Used Solvent Testing and Reclamation. Volume 2. Vapor Degreasing and Precision Cleaning Solvents

摘要

Department of Defense (DOD) installations use large amounts of solvent each year in cleaning operations, which generates a huge volume of waste solvent. Much of this waste is or will be considered hazardous as stricter regulations are promulgated and enforced. Thus, proper handling and disposal practices are of increasing concern to DOD. Coupled with these environmental issues is the rising cost of both waste disposal and new solvents. These concerns have prompted DOD to seek safe, cost-effective methods of managing waste solvent. Solvents used at DOD installations can be classified into five groups based on chemical makeup and function: (1) vapor degreasers, (2) cold-dipping cleaners, (3) paint thinners, (4) paint strippers and carbon removers, and (5) precision cleaners. Most of these solvents are considered to provide one-time use; when they become contaminated, they are discarded. In these cases, disposal methods are mainly destructive, i.e., waste solvents are incinerated, evaporated, or dumped. Solvents, Trichloroethylene, Vythene, Tetrachloroethylene, Reclamation, Water contamination. (jes)