Para-Chlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF)
- Aromatic solvents
- CAS 98-56-6
- IUPAC: 1-Chloro-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzene
EPA-exempt VOC (not photochemically reactive), making it attractive for CARB-compliant formulations. However, PCBTF is a suspected reproductive toxicant (animal studies) and is aquatically toxic with low LC50 values. Inhalation of vapors should be avoided — use with ventilation. Not Prop 65 listed but flagged in EPA Safer Choice as a chemical of concern.
Para-chlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF) is an aromatic solvent used in paints, coatings, and car care products primarily because it is EPA-exempt from VOC regulations (it reacts slowly in the atmosphere and doesn't contribute to smog). This makes it popular in CARB-compliant formulations.
Despite its VOC-exempt status, PCBTF is not without hazard: it has documented aquatic toxicity and limited biodegradability, and animal studies have raised reproductive concerns. Its use in car care products is typically at low concentrations in products like sealants and coatings where a high-solvency, low-evaporation carrier is needed.
The environmental profile is poor relative to more benign solvents — persistent, not biodegradable, and aquatically toxic.
Health & environment profile
- VOC
- no
- Prop 65 listed
- no
- Asthmagen
- no
- EPA Safer Choice
- no
- Aquatic toxicity
- yes
- Biodegradable
- no
- Bioaccumulative
- no
- Persistent
- yes
- Ozone depleting
- no
- Microplastic
- no
- PFAS
- no
- Env. score
- 2/5
1 product contain this
Health summaries are editorial — we synthesize from SDSs, peer-reviewed sources, and regulatory listings. Not medical advice.