TRICHLOROETHANE- ▸ Metal cleaning: Solvent and degreasing agent for metal parts
- ▸ Solvent: Solvent for resins, oils, waxes, tar, and adhesives
- ▸ Chemical intermediate: Feedstock in chlorinated-chemical production
A grade-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS) — with the complete hazard classification, handling precautions, and transport information — is supplied with every shipment and available on request. Confirm all safety and regulatory details against the SDS for your specific grade.
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Transport classification per the UN Model Regulations / 49 CFR 172.101 Hazardous Materials Table. Confirm against the grade-specific SDS (Section 14) before shipping.
1,1,1-Trichloroethane (CAS 71-55-6, C2H3Cl3), also called methyl chloroform, is a chlorinated solvent historically used for metal degreasing and cleaning, as a solvent for resins, oils, waxes, and adhesives, and as a chemical intermediate. It is an ozone-depleting substance whose production has been phased out under the Montreal Protocol.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is trichloroethane used for?
1,1,1-Trichloroethane (TCA, CAS 71-55-6) was used historically as a chlorinated solvent for metal degreasing and parts cleaning, as a solvent for resins, oils, waxes, tar, and adhesives, and as a chemical intermediate in chlorinated-chemical production.
Why was trichloroethane discontinued?
1,1,1-Trichloroethane is an ozone-depleting substance, and its production was phased out under the Montreal Protocol. This regulatory phase-out, not any change in solvent performance, is why it was discontinued for general use.
What is the difference between trichloroethane and trichloroethylene?
They are distinct chemicals: 1,1,1-trichloroethane (C2H3Cl3, CAS 71-55-6, also called methyl chloroform) is a saturated chlorinated ethane, while trichloroethylene (C2HCl3) is an unsaturated chlorinated ethene. They differ in structure, CAS number, and solvent behavior despite similar names.
What is the common name and formula of trichloroethane?
1,1,1-Trichloroethane is also called methyl chloroform. Its molecular formula is C2H3Cl3 and its CAS number is 71-55-6, classified under HS code 2903.19 (saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons).
How is trichloroethane shipped and classified for transport?
1,1,1-Trichloroethane ships under UN 2831. RawSource provides the current SDS and CoA with each order; consult those documents and applicable DOT/IMDG requirements for packaging, labeling, and handling. Contact us for a bulk quote and documentation.