TCE Ban: What It Means & How We Can Help

The regulatory phaseout of Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a pivotal moment for industries relying on this widely used solvent. With critical deadlines fast approaching, businesses must act swiftly to adopt safer, regulatory-compliant alternatives. At Diversified CPC, we are committed to supporting your transition with environmentally responsible solutions tailored to your needs.

What Is the TCE Ban and Why Is It Happening?

TCE is a versatile solvent historically used in:

• Industrial Cleaning & Degreasing: Essential for removing oils and contaminants
• Adhesives & Sealants: Commonly applied in aerospace and automotive manufacturing
• Paints & Coatings: Used for its solvent properties in various formulations

However, TCE has been linked to severe health risks, including cancer, liver and kidney damage, and reproductive harm. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued new regulations under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to phase out its use and protect public health and the environment.

Key Compliance Deadlines for the TCE Ban

To comply with the EPA’s phaseout plan, note these critical dates:

• March 21, 2025: Manufacturing and importation of TCE must stop
• June 16, 2025: Processing and distribution of TCE will no longer be allowed
• September 15, 2025: Industrial and commercial use of TCE will be fully prohibited

Failure to prepare for these deadlines could result in compliance violations and costly disruptions.

Industries Most Affected by the TCE Ban

Industries heavily reliant on TCE include:

• Aerospace: Adhesives and sealants for essential applications
• Automotive: Degreasing agents for manufacturing and maintenance
• Industrial Manufacturing: Cleaning solutions, lubricants, and coatings
• Medical Device Production: Specialized cleaning for precision components

How Can Businesses Prepare for the TCE Ban?

Businesses should identify TCE-based products in use, explore alternatives, test replacements, and transition before the regulatory deadlines.

How We Can Help Your Business Prepare for the TCE Ban

To help businesses transition seamlessly from TCE, Diversified CPC offers high-performance replacements designed to maintain efficiency and compliance. Our industry-leading expertise ensures you’ll find the right alternative tailored to your specific operational requirements.

What Are the Best Alternatives to TCE?

• t-DCE (Trans-1,2-Dichloroethylene): A powerful solvent with excellent degreasing capabilities, fast evaporation, and low toxicity—ideal for precision cleaning and vapor degreasing.
• HFE-347 (Hydrofluoroether-347): A non-flammable, VOC-exempt solvent with zero ozone depletion potential, offering superior material compatibility for industrial cleaning applications.
• Custom Blends: We provide tailored formulations to meet industry-specific needs, ensuring a smooth transition without compromising performance.

What Are the Penalties for Non-Compliance with the TCE Ban?

It is important to plan now. Waiting until the last moment to transition away from TCE could lead to:

• Non-compliance fines
• Disruptions in production
• Missed opportunities to optimize operations with better alternatives

By partnering with Diversified CPC now, you can ensure a seamless transition that safeguards both compliance and business continuity.

Ready to transition to a safer alternative? Contact Diversified CPC today for expert guidance on navigating the TCE ban successfully.

Learn More About the TCE Ban From the EPA

For additional details on TCE’s phaseout and compliance deadlines, view the EPA’s official fact sheet.