On October 23,2023,the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued an important proposal regarding the widely used chemical substance trichloroethylene (TCE).Below,we will detail four key aspects of this proposal:

Primary uses of TCE

TCE is a volatile organic compound with extensive applications in daily life and industrial production.

TCE is commonly used in the manufacturing of cleaning and furniture care products.

It is also essential in the substrate bonding process for furniture.

Degreasers,brake cleaners,and tire repair sealants all contain TCE.

Currently,hundreds of solvent-based adhesives,solvent-based coatings,and degreasing solvents on the market contain TCE in their formulations.

II.The dangers of TCE

Despite its widespread industrial applications,the hazards of TCE to human health cannot be ignored.

TCE has been confirmed as a highly toxic chemical substance.

Prolonged or high-level exposure to TCE may lead to cancer,neurotoxicity,and reproductive toxicity.

The Fuzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention has warned that occupational workers exposed to TCE may experience symptoms such as skin itching,fever,and liver damage.)

Contents of EPAs proposed ban

For public health,the EPA has taken action by formulating relevant proposals under the Toxic Substances Control Act.

The proposal bans the use of TCE in most commercial production and processing,as well as in all consumer products.

The EPA encourages related industries to promptly seek and transition to alternatives.

For certain special uses,such as electric vehicle battery separators and some refrigerant production,the EPA provides a longer transition period.However,strict worker protection measures must be implemented to minimize risk exposure during the transition.

Health always comes first

It is strongly recommended that all workers and consumers exposed to TCE take necessary protective measures.

Meanwhile,all enterprises planning to export TCE-containing products to the U.S.are advised to closely monitor the proposals progress,verify their product status,and adjust trade strategies in a timely manner to avoid unnecessary economic losses.

Original proposal: