Trichloroethylene (TCE)

GENERAL INFORMATION
Trichloroethylene, a volatile organic chemical, is a colorless or blue liquid with a chloroform-like odor. Trichloroethylene is primarily used to remove grease from fabricated metal parts and in the production of some textiles. The major source of trichloroethylene in drinking water is discharge from metal degreasing sites and other factories. Wastewater from metal finishing, paint and ink formulation, electrical components, and rubber processing industries may also contain trichloroethylene.

HEALTH EFFECTS
Some people who drink water containing trichloroethylene well in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for many years could experience problems with their liver and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.

Standard value 1: 
5.00
Standard units 1: 
ppb
Input units: 
ug/L
ppb
Contaminant group: 
VOC
Standard type 1: 
MCL
Action is recommended 1: 

MCL ADVISORY - ACTION IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Trichloroethylene levels were detected in your water sample to exceed the maximum contaminant level (MCL).

Action is optional 1: 

ACTION IS OPTIONAL
Trichloroethylene levels were detected in your water sample but do not exceed the maximum contaminant level.

Typical range in Ohio: 
detection suggest human source
Major sources in drinking water: 
Discharge from metal degreasing sites and other factories
Treatment options: 

TREATMENT OPTIONS
Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) or Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC) are considered the best available technologies (BAT) for treatment of many organic contaminants including organic pesticides, volatile organic compound (VOCs), and Trihalomethanes (THMs) (by-products of chlorination). Treatment can be at the tap (called point of use or POU) or the entire house.

Website resources: 

WEBSITE RESOURCES

Fact sheets: 

FACT SHEETS