By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff
Trichloroethylene is a volatile organic compound that is primarily used to process refrigerants. It is also used as a metal degreasing solvent since it is relatively inexpensive, has a low fire risk, quickly evaporates and requires no rinsing. For the latter use, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified some potential health risks and would prefer voluntarily limiting exposure or switching to alternative chemicals.
The EPA is specifically proposing that any new use for the chemical beyond cleaners and solvent degreasers be subject to the “Significant New Use Rule,” which allows the agency to evaluate the intended use.
For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.