Trichloroethylene (TCE) in Drinking Water

🩨 Health Effects

TCE is a likely human carcinogen associated with kidney cancer, liver cancer, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It can also cause liver, kidney, and nervous system damage. TCE is one of the most common groundwater contaminants at Superfund sites.

📍 Sources in Water

TCE was widely used as a metal degreaser in manufacturing and by the military. Commonly found at former military bases, manufacturing facilities, and dry cleaning sites. It readily leaches from contaminated soil into groundwater.

✅ What To Do

Activated carbon filters and air stripping effectively remove TCE. Reverse osmosis also works. Homes near contaminated industrial sites or military bases may be at heightened risk. Contact your utility if you suspect TCE contamination.

📜 Regulation History

The EPA set the TCE MCL at 0.005 mg/L (5 ppb) in 1987 under the Phase I VOC rule. In 2011, the EPA upgraded TCE classification to "carcinogenic to humans." TCE is found at over 1,000 Superfund sites. The WHO guideline is 0.02 mg/L, less strict than the US standard.

🔬 How To Test Your Water

Certified lab tests for TCE cost $50-$100 using EPA Method 524.2 (purge-and-trap GC/MS). Home test kits for TCE are not available. If you live near a former military base, industrial facility, or dry cleaner, professional lab testing is strongly recommended.

💧 Which Filters Remove Trichloroethylene (TCE)?

Granular activated carbon (GAC) filters are very effective at removing TCE (NSF/ANSI 53 certified for VOC reduction). Air stripping is used at the municipal level. Reverse osmosis also works. Packed tower aeration is the most common municipal treatment technology for TCE.

🔗 Related Contaminants