Abstract

Because of regulatory requirements and the inherent hazards of many solvents, there is widespread interest in finding less-toxic substitutes for traditional solvents. Candidate substitutes include d-limonene, N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) and dibasic esters (DBEs). Substitution strategies should however take into account technical, environmental, and health and safety considerations. Monographs designed for industrial hygienists, occupational physicians, and other health and safety and environmental specialists were therefore produced for each of these substitutes. Each monograph reviews the substitute’s physical and chemical properties, use, exposure levels, and health and environmental effects, as well as relevant regulatory and prevention considerations.