Sources/Uses
Trichloroethylene as a vapor degreaser has been replaced by 1,1,1-trichloroethane and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). CFCs are being phased out because of their ozone-depleting properties. Perchloroethylene has replaced mineral spirits and carbon tetrachloride in dry cleaning facilities. Methylene chloride is used for paint stripping and extraction, chloroform for spot cleaning and extraction, and carbon tetrachloride for organic synthesis. [LaDou, p. 552] In a 1996 survey, chlorinated solvents were commonly used. By 2004, use was substantially reduced and none of them were in the top five degreasing solvents. [Reference #1]