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Sources of PCE in Indoor Air

Tetrachloroethylene, also referred to as tetrachloroethene, PCE or PERC, is a colorless liquid used as a solvent for organic materials. Its most common use is in dry cleaning, but it also has applications as a degreaser and in some household products such as spot remover and paint strippers. PCE functions as a central nervous depressant, and short-term exposure can cause dizziness, headache, drowsiness and loss of balance. Long-term exposure has been linked to kidney and liver damage and cancer and may increase the risk of Parkinson's disease.

  1. Dry-Cleaning

    • One of the major sources of PCE contamination of indoor air is its use as a cleaner in dry cleaning. This is mostly a concern for people working as dry cleaners, but it is possible for small amounts of the chemical to be released from dry-cleaned clothes. According to the Wall Street Journal, the Environmental Protection Agency is overseeing a phase-out of the use of PCE at dry cleaners located in residential buildings, and California is requiring a phase-out of the use of the chemical in dry cleaning altogether. Eco-friendly dry cleaners use wet cleaning methods or substitute other solvents for PCE.

    Contaminated Water

    • Groundwater near dry cleaners or other industrial users of PCE may become contaminated if the chemical is improperly disposed of or spilled accidentally. Aside from dry cleaning, PCE is most commonly used as a de-greasing agent in metalworking and automotive industries. PCE can evaporate from contaminated water, especially during cooking and cleaning.

    Soil Contamination

    • In places where PCE has been spilled or improperly disposed of, soil can become contaminated. Structures built on contaminated soil may have higher indoor levels of PCE due to volatilization of the chemical from the soil into the air.

    Household Products

    • Certain household products, mainly spot removers and paint removers, contain PCE. Look at the product's label for more information. Using PCE-containing products in a poorly ventilated area can lead to increased concentrations in indoor air.

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