Methylene Chloride Replacement
Methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane, is an organic liquid chemical solvent that is commonly used in paint strippers and for metal cleaning, degreasing and other applications. While effective at stripping paint, this chemical solvent is also extremely dangerous and classified as a neurotoxin and human carcinogen.
Improve Workplace Safety with Paint Remover Alternatives
Methylene chloride paint strippers are so hazardous that a ban was once proposed on their use, and retailers were urged by some to remove products containing dichloromethane from their shelves. It has an odor threshold that is 10 times higher than the OSHA PEL, meaning odor alone is not an effective warning property for the presence of methylene chloride in the air. Since inhalation is a common route of exposure, this factor prevents a serious and potentially deadly workplace hazard.
Products like AcraStrip provide a safer alternative to methylene chloride paint removers and are proven to be effective at stripping paint and cured or uncured resins from brushes, rollers and components. They also have a low evaporation rate, last 7-10 times longer than other solvents and are recyclable, making a cost-effective alternative to standard paint removers.
Benefits of AcraStrip solvent and replacement paint remover include:
- Quickly and effectively cleans, flushes and strips
- No harmful vapors or air pollutants
- Semi-aqueous
- HAP free
- Non-flammable and non-combustible
- Safe to use without gloves or masks
- Usable in ambient temperatures up to 165°F
- Biodegradable
- Made in the US
Methylene Chloride Paint Strippers Pose Serious Health Risks
Dichloromethane is easily absorbed into the system after inhalation or ingestion and since its vapors are heavier than air, can cause asphyxiation if an area is not properly ventilated. Additional health risks associated with the use of methylene chloride include:
- Central nervous system damage and brain damage after prolonged exposure
- Coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath
- Headache, mental confusion, nausea, and dizziness in high concentrations
- Redness, irritation, and chemical burns resulting from skin contact
- Severe irritation or chemical burns caused by eye exposure
Since dichloromethane is highly volatile, extreme precautions need to be made in the event of a spill including clearing the area of people to prevent exposure. Due to its flammability, methylene chloride must also be kept from source of heat and ignition, including light and metal. There are, however, paint stripper alternatives that as equally as effective and deliver the results you need.
Contact Us for Effective Paint Stripper Alternatives
Choosing AcraStrip as an alternative to methylene chloride paint removers is a better choice for your workplace and the environment. Because they are non-hazardous, our solvents ship without the hazmat shipping fees or special requirements. Contact us today or call 800-431-2072 to discuss which solvent is the best choice for your paint removal application.
