Trichloroethylene is an industrial solvent used in metal degreasing and dry cleaning. It enters water through industrial discharge and can cause liver and kidney damage.

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a volatile organic compound widely used in industry since the 1940s. It primarily enters water systems through improper disposal and leaks from industrial sites. The EPA measures TCE levels in parts per billion (ppb) and has set strict regulations due to its potential health risks. Groundwater contamination is a significant concern, leading to extensive cleanup efforts at many sites across the U.S. TCE's widespread use and persistence in the environment make it a common focus of water quality monitoring programs.