be recovered from waste gases and
reused. Recommendable method: Incineration.
Occupational Exposure Standards:
OSHA Standards:
Permissible Exposure Limit: Table Z-2 8-hr
Time Weighted Avg: 100 ppm.
Permissible Exposure Limit: Table Z-2
Acceptable Ceiling Concentration: 200 ppm.
Permissible Exposure Limit: Table Z-2
Acceptable maximum peak above the acceptable ceiling concentration for an 8-hour
shift. Concentration: 300 ppm. Maximum Duration: 5 minutes in any 3 hours.
Vacated 1989 OSHA PEL TWA 25 ppm (170 mg/cu m)
is still enforced in some states.
Threshold Limit Values:
8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA) 25 ppm; Short
Term Exposure Limit (STEL) 100 ppm
BEI (Biological Exposure Index) for Perchloroethylene:
Perchloroethylene in end-exhaled air prior to the last
shift of workweek is 5 ppm. (1997 adoption)
BEI (Biological Exposure Index) for Perchloroethylene:
Perchloroethylene in blood prior to the last shift of
workweek is 0.5 mg/l. (1997 adoption)
BEI (Biological Exposure Index) for Perchloroethylene:
Trichloroacetic acid in urine at end of shift at end of workweek is 3.5 mg/l.
The determinant is nonspecific, since it is observed after exposure to other
chemicals. The biological determinant is an indicator of exposure to the
chemical, but the quantitative interpretation of the measurement is ambiguous.
These determinants should be used as a screening test if a quantitative test is
not practical or as a confirmatory test if the quantitative test is not specific
and the origin of the determinant is in question. (1997 Adoption)
A3: Confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown
relevance to humans.
NIOSH Recommendations:
NIOSH recommends that tetrachloroethylene
be regulated as a potential human carcinogen.
NIOSH usually recommends that occupational
exposures to carcinogens be limited to the lowest feasible concn.
Minimize workplace exposure concentrations;
limit number of workers exposed.
Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health:
NIOSH has recommended that tetrachloroethylene
be treated as a potential human carcinogen.
Other Occupational Permissible Levels:
Maximum allowable concentrations range from 10
mg/cu m (1.5 ppm, ceiling value) in the USSR, 140 mg/cu m (20 ppm, TWA) in
Sweden, and 250 mg/cu m (37 ppm) in Czechoslovakia to 340 mg/cu m (50 ppm) in
the Federal Republic of Germany, Japan. Short-term exposure limits range from
340 mg/cu m (50 ppm) in Sweden to 1250 mg/cu m (183 ppm) in Czechoslovakia and
1340 mg/cu m (200 ppm) in the USA. The acceptable limit in Brazil is 525 mg/cu m
(78 ppm) for 48 hr per week.
Maximum allowable concentrations are 1.0 mg/cu
m average per day or 4.0 mg/cu m average per 0.5 hr in Czechoslovakia and 0.06
mg/cu m average per day in the USSR.
Emergency Response Planning Guidelines (ERPG):
ERPG(1) 100 ppm (no more than mild, transient effects) for up to 1 hr exposure;
ERPG(2) 200 ppm (without serious, adverse effects) for up to 1 hr exposure;
ERPG(3) 1000 ppm (not life threatening) up to 1 hr exposure.
Manufacturing/Use Information:
Major Uses:
For Tetrachloroethylene
(USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 078501) there are 0 labels match. /SRP: Not
registered for current use in the U.S., but approved pesticide uses may change
periodically and so federal, state and local authorities must be consulted for
currently approved uses./
Used in the textile industry for dry-cleaning
& for processing & finishing; used in both cold cleaning & vapor
degreasing of metals; it is used as a chem intermediate in the synthesis of
fluorocarbon 113, 114, 115, & 116; it is used as a heat-exchange fluid
SCOURING, SIZING & DESIZING AGENT IN
TEXTILE MANUFACTURE
COMPONENT OF AEROSOL LAUNDRY-TREATMENT
PRODUCTS
SOLVENT, EG, FOR SILICONES
Insulating fluid and cooling gas in electric
transformers
In typewriter correction fluids (eg, Liquid
Paper, Wite-Out, Snopake, etc)
Formerly used, but no longer approved, in
mixtures with grain protectants and certain liquid grain fumigants
MEDICATION (VET): After the advent of
phenothiazine ... little use has been made of the chlorinated hydrocarbons ...
/as a ruminant anthelmintic/. Tetrachloroethylene has
continued to be used in small animals over the years but has been largely
replaced by drugs that are less toxic & easier to admin.
Manufacturers:
Dow Chemical USA, Hq 2030 Dow Center, Midland,
MI 48674, (517) 636-1000; Production site: Plaquemine, LA 70764
PPG Industries, Inc, Hq One PPG Place,
Pittsburgh, PA 15272, (412) 434-3131; Production site: Chemicals Group, Lake
Charles, LA 70601
Vulcan Materials Company, Metal Division, Hq,
PO Box 530930, Birmingham, AL 35253, (205) 877-3000; Vulcan Chemicals, division,
PO Box 7689, Birmingham, AL 35253; Production site: Geismar, LA 70734
Methods of Manufacturing:
Manufactured by catalytic oxidn of
1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane: Ellsworth, vancamp, US patent 2,951,103 (1960 to
Columbia-Southern Chem); Feathers, Rogerson, US patent 3,040,109 (1962 to
Pittsburgh Plate Glass) ... by catalytic chlorination of acetylene: Thermet,
Parvi, US patent 2,938,931 (1960 to Societe d'electrochimie,
d'electrometallurgie et des acieries electriques d'Ugine).
Prepared primarily by two processes: (1) The
Huels method whereby direct chlorination of ethylene yields 70% perchloroethylene,
20% carbon tetrachloride, and 10% other chlorinated products; (2) Hydrocarbons
such as methane, ethane, or propane are simultaneously chlorinated and pyrolyzed
to yield over 95% perchloroethylene plus carbon
tetrachloride and hydrochloric acid.
Tetrachloroethylene
is produced mainly by oxyhydrochlorination, perchlorination, and/or
dehydrochlorination of hydrocarbons or chlorinated hydrocarbons such as 1,2
dichloroethane, propylene, propylene dichloride, and 1,1,2-trichloroethane.
General Manufacturing Information:
Method of purification: distillation
Formulations/Preparations:
Available in the United States ... in
veterinary preparations (eg, Nema Worm Capsules (Parke-Davis)). These capsules
contain pure tetrachloroethylene. Avail sizes are 0.2,
0.5, 1.0, 2.5 & 5 ml.
Tetrachloroethylene
is avail in the USA in the following grades: purified, technical, USP,
spectrophotometric, & dry-cleaning. The technical & dry-cleaning grades
both meet specifications for technical grade & differ only in the amount of
stabilizer added to prevent decomposition. Stabilizers ... incl amines or
mixtures of epoxides & esters. Typical analysis of the commercial grade is
... nonvolatile residue, 0.0003%; free chlorine, none; moisture, no cloud at -5
deg C ... USP grade contains not less than 99.0% & no more than 99.5% tetrachloroethylene,
the remainder consisting of ethanol. ...
Food Grade
/Tetrachloroethylene
(BP) may/ ... contain thymol 0.01% wt/wt as a preservative.
Tetrachloroethylene
Capsules (USP, BP, 1973)
Tetrachloroethylene
Draught (BNF, 1966): tetrachloroethylene 2.5 ml, acacia
2 g, peppermint emulsion 0.3 ml, chloroform water to 50 ml.
Perklone (ICI Mond,
UK): a brand of tetrachloroethylene for dry-cleaning
purposes.
Consumption Patterns:
The consumption pattern in the USA in 1974 is
est to have been as follows: Textile and dry cleaning industries, 69%; Metal
cleaning, 16%; Chemical intermediate (eg, prepn of trichloroacetic acid in some
fluorocarbons), 12%; Miscellaneous uses, 3%.
Demand: (1982), 545 million lb; (1983), 679
million lb; (1987), 625 million lb
(1974) Dry cleaning & textile processing,
59%; Industrial metal cleaning, 21%; Exports, 11%; Chemical intermed (mostly
fluorocarbons), 6%; Other, 3%.
SOLVENT IN DRY CLEANING, 46%; DEGREASING
SOLVENT, 21%; CHEM INTERMED FOR FLUOROCARBONS, 12%; AGENT IN TEXTILE MFR, 7%;
COMPONENT OF AEROSOL PRODUCTS, 2%; OTHER, 12% (1980, EST)
CHEMICAL PROFILE: Perchloroethylene.
Demand: 1988: 495 million lb; 1989: 495 million lb; 1993 /projected/: 495
million lb. (Includes exports, but not imports, which totaled 121 million lb
last yr).
CHEMICAL PROFILE: Perchloroethylene.
Dry cleaning and textile processing, 50%; chemical intermediate (mostly
fluorocarbon F-113), 28%; industrial metal cleaning, 9%; exports, 10%; other,
3%.
Demand: (1996) 280 million pounds; (1997) 290
million pounds; (2001, projected) 335 million pounds
(1998) 312 million pounds; (1999) 318 million
pounds; (2003) /projected/ 340 million pounds
Chemical precursor, 50 percent; dry cleaning,
21 percent; metal cleaning and vapor degreasing, 18 percent; other, 11 percent.
U. S. Production:
(1981) 3.16X10+11 GRAMS
(1976) 121x10+6 lb
(1978) 3.34X10+11 G
(1983) 2.40X10+11 G
(1985) 3.08X10+11 g
(1986) 4.05X10+8 LB
(1987) 4.70X10+8 LB
(1982) 550 million lb
(1974) 333,100 tons; (1976) 303,400 tons;
(1978) 333,400 tons; (1980) 347,100 tons; (1982) 265,300 tons; (1984) 260,000
tons; (1986) 187,800 tons; (1988) 225,800 tons; (1989) 218,300 tons; (1990)
132,300 tons.
U. S. Imports:
(1977) 5.98X10+10 G
(1982) 1.70X10+10 G
(1985) 6.36X10+10 g
(1986) 1.83X10+5 LB
61 million pounds in 1996.
U. S. Exports:
(1978) 2.90X10+10 G
(1983) 2.47X10+10 G
(1985) 9.84X10+9 g
48 million pounds in 1996.
Laboratory Methods:
Clinical Laboratory Methods:
DETERMINATION OF TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
IN FISH BY GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY; DETECTION LIMITS IN 0.1-1.0 PPB RANGE.
The expired breath of subjects, exposed for
periods of approx 90 min to atmospheres artificially contaminated with low
levels ... tetrachloroethylene (approx 50 ppm), was
monitored during and after the exposure period using an atm pressure ionization
mass spectrometer (API/MS), fitted with a direct breath analysis system. The
retention of solvent by the subjects estimated from steady state levels in the
expired breath, averaged 87%. The elimination of unchanged solvent via
respiration during the post exposure period followed first order kinetics a with
mean half-life value of 79 min.
NIOSH Method 3704. Perchloroethylene
in exhaled breath and air. Portable GC/PID.
Analytic Laboratory Methods:
A freeze-out concn method is used to determine
trace levels of tetrachloroethylene in the presence of
other cmpd. Detection limit is 0.2 ppt (1.36X10-6 mg/cu m) for 500 ml aliquots
of ambient air samples. Samples are measured by gas chromatography coupled with
electron capture configuration. When freeze-out is completed, tetrachloroethylene
remains behind; While oxygen and nitrogen gasses are passed through as the
freeze-out loop is heated. Carrier gas sweeps the contents onto the column.
DETERMINATION OF TRACE AMT OF 136 C1-C13 ORG
CMPD (INCL TETRACHLOROETHYLENE) IN AIR SAMPLES
COLLECTED FROM THE ATMOSPHERE OF STREETS BY GC IS DISCUSSED.
TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
IN DRINKING WATER IS ANALYZED DIRECTLY WITH GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY EQUIPPED WITH
ELECTRON CAPTURE DETECTION. THE LIMIT OF DETECTION IS 0.5 UG/L (NICHOLSON AA ET
AL; ANAL CHEM 49: 814-9 (1977)).
TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
WAS DETERMINED IN WASTE-CONTAMINATED SOIL AND CHEMICAL STILL BOTTOM EXTRACTS BY
GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY.
DETERMINATION OF TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
IN FISH BY GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY; DETECTION LIMITS IN 0.1-1.0 PPB RANGE.
NIOSH Method 1003. Analyte: Tetrachloroethylene;
Matrix: air; Procedure: Gas chromatography, flame ionization detector;
Desorption: 1 ml CS2, stand 30 min; Range: 0.4 to 12 mg/sample; Precision:
0.052; Est LOD: 0.01 mg/sample; Interferences: none
EPA Method 8010: Halogenated Volatile
Organics. For the analysis of solid waste ... Under the prescribed conditions, tetrachloroethylene
has a detection limit of 0.03 ug/l, an average recovery range of four
measurements of 8.1-29.6 ug/l, and a limit for the standard deviation of 5.4 ug/l.
EPA Method 8240B: Gas Chromatography/Mass
Spectrometry for Volatile Organics Method 8240 can be used to quantify most
volatile organic commpounds that have boiling points below 200 deg C and that
are insoluble or slightly soluble in water, including the title compound. ...
Under the prescribed conditions, tetrachloroethylene
has an average recovery range for four samples of 17.0-26.6 ug/l with a limit
for the standard deviation of 5.0 ug/l and a retention time of 22.2 min.
EPA Method 601 A purge and trap gas
chromatography method for the analysis of tetrachloroethylene
in municipal and industrial discharges, consists of a stainless steel column, 8
ft x 0.1 in ID, packed with Carbopack B (60/80 mesh) coated with SP-1000, with
electrolytic conductivity detection, and helium as the carrier gas at a flow
rate of 40 ml/min. A sample injection volume of 2 to 5 ul is suggested, the
column temperature is held isothermal at 45 deg C for 3 minutes then programmed
at 8 deg/min to final temperature of 220 deg C. This method has a detection
limit of 0.03 ug/l and an overall precision of 0.18 times the average recovery
+2.21, over a working range of 8.0 to 500 ug/l.
EPA Method 624: A purge and trap gas
chromatography/mass spectrometry method for the analysis of tetrachloroethylene
in municipal and industrial discharges, consists of a glass column, 6 ft x 0.1
in, packed with Carbopack B (60/80 mesh) coated with 1% SP-1000, with the
detection performed by the mass spectrometer, and helium as the carrier gas at a
flow rate of 30 ml/min. A sample injection volume of 2 to 5 ul is suggested, the
column temperature is held isothermal at 45 deg C for 3 minutes and then
programmed at 8 deg/min to a final temperature of 220 deg C. This method has a
detection limit of 4.1 ug/l and an overall precision of 0.16 times the average
recovery - 0.45, over a working range of 5 to 600 ug/l.
EPA Method 1624: An isotope dilution gas
chromatography/ mass spectrometry method for the determination of volatile
organic compounds in municipal and industrial discharges is described. This
method is designed to meet the survey requirements of Effluent Guidelines
Division (EGD) and the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES).
Under the prescribed conditions, unlabeled tetrachloroethylene
has a minimum level of 10 ug/l and a mean retention time of 1528 sec. The
labeled compound has a characteristic primary m/z of 166/172. This method has an
initial precision of 6.6 ug/l, an accuracy of 15.1-28.5 ug/l, and a labeled
compound recovery of 31-181%.
AOB Method VA-005-1. Volatile Organic
Compounds (VOCs) in Ambient Air by Purge and Trap Gas Chromatography. No
detection limit.
AOB Method VA-006-1. Volatile Organic
Compounds (VOCs) in Ambient Air by Direct Portable GC/PID. No detection limit.
AOB Method VA-008-1. Volatile Organic
Compounds (VOCs) in Ambient Air by Portable GC/PID with Direct Sampling via Pump
and Sample Loop. No detection limit.
APHA Method 6210-D. Volatile Organics in Water
by Gas Chromatographic/ Mass Spectrometric Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Technique. No detection limit
APHA Method 6220-C. Volatile Aromatic Organics
in Water by Purge and Trap Gas Chromatography. Detection limit = 0.05 ug/l.
APHA Method 6230-C. Volatile Aromatic Organics
in Water by Purge and Trap Gas Chromatography. Detection limit = 0.03 ug/l.
AOB Method VS-001-1. Volatile Organic
Compounds (VOCs) in Soil by Purge and Trap GC/PID/ELCD. Detection limit = 10 ug/kg.
AOB Method VS-001-1. Volatile Organic
Compounds (VOCs) in Soil and Sediment by Automated Headspace GC/PID/ELCD.
Detection limit = 100 ug/kg.
Sampling Procedures:
Volatile organic compounds pose a challenge to
ground-water sampling protocols, since they can be lost as a water sample
degasses or lost due to sorption on tubing or pump materials. Laboratory
sorption experiments were conducted with 5 common flexible tubing materials to
determine the impact of sorptive bias for chloroform, trichloroethylene,
trichloroethane and tetrachloroethylene. Tubes made of
Teflon, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride and silicone rubber were
all found to sorb the test compounds in short exposure periods. Virgin tubing
materials introduce substantial amounts of leachable organic matter in similar
exposures. Tubing made of Teflon showed the least absorption and leaching
problems and should be the tubing material of choice for detailed organic
sampling purposes. Absorption into the polymer matrix is the likely mechanism
for the errors.
Analyte: Tetrachloroethylene;
Matrix: Air; Sampler: Solid sorbent tube (coconut shell charcoal, 100 mg/50 mg);
Flow rate: 0.01-0.2 l/min; Vol: min: 0.2 @ 100 ppm, max: 40; Stability: not
determined
Special References:
Special Reports:
IKEDA M; IGAKU NO AYUMI 102 (6-7): 453-9
(1977). REVIEW OF INDUCTION OF LIVER ANGIOSARCOMA, HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA,
NEPHROBLASTOMA, PULMONARY TUMOR, KIDNEY ADENOCARCINOMA, & MAMMARY CARCINOMA
BY CHLORINATED ETHYLENES IN RATS & MICE INCL CORRELATION OF EFFECTS TO DOSE,
AGE & SEX.
UTZINGER R, SCHLATTER C; CHEMOSPHERE 6 (9):
517-24 (1977). A REVIEW ON THE TOXICITY OF TRACE AMT OF TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
IN WATER WITH EMPHASIS ON MUTAGENICITY, CARCINOGENICITY & MIXED FUNCTION
OXIDASE.
HAKE CL, STEWART RD; ENVIRON HEALTH PERSPECT
21: 231-8 (1977). REVIEW OF ACCIDENTAL & CONTROLLED EXPOSURE OF HUMANS TO TETRACHLOROETHYLENE.
WALTER P ET AL; CHLORINATED HYDROCARBON
TOXICITY (1,1,1-TRICHLOROETHANE, TRICHLOROETHYLENE, & TETRACHLOROETHYLENE):
A MONOGRAPH. US NTIS, PB REP; ISS PB-257185, 178 PP (1976). REVIEW WITH 91
REFERENCES. RESULTS OF A STUDY OF THE 1920-1975 LITERATURE ON TOXICITY OF TETRACHLOROETHYLENE.
DHHS/ATSDR; Toxicological Profile for Tetrachloroethylene
(Update) TP-92/18 (1993)
NIOSH Current Intelligence Bulletin No 20 for Tetrachloroethylene
(1978)
WHO; Environmental Health Criteria for Tetrachloroethylene
No 31 (1984)
USEPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Tetrachloroethylene
(1980) EPA 440/5-80-073
SRI; Assessment of Human Exposures to
Atmospheric Perchloroethylene Contract No 68-02-2835
(1979)
USEPA; Health Effects Assessment for Tetrachloroethylene
EPA/540/1-86/009 (1984)
USEPA; Health Advisories for 25 Organics: Tetrachloroethylene
(1987) PB 87-235578
DHEW/NCI; Bioassay of Tetrachloroethylene
for Possible Carcinogenicity (1977) Technical Rpt Series No. 13 DHEW Pub No. (NIH)
77-813
DHHS/NTP; Toxicology & Carcinogenesis
Studies of Tetrachloroethylene in F344/N Rats and
B6C3F1 Mice (Inhalation Studies) Technical Report Series No. 311 (1986) NIH
Publication No. 86-2567
U.S. Department of Health & Human
Services/National Toxicology Program; Tenth Report on Carcinogens. National
Institutes of Environmental Health Sciences. The Report on Carcinogens is an
informational scientific and public health document that identifies and
discusses substances (including agents, mixtures, or exposure circumstances)
that may pose a carcinogenic hazard to human health. Tetrachloroethylene
(127-18-4) was first listed in the Fifth Annual Report on Carcinogens (1989) as
reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.
Synonyms and Identifiers:
Synonyms:
AI3-01860
**PEER REVIEWED**
Ankilostin
**PEER REVIEWED**
Antisal 1
**PEER REVIEWED**
Antisol 1
**PEER REVIEWED**
Caswell no 827
**PEER REVIEWED**
CZTEROCHLOROETYLEN (POLISH)
**PEER REVIEWED**
Didakene
**PEER REVIEWED**
Dow-Per
**PEER REVIEWED**
ENT 1,860
**PEER REVIEWED**
EPA pesticide chemical code 078501
**PEER REVIEWED**
ETHENE, TETRACHLORO-
**PEER REVIEWED**
ETHYLENE TETRACHLORIDE
**PEER REVIEWED**
Ethylene, tetrachloro-
**PEER REVIEWED**
Fedal-Un
**PEER REVIEWED**
NCI-C04580
**PEER REVIEWED**
Nema
**PEER REVIEWED**
PCE
**PEER REVIEWED**
Per
**PEER REVIEWED**
Perawin
**PEER REVIEWED**
Perc
**PEER REVIEWED**
PERCHLOORETHYLEEN, PER (DUTCH)
**PEER REVIEWED**
Perchlor
**PEER REVIEWED**
PERCHLORAETHYLEN, PER (GERMAN)
**PEER REVIEWED**
PERCHLORETHYLENE
**PEER REVIEWED**
PERCHLORETHYLENE, PER
(FRENCH)
**PEER REVIEWED**
PERCHLOROETHYLENE
**PEER REVIEWED**
Perclene
**PEER REVIEWED**
PERCLOROETILENE
(ITALIAN)
**PEER REVIEWED**
Percosolv
**PEER REVIEWED**
Perk
**PEER REVIEWED**
Perklone
**PEER REVIEWED**
Persec
**PEER REVIEWED**
Tetlen
**PEER REVIEWED**
Tetracap
**PEER REVIEWED**
TETRACHLOORETHEEN
(DUTCH)
**PEER REVIEWED**
TETRACHLORAETHEN
(GERMAN)
**PEER REVIEWED**
TETRACHLORETHYLENE
**PEER REVIEWED**
TETRACHLOROETHENE
**PEER REVIEWED**
1,1,2,2-TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
**PEER REVIEWED**
TETRACLOROETENE
(ITALIAN)
**PEER REVIEWED**
Tetraguer
**PEER REVIEWED**
Tetraleno
**PEER REVIEWED**
Tetralex
**PEER REVIEWED**
Tetravec
**PEER REVIEWED**
Tetroguer
**PEER REVIEWED**
Tetropil
**PEER REVIEWED**
Formulations/Preparations:
Available in the United States ... in
veterinary preparations (eg, Nema Worm Capsules (Parke-Davis)). These capsules
contain pure tetrachloroethylene. Avail sizes are 0.2,
0.5, 1.0, 2.5 & 5 ml.
Tetrachloroethylene
is avail in the USA in the following grades: purified, technical, USP,
spectrophotometric, & dry-cleaning. The technical & dry-cleaning grades
both meet specifications for technical grade & differ only in the amount of
stabilizer added to prevent decomposition. Stabilizers ... incl amines or
mixtures of epoxides & esters. Typical analysis of the commercial grade is
... nonvolatile residue, 0.0003%; free chlorine, none; moisture, no cloud at -5
deg C ... USP grade contains not less than 99.0% & no more than 99.5% tetrachloroethylene,
the remainder consisting of ethanol. ...
Food Grade
/Tetrachloroethylene
(BP) may/ ... contain thymol 0.01% wt/wt as a preservative.
Tetrachloroethylene
Capsules (USP, BP, 1973)
Tetrachloroethylene
Draught (BNF, 1966): tetrachloroethylene 2.5 ml, acacia
2 g, peppermint emulsion 0.3 ml, chloroform water to 50 ml.
Perklone (ICI Mond,
UK): a brand of tetrachloroethylene for dry-cleaning
purposes.
Shipping Name/ Number DOT/UN/NA/IMO:
UN 1897; Tetrachloroethylene;
Perchloroethylene
IMO 6.1; Tetrachloroethylene
Standard Transportation Number:
49 403 55; Tetrachloroethylene
EPA Hazardous Waste Number:
U210; A toxic waste when a discarded
commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an
off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical
intermediate.
F002; A hazardous waste from nonspecific
sources when a spent halogenated solvent.
Administrative Information:
Hazardous Substances Databank Number: 124
Last Revision Date: 20030829
Last Review Date: Reviewed by SRP on 1/20/2001
Update History:
Complete Update on 2003-08-29, 1 fields
added/edited/deleted
Complete Update on 02/14/2003, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 11/08/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 10/16/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 05/31/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 05/13/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/13/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 01/14/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 08/09/2001, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 05/23/2001, 85 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/22/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/11/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/08/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/02/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 11/18/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/21/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 08/26/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 07/20/1999, 3 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 05/18/1999, 7 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 05/04/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 03/29/1999, 2 fields added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 03/19/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/24/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/01/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 01/20/1999, 3 fields added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 12/18/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 11/12/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/11/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 06/02/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/25/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 10/17/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 05/08/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 03/27/1997, 2 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 03/11/1997, 3 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/24/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 01/09/1997, 2 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/12/1996, 2 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/11/1996, 2 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 06/06/1996, 2 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 05/10/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 04/09/1996, 8 fields added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 01/18/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/26/1995, 2 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 06/09/1995, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/13/1995, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 01/23/1995, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 12/19/1994, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 08/02/1994, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 06/28/1994, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 05/05/1994, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 03/25/1994, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 01/17/1994, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 11/05/1993, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/15/1993, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 08/07/1993, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 08/04/1993, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 04/28/1993, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field update on 12/11/1992, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 12/03/1992, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 04/27/1992, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 04/01/1992, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 03/11/1992, 4 fields added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 01/13/1992, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 09/27/1991, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 10/23/1990, 8 fields added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 08/23/1990, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 05/14/1990, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 05/04/1990, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 02/02/1990, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 01/15/1990, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 01/11/1990, 5 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 07/28/1989, 108 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/03/1987
Created 19830315 by DS
GLCC RELATED TOXIC SUBSTANCES
FOUND IN THE CAMP POND AND CAMP WATER WELL 2003 AND 2004