ATSDR - Toxic Substances - Tetrachloroethylene (PERC)
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Tetrachloroethylene (PERC)

CAS ID #: 127-18-4

Affected Organ Systems: Developmental (effects during periods when organs are developing) , Neurological (Nervous System), Respiratory (From the Nose to the Lungs)

Cancer Classification: NTP: Reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. EPA: Likely to be carcinogenic to humans. IARC: Probably carcinogenic to humans

Please contact NTP, IARC, or EPA’s IRIS Hotline with questions on cancer and cancer classification.

Chemical Classification: Volatile organic compounds

Summary: Tetrachloroethylene is a manufactured chemical that is widely used for dry cleaning of fabrics and for metal-degreasing. It is also used to make other chemicals and is used in some consumer products.

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    Summary about a hazardous substance taken from Chapter One of its respective ATSDR Toxicological Profile.

  • ATSDR Camp Lejeune Site Information

    U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina was established in 1942. In 1982, the Marine Corps discovered specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the drinking water provided by two of the eight water treatment plants on base.

    Water from the Tarawa Terrace Treatment Plant was contaminated by PCE (perchloroethylene or tetrachloroethylene).

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