Environmental Toxins: DCE in Water Could Be Consequence of TCE Breakdown

Chemical contamination found in wells along Ridge Pike, Pennsylvania may have been created in the environment by the breakdown TCE, a chemical found in the air. TCE has been found in above-average levels in the air and it is believed that DCE, a water pollutant, can be formed when TCE breaks down. DCE is a chemical used to make packaging materials and flexible films, such as Saran Wrap, and flame retardant coating for fiber and carpet backing.

DCE in wells could be a breakdown of TCE found in area’s air

Both TCE and DCE can enter the body through food, water, or skin contamination. While there is not yet enough information about the health effects of breathing DCE for the Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry to accurately evaluate the risk, at high levels DCE can cause fainting and death. DCE currently is classified as a "possible human carcinogen."