Non-Hazardous Alternatives for Toluene
Toluene is an aromatic hydrocarbon chemical that is colorless and not soluble in water. It is primarily used to dissolve adhesives and in clean-up applications. Toluene is also used as a finishing clean-up solution for industrial coating applications that include wood, containers, automotive products, machinery manufacturing, and more. Since toluene is often used as a highly dangerous recreational inhalant, there is increased legislation that is limiting its availability and increasing the need for toluene replacement alternatives.
Contact us for more information on a safe, Non-HAP solvent alternative to toluene, or call Mark Paul at 800-431-2072 Ext. 360 with any questions that you may have.
An Efficient, Safe & Highly Effective Alternative to Toluene
Polychem® 36 is a toluene substitute that does not create any type of hazardous waste since it can be used numerous times and is recyclable. Our toluene replacement products have been shown to last 7-10 times longer than comparable solvent products. Additionally, Polychem’s solvent replacement products provide a safe and environmentally friendly way to get the stripping and cleaning results that you are looking for. This non-HAP solvent does not provide any toxic fumes and is completely safe against the skin. Some of the additional applications where toluene can be replaced include:
- Degreaser
- Paint Remover
- Scrubber
- Purge material
- Cleaner
- Stripper
Adverse Health Effects of Toluene Cleaning Solvent
Toluene is a chemical solution that is used throughout numerous industries. Overexposure to toluene over an extended period can create adverse health effects that can last a lifetime. Additionally, high concentrations of toluene, usually from use in a confined space or unventilated area, can cause loss of consciousness, respiratory depression, and death. Long term and repeated workplace exposure to toluene affect the central nervous system. Some of the additional effects of toluene include the following:
- Eye and nose irritation
- Headache and dizziness
- Organ damage
- Nervous and respiratory system failure
- Nausea
- Skin irritation
Toluene substitutes provide a less dangerous alternative to toluene and other similar chemicals. Alternatives to toluene also provide a safe atmosphere for those that utilize these types of chemicals on a regular basis. Additionally, toluene replacements are safer for the environment since it maintains a slow evaporation rate, is biodegradable, recyclable, and contains no environmentally hazardous ingredients.
Proper Toluene Safety Considerations and Non-HAP Solvent Alternatives
Since toluene can be a highly hazardous chemical, certain protection methods should be established and maintained before handling or being exposed to toluene for a period of time. Some of the best methods for protecting against toluene exposure include:
- Always utilize respirators when providing spray applications of toluene.
- Ventilation is the most important protective measure to reduce the inhalation of toluene vapors where safer substitutes are not feasible.
- Spray application should be done in a spray booth with local exhaust ventilation and no ignition sources in the area.
- If the use of toluene or materials containing toluene causes wetting of the hands, impervious gloves should be used, neoprene or nitrile gloves are preferred.
- For cleaning and degreasing applications, substitute a water-based material that does not contain toluene.
- Substitute brush, roller, or flow application for spray application.
As an alternative to toluene, Polychem® 36 is a safe and highly responsive toluene substitute. This product provides all the benefits of toluene without all of the negative side effects. When working with this toluene replacement the health and environmental concerns associated with toluene can be eliminated.
Non-Hazardous & Eco-Friendly Toluene Replacement
Polychem’s toluene substitutes provide a safe and environmentally friendly option for a wide range of applications. Polychem® 36 provides a low VOC, bio-degradable, and recyclable option for completely replacing all toluene solvent applications. Polychem 36 also provides a longer life cycle and does not necessitate any type of HAZMAT removal fees when used and filtered properly. Additional eco-benefits of toluene replacement, include:
- High flashpoint
- 100% HAPs free
- Semi-aqueous
- Non-regulated DOT shipment
- Greatly reduces health/safety issues
- Safer work environment
- Environmentally friendly
- Biodegradable
- Made in the US
Contact Polychem for Advanced Toluene Replacement Today
Contact us to request a quote or call 800-431-2072 for more information regarding our safe and eco-friendly toluene replacement options for your application needs today.
