Trichloroacetic acid

CAS: 76-03-9

Overview

Trichloroacetic acid ( CAS 76-03-9 ), commonly abbreviated as TCA, is a strong chlorinated organic acid used across pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial processing applications. It functions primarily as a protein precipitant and chemical denaturant.

This chemical enables controlled tissue destruction, protein removal, and surface treatment in manufacturing workflows. In pharmaceutical and laboratory settings, TCA is used to precipitate proteins from biological samples for analysis.

It serves as a standard reagent in analytical and quality control procedures. The cosmetic industry applies it in controlled chemical peel formulations, where it removes damaged or keratinized skin layers at defined concentrations.

Textile and leather processors use TCA as a chemical treatment agent to modify fiber surfaces and support dyeing or finishing operations. It also functions as a biocide and preservation agent in industrial formulations.

This versatile acid is essential where microbial control is required. Trichloroacetic acid is supplied as a crystalline solid or in aqueous solution at various concentrations, with high-concentration solutions common for industrial use.

Established grades include pharmaceutical-grade and reagent-grade material meeting USP and BP specifications. Technical-grade material is available for industrial processing applications where pharmacopeial compliance is not required.

Physical Properties

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

Safety & Handling

Danger GHS05 GHS09 GHS08 GHS07 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 H341 Suspected of causing genetic defects H351 Suspected of causing cancer H361 Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child H371 May cause damage to organs H400 Very toxic to aquatic life H410 Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects 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. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P318 IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P363 Wash contaminated clothing before reuse. P391 Collect spillage. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P308+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P301+P330+P331 Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. P302+P361+P354 IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code	29154000
UN Number	1839
ADR Class	8
Packing Group	II
Storage Class	8B - Non-combustible corrosive hazardous materials
WGK (Germany)	2

Other Names

Industries

Personal Care & Cosmetics Textile, Leather & Paper Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare