Organic Acids
REACH
Trichloroacetic acid
CAS Number
76-03-9
EC Number
200-927-2
Abbreviation
TCA
What is Trichloroacetic acid?
Trichloroacetic acid (CAS 76-03-9), or TCA, is a strong chlorinated organic acid.
Where is Trichloroacetic acid used?
- Pharmaceutical and laboratory: protein precipitant from biological samples for analysis
- Analytical and quality control: standard reagent
- Cosmetic: chemical peel formulations removing damaged or keratinized skin layers at defined concentrations
- Textile and leather: treatment agent modifying fiber surfaces for dyeing or finishing
- Industrial formulations: biocide and preservation agent
- It enables controlled tissue destruction, protein removal, and surface treatment in manufacturing workflows.
Commercial specifications
- Technical-grade material for industrial processing where pharmacopeial compliance is not required
Other Names (Synonyms)
trichloroethanoic acid|trichloracetic acid|TCA|Aceto-caustin|Acetic acid, trichloro-|Konesta|2,2,2-trichloroacetic acid|Acetic acid, 2,2,2-trichloro-
What are the physical properties of Trichloroacetic acid?
Melting Point 57.5 °C
Boiling Point 195.5 °C
Density 1.6126 g/cm³ @ Temp: 64 °C
Flash Point 196°C
Appearance Trichloroacetic acid is a colorless crystalline solid which is used in liquid solutions.
Color White
Odor sharp, pungent odor
Form Solid
Water Solubility 120 g/100 mL (20 ºC)
Vapor Pressure 1 mm Hg ( 51 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.62(lit.)
pH <1.0 (25℃, 0.5M in H2O)
Log P 1.330
How is Trichloroacetic acid classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS05· Corrosive GHS09· Environmental Hazard GHS08· Health Hazard GHS07· Irritant
Hazard Statements
H303 May be harmful if swallowed
H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
H318 Causes serious eye damage
H336 May cause drowsiness or dizziness
Precautionary Statements
P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Trichloroacetic acid?
HS Code 29154000
UN Number 1839
ADR Class 8
Packing Group II
Storage Class 8B - Non-combustible corrosive hazardous materials
WGK (Germany) 2