Perchloroethylene (PCE)

What is Perchloroethylene?

Perchloroethylene, also known as Tetrachloroethylene (PCE), is a haloalkane with the chemical formula C2Cl4.

• It is a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic odor.
• It has a stable structure and does not undergo hydrolysis.
• It is a powerful solvent with the ability to dissolve most organic substances.
• Its most common use is in the dry cleaning industry, but it is also found in paints, plastics, metal processing, and cleaning products.
• Because it poses risks to human health and the environment, its use has been restricted or banned in some countries.

Perchloroethylene Properties

In Which Industries Is Perchloroethylene Used?

• Textile and Leather Industry
  • Its most common use is in dry cleaning processes.
  • It is a powerful solvent for removing oil, dirt, and stains from fabrics.
• Paint and Ink Industry
  • Used as a solvent in formulations.
  • Improves the fluidity and performance of paints and inks.
• Industrial Cleaning Products
  • It is preferred for surface cleaning and dissolving heavy dirt.
• Metal Processing Industry
  • Used to remove oil and grease from metal surfaces.
• Plastic and Resin Production
  • It is used as a solvent in the production of certain polymers and plastics.

Note: Due to environmental and health impacts, its use has been reduced in some countries and alternative solvents have been adopted.

How is Perchloroethylene Produced?

Perchloroethylene production is typically carried out by the catalytic chlorination of ethylene (C2H4) and chlorine (Cl2) gases:

1. Reaction Phase
   • Ethylene and chlorine gases react at high temperatures in the presence of special catalysts.
   • The reaction produces perchloroethylene (C2Cl4) and HCl as a byproduct.

C2H4+2Cl2→C2Cl4+2HClC2H4 + 2Cl2 → C2Cl4 + 2HClC2H4+2Cl2→C2Cl4+2HCl

1. Purification
   • The obtained PCE is purified through distillation and other processes.
   • It is made suitable for industrial use.
2. Environmental Factors
   • Due to the effects of perchloroethylene on the environment and human health, this method has been restricted in some countries.
   • Today, more environmentally friendly production and alternative solvents are preferred.