Just something I found--The Boeing Aerospace Corporation used a significant amount of MEK as a surface preparation solvent for airplane parts, prior to painting and sealant application. They were seeking to eliminate this solvent, a source of VOC and HAP emissions. The application was very sensitive: cleaning requirements are stringent because of the need for very high quality binding of sealants on aircraft. The criteria this new cleaning technology had to meet included: compatibility with the sensitivity of metal substrates, sealants and paints used in aircraft; the ability to clean the same variety of contaminants as MEK; lower toxicity than MEK, so as to not trade a regulatory burden for health and safety hazards; reasonable economic competitiveness; and cleaning performance at least equal to MEK.
[5].
Biochemical Solvents for Pollution Prevention
The uses of solvents fall into three general categories. The first use is in products like perfumes, paints, and aerosols, which require a liquid medium that will evaporate after application. The second use is in chemical processing, where solvents are used in diverse procedures such as extraction, distillation, and polymerization. Finally, solvents are commonly used for cleaning. The majority of solvents for industrial uses are derived from petroleum. Frequently, the use of solvents results in air emissions that can contribute to ozone depletion, ground level smog formation, and water pollution. Many solvents are highly toxic, and represent a hazard to those who work with them. As a result, industries need more benign solvents. Biochemical solvents, which have low toxicity and biodegrade rapidly, are an alternative to petrochemical solvents
Biochemical Cleaning Solvents
Cleaning is an essential part of manufacturing. Tools and equipment are cleaned to maintain their condition and keep them functioning properly. Manufactured goods must be cleaned to insure their proper operation, prior to painting and bonding, and to improve visual appearance. But there is an environmental price for cleaning practices. The petrochemical solvents used in many cleaning operations have a negative impact on the environment and worker health and safety. Petrochemical solvents are effective cleaners, and their use has become ingrained in industry practices. As a result, members of industry are often reluctant to make changes in cleaning practices. Consequently, the main driving forces behind transitions are environmental |
