ABSTRACT
Trichloroethylene (TCE) can be produced commercially from either ethylene or acetylene. In practice, as the chlorination of acetylene leads to the production of 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane, this product is dehydrochlorinated in either the liquid or vapour phase to TCE. Perchloroethylene and TCE are co-produced by the chlorination-oxychlorination of ethylene dichloride. The ratio of perchloroethylene to TCE can be varied by altering the chlorine-ethylene dichloride balance. Heat from the exothermic reaction distils the TCE formed overhead which is collected as an azeotrope. After removal of the hydrogen chloride by degassing, TCE is separated from heavy ends by distillation. TCE vapour is irritating to nose, throat and eyes; moderate exposure can cause headaches, irritability, fatigue and nausea. The effects of TCE are enhanced by caffeine, alcohol and some drugs. In certain individuals, the synergistic effects of TCE and alcohol result in a red, blotchy skin rash.
