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

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

VOC exempt solvents are used in applications where traditional solvents are used. These include Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants and Elastomers.

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

  1. ↑ 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.
  2. ↑ "Exempt Compounds". www.aqmd.gov. Archived from the original on 2021-02-08. Retrieved 2021-02-08.
  3. ↑ US EPA, OAR (2019-05-10). "Volatile Organic Compound Exemptions". US EPA. Archived from the original on 2021-02-08. Retrieved 2021-02-08.
  4. ↑ "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.
  5. ↑ "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.
  6. ↑ "Tert-Butyl Acetate: VOC-Exempt Solvent for Coatings" (PDF). LyondellBasell.
  7. ↑ "EPA VOC exempt".
  8. ↑ "VOC Content | Determining VOC Content | Article | CP Adhesives". www.cpadhesives.com. Archived from the original on 2021-02-08. Retrieved 2021-02-08.
  9. ↑ 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.
  10. ↑ "Formulating VOC-Compliant Coatings with Exempt Solvents". www.pcimag.com. Archived from the original on 2021-02-08. Retrieved 2021-02-08.
  11. ↑ "VOC Exempt Solvents". www.hydrite.com. Archived from the original on 2021-02-08. Retrieved 2021-02-08.
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