Case story database

Search for Successfully Implemented Alternatives

You can use the free text search function to find information in the case story database. Most suitable are: substance name and other substance identifier (EC- and CAS-number). You can refine your search after first entry for sector-, function- and process-categories. The case studies are meant to serve as source of inspiration and ideas for substitution. The alternatives are constantly being developed further. We therefore recommend that you to check in each individual case whether an alternative is suitable for your applications and purposes. If you are aware of any other relevant information that is not mentioned in the current case story, please contact SUBSPORTplus.

In order to utilize information in the best way, please take note of the SUBSPORTplus methodology on case stories!

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Cleaning of wafer frames with brushing machines using tap water

Manufacturer of electronic components cleaned wafer frames made of fibre glass plastic using a continuous flow brushing machine with tap water. Formerly, components were cleaned manually with solvents.

Implementation of a health and safety management system for chemical products

The Spanish branch of the company BSH implemented a health and safety management system for chemical products in the manufacture of electric home appliances to avoid the use of toxic chemicals in the manufacturing and cleaning process. The inclusion of this methodology in the process of recognition of chemical product allowed the substitution of some highly hazardous chemicals. For example, methanol for glass cleaning was substituted by a conventional glass cleaner.

Out phasing of dimethyl formamide (DMF) and cobalt dichloride in piping production.

By introduction of new production equipment, the pipe producing company Logstor, have been able to phase out dimethylformamide (DMF) as a cleaning solvent. Instead most cleaning of mixing heads and sprayer heads is done mechanically, and in rare cases a Dowanol (1-methoxypropan-2-ol) bath is used. Cobalt dichloride containing silica gel desiccant have been substituted with a cobalt free desiccant, which is performing even better than the old one.

Ultra sound system as alternative to sodium hypochlorite for bacteria control in the cooling towers of a university

A university decided to switch to ultrasounds for controlling bacteria in its water cooling towers. The system proved effective and helped to cut costs with the previously used chemical biocide (sodium hypochlorite) but also with substances needed to counterbalance the corrosiveness of the biocide and its alkalinity.

Water based cleaning machine for metal parts

A chemical-free device that uses ultra sounds and water can replace hazardous cleaning agents like organic solvents or strong alkali solutions.

Substitution of a hydrocarbon-based anti-adherent used in industrial welding

A highly flammable anti-adherent compound containing toxic solvents used in welding was substituted by a water-based product. The eliminated product contained dichloromethane which posed serious health hazards since it is a suspected carcinogen and endocrine disruptor. The alternative product contains synthetic oils and water-based anti-corrosion additives.

Substitution of naphtha and hexamethylene diisocyanate in polyurethane-based paints

This experience involved the substitution of solvents in paints used in a company specialised in the manufacture of car wash tunnel systems. Several workers were exposed to naphtha light aromatic fraction (carcinogenic and mutagen) and to hexamethylene diisocyanate (sensitiser and endocrine disruptor). Trade union intervention managed to achieve the substitution of these paints by Tribo system electrostatic powder coatings that do not require solvents.

SUBSPORTplus Specific Substances Alternatives Assessment – Perchloroethylene

Perchloroethylene is one of the specific substances or substance groups for which a detailed alternatives assessment has been performed by SUBSPORTplus according to a common methodology. In this document the hazard profile and identified uses of perchloroethylene can be found as well as the identification, assessment and comparison of alternatives for its use for dry cleaning.

SUBSPORTplus Specific Substances Alternatives Assessment – Lead and its inorganic compounds

Lead and its inorganic compounds are one of the specific substances or substance groups for which a detailed alternatives assessment has been performed by SUBSPORTplus according to a common methodology. In this document the hazard profile and identified uses of lead and its inorganic compounds can be found as well as the identification, assessment and comparison of alternatives for three of its uses.

Substitution of boric acid in metal processing

Mixtures containing boric acid are widely used in metal processing. Boric acid is a substance of very high concern: it is toxic to reproduction and, therefore, included on the REACH candidate list for authorisation, as well as on the SIN list (https://sinsearch.chemsec.org/chemical/10043-35-3).
The company is working mainly with the refurbishment of various car parts, and aimed to avoid this hazardous substance in their daily work. As a result of changing the polishing technologies, the work environment is safer because emulsions, including ones containing boric acid, does not have to be used at all to repair car clutch parts.

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