M4.2 Blog Assignment: National Library ToxNet

Perchloroethylene (also tetrachloroethylene or PERC) is a liquid used in the process of dry-cleaning fabrics and degreasing metals. A short exposure of breathing high levels of PERC fumes can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract, among other symptoms. Long term exposure to PERC can cause cancer. Since this chemical is mainly used in such a commonly used cleaning method for our everyday clothes, exposure is widespread. People working and/or living close to dry cleaners have a higher exposure and thus a greater risk for long term exposure risks like cancer.

Comments

  1. Sandy TanSeptember 21, 2018 at 10:01 AM

    Hi Hugo,
    Great short report about PERC. It is terrifying to know that just a short exposure can cause so many symptoms. I wonder if there are any safer alternatives to PERC so the people in the dry-cleaning business do not have to suffer through those symptoms and increase their risk of cancer?

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    Replies
    1. Hugo FGSeptember 23, 2018 at 10:10 PM

      Hey Sandy, apparently an alternative to PERC is pressurized carbon dioxide, but it's not super common and most people don't know about it. When I googled alternative ways to dry clean, most articles gave tips to hand wash, spray, or rethink your wardrobe, and not really an alternative/safer chemical other than CO2.

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