Looking for Safer Solvents?

A tool manufacturing company reduced its cleaning costs by 33 percent, or about $5,800 per year. They did this by using a terpene solvent with surfactants, rather than trichloroethylene, as their degreasing solvent, followed by a hot water rinse and drying.

Another company saved $45,000 annually by eliminating methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) and switching to EP-921 paint gun cleaner.

Ecology has experienced toxics reduction specialists who can advise you on solvent substitution techniques and issues. They can do this by a phone call or educational (non-enforcement) visits to your worksite. They offer free technical assistance on solvent substitution, economic concerns, pollution prevention opportunities, and suppliers. Call your nearest regional office to reach a toxics reduction specialist.

Solvent substitution is a fast-changing field. Here are some links to useful information:

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Questions? Need help? Call Cathy Bouge at (360) 407-6745 or e-mail her at cbou461@ecy.wa.gov.