VOC exempt solvent
VOC exempt solvents are organic compounds that are exempt from restrictions placed on most volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the United States[1][2]. This class currently includes acetone, dimethyl carbonate, methyl acetate, parachlorobenzotrifluoride (Oxsol 100), tert-butyl acetate, and propylene carbonate.[3]
Solvent
In the US, dimethyl carbonate was exempted under the definition of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by the U.S. EPA in 2009.[4] 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. It also gained EPA VOC exempt status.
Safety
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
References
- ^ "Update: U.S. EPA Exempt Volatile Organic Compounds". American Coatings Association. 2018-01-30. Retrieved 2019-03-20.
- ^ "Acetone Regulations and Pollution Prevention: What You Should Know". web.epa.state.oh.us. Retrieved 2019-03-27.
- ^ "EPA VOC exempt".
- ^ http://www.epa.gov/ttn/oarpg/t1/fact_sheets/voc_exemp01011309.pdf. 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, 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.