Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive

by Ron Joseph

September, 2006

Exempt Solvents

Q: I am looking for an exempt solvent that has a flash point of over 74° F. Is there a solvent that meets that criteria? I need the coating to be a  DOT class II for shipping purposes. I thank you in advance for your help.

A: The exempts solvents from which you can choose are acetone, methyl acetate, para-chlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF), methyl siloxanes. It is possible that t-butylacetate has been added to the list, although I don't see it on the EPA website. Each has its own unique properties and might or might not perform well in a coating. I will leave it to you to look up the flash point and determine if any of these is applicable to your application.  

If you go to http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/40cfr51_03.html and look at Section 51.100 (s) you will see a full list of the exempt solvents. This list was last updated in 2003.

Best wishes,

Ron Joseph