Switch from VOCs in auto repair reduces emissions

14 October 2008 12:48 [Source: ICIS news]

TOKYO (ICIS news)--Auto repair factories that switched to using DuPont’s water-based paints from traditional solvent-based coatings have eliminated 14m lb/year (6,350 tonnes/year) of air emissions, the US company claimed on Tuesday.

Solvent-based paints emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other substances as they dry, according to DuPont.

VOCs are one of many substances that contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone or smog, DuPont said.

DuPont estimated that 10m lb of VOC emissions could be cut by switching to waterborne coatings.

In addition, DuPont said that more than 4m lb of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) could be eliminated.

The US Congress has identified more than 188 HAPs which, under certain circumstances, may cause adverse health and environmental effects.

According to DuPont, Europe had the highest concentration of auto repair shops that had converted to water-based finishes.

The chemical maker said it expected the number of repair shops that make the switch to increase substantially in parts of California, Canada, South Korea, Hong Kong and elsewhere as environmental regulations take effect.

To discuss issues facing the chemical industry go to ICIS connect

By: Tomomi Yokomura
+65 6780 4359

< previous article(VIDEO - ICIS news Europe Lunchtime Bulletin 3 November 2009)

For the latest chemical news, data and analysis that directly impacts your business sign up for a free trial to ICIS news - the breaking online news service for the global chemical industry.

Get the facts and analysis behind the headlines from our market leading weekly magazine: sign up to a free trial to ICIS Chemical Business.

Printer Friendly