Jan192025

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Ban on Solvent Use

In line with the EPA’s recent ban on several hazardous solvents, an increasing number of businesses are transitioning to solvent-free processes. This recent legislation has empowered the EPA with greater authority to regulate chemicals that present ‘unreasonable risks’ to both human health and the environment.* For the measurement of oil in water, solvents pose a serious risk due to their flammability, adverse effects on human health due to exposure, and negative environmental impact during disposal.  In addition to actions taken by the U.S. EPA, other countries and large organizations are also moving towards banning the use of solvents.

OSS Solvent-Free Technology

OSS technology has significant benefits over traditional methods which rely on large volumes of solvents, significant sample size and lengthy, complex processes. The OSS ClearShotTM Method {ASTM D7575} for the measurement of Oil in Water eliminates all related health, environmental and safety issues associated with solvents.  

Used globally across a wide range of applications, this OSS technology removes the need to purchase, use, and dispose of hazardous solvent waste. Furthermore, while other test methods necessitate the use of a chemical fume hood, sensitive balances, and significant glassware, none of this equipment is required for the OSS ClearShot method. Additional environmental benefits can also be achieved with the use of reusable components in certain applications.

OSS Advantage: Ability to Measure Low Oil Concentrations

The OSS ClearShot method not only ensures operator safety, high testing speed, process simplicity, and accurate results, but also equips operators and users with the essential tools to measure low oil concentrations without the complications associated with traditional methods. It is ideally suited for low oil concentration systems, such as drinking water, wastewater, process water, residual oil systems and other process control applications.

For more information about measuring oil in water please contact Orono Spectral Solutions at www.ossmaine.com or call +1 (404) 403-8493.

*Source: “EPA Finalizes Rule Banning TCE, PCE Chemicals.”  MANUFACTURINGDIVE, https://www.manufacturingdive.com/news/epa-finalizes-tce-pce-chemical-rules-usmc-camp-lejeune/736939/ .