1,1,1-trichloroethane (methyl chloroform) is a colorless liquid or vapour with a sharp sweet smell. It dissolves in water and other chemicals and easily evaporates into the air. TCE is non-flammable. Trichloroethane is used as a solvent and degreasing agent in industry. It is an ingredient in consumer products such as household cleaners, glues, and aerosol sprays. Methyl chloroform is also used as a chemical intermediate in the production of vinylidene chloride. It was formerly used as a food and grain fumigant. Excessive absorption of this substance through the lungs or gastrointestinal tract produces central nervous system (CNS) depression proportional to the amount absorbed. Mild liver and kidney dysfunction may occur transiently following recovery from CNS depression. The consumption of trichloroethane has been banned by the 1987 Montreal Protocol because of its ozone-depleting potential.