VOC exempt solvents are organic compounds that are exempt from restrictions placed on most volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the United States.[1][2][3][4][5] This class of solvent currently includes acetone, dimethyl carbonate, methyl acetate, parachlorobenzotrifluoride (Oxsol 100), tert-Butyl acetate,[6] and propylene carbonate.[7] The definition is often that they do not contribute to ozone or ozone depletion.[8]
Solvent[edit]
In the US, dimethyl carbonate was exempted under the definition of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by the U.S. EPA in 2009.[9] Due to its classification as VOC exempt, dimethyl carbonate has grown in popularity and applications as a replacement for methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) and other solvents. tert-Butyl acetate is used as a solvent in the production of lacquers, enamels, inks, adhesives, thinners and industrial cleaners.[10][11] It also gained EPA VOC exempt status.
Uses[edit]
VOC exempt solvents are used in applications where traditional solvents are used. These include Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants and Elastomers.
Safety[edit]
VOC exempt status does not mean that the solvent is non-flammable and thus safety must be carefully considered. Acetone for example has an extremely low flash point and care is needed in handling.
See also[edit]
References[edit]
- ^ Zysman, Bernard; Skelly, P. Daniel (2000-02-01). "Why some solvents are given VOC exempt status by the EPA and what the future holds". Metal Finishing. 98 (2): 84–88. doi:10.1016/S0026-0576(00)81407-5. ISSN 0026-0576. Archived from the original on 2021-02-08. Retrieved 2021-02-08.
- ^ "Exempt Compounds". www.aqmd.gov. Archived from the original on 2021-02-08. Retrieved 2021-02-08.
- ^ US EPA, OAR (2019-05-10). "Volatile Organic Compound Exemptions". US EPA. Archived from the original on 2021-02-08. Retrieved 2021-02-08.
- ^ "Update: U.S. EPA Exempt Volatile Organic Compounds". American Coatings Association. 2018-01-30. Archived from the original on 2021-02-08. Retrieved 2019-03-20.
- ^ "Acetone Regulations and Pollution Prevention: What You Should Know". web.epa.state.oh.us. Archived from the original on 2019-04-09. Retrieved 2019-03-27.
- ^ "Tert-Butyl Acetate: VOC-Exempt Solvent for Coatings" (PDF). LyondellBasell.
- ^ "EPA VOC exempt".
- ^ "VOC Content | Determining VOC Content | Article | CP Adhesives". www.cpadhesives.com. Archived from the original on 2021-02-08. Retrieved 2021-02-08.
- ^ http://www.epa.gov/ttn/oarpg/t1/fact_sheets/voc_exemp01011309.pdf Archived 2021-02-08 at the Wayback Machine. Information about the EPA's action on exempting dimethyl carbonate as a VOC and petitioner's background information, public comments and other references are available electronically at http://www.regulations.gov Archived 2012-09-25 at the Wayback Machine, EPA’s electronic public docket and comment system. The docket number for this action is Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2006-0948. See http://www.epa.gov/ttn/oarpg/t1pfpr.html and scroll down to Jan 13, 2009 pdf for the rule.
- ^ "Formulating VOC-Compliant Coatings with Exempt Solvents". www.pcimag.com. Archived from the original on 2021-02-08. Retrieved 2021-02-08.
- ^ "VOC Exempt Solvents". www.hydrite.com. Archived from the original on 2021-02-08. Retrieved 2021-02-08.