Why trichloroethylene is harmful to health

Trichloroethylene (trichlorethylene) is primarily used as a solvent and degreaser because it dissolves greases, oils, waxes, resins, and some adhesives very well. For example, it effectively removes certain stains from fabrics and is used to thoroughly clean surfaces before gluing or painting.

But few consumers know that the sale of this product has been severely restricted by the European Union, and therefore also in Italy, as it is now known that it is a toxic solvent and dangerous to health , as well as problematic for the environment.

In particular, trichloroethylene should not be used because:

• It is carcinogenic: prolonged or repeated exposure is associated with an increased risk of certain cancers. The European Union itself has Trichloroethylene classified as a category 1B carcinogen according to il CLP Regulation. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies trichloroethylene in Group 1 of carcinogenic substances: it has been demonstrated that prolonged exposure drastically increases the risk of developing the disease. kidney cancer, liver tumor and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. 
• Furthermore, trichloroethylene is classified as a suspected mutagen, irritant to skin and eyes, and harmful to aquatic organisms with long-lasting effects.
• It damages the nervous system: Inhalation of vapors may cause headache, dizziness, drowsiness and, at high concentrations, loss of consciousness.
• It can damage the liver and kidneys in case of significant or prolonged exposure.
• Recent epidemiological studies and court rulings have confirmed a direct link between the inhalation of trichloroethylene and the death of dopaminergic neurons, identifying the solvent as a strong environmental risk factor for the development of Parkinson's disease.
• It is easily absorbed through inhalation and, to some extent, through the skin.
• It is a persistent environmental pollutant: if it reaches the soil or groundwater it can contaminate them for a long time.
• Being highly volatile, it can pass from soil or contaminated water into the air. In certain sites, it can also occur vapor intrusion: Vapors present in the subsoil can enter buildings through cracks and pipes.
• Trichloroethylene can be harmful to aquatic organisms and may cause long-lasting adverse effects.
• It is not a substance that, once spilled, simply “disappears”: it can migrate through the subsoil and reach areas far from its point of origin.

For home use, there are several natural alternatives to trichloroethylene, which are effective and have no side effects. 

Read also:

• How to remove paint stains
• Natural remedies to remove perfume stains