Bio-Solv Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How is Bio-Solv a renewable product?
A: Bio-Solv is formulated from chemicals derived from plants, mostly corn.

Q: Does Bio-Solv release VOCs into the atmosphere?
A: Yes, Bio-Solv and all solvents release VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) however all solvents are not the same concerning VOCs. VOCs are carbons like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Bio-Solv does not release Hazardous Air Pollutants or HAPs into the air. Everyone is concerned about their "Carbon Footprint" and the amount of carbon or VOCs released into our air because carbon emissions are linked to SMOG, air pollution and global warming. But not all VOCs are the same and not all solvents work in the same way. Two important points to consider when comparing VOC emissions of solvents:
     Evaporation Rate: Acetone evaporates 6 times (or more) faster than Bio-Solv because of it's high vapor pressure. Since a solvent needs to remain liquid in order to clean, Bio-Solv's low evaporation rate is the main reason it lasts 5 to 10 times longer than acetone. This means that acetone emits 5 to 10 times more VOCs (carbon) into the air than Bio-Solv for the same amount of cleaning (work).
     New Carbon added to the atmosphere: Since Bio-Solv is Carbon Neutral, its use does not add new carbon into the atmosphere. Acetone and other petroleum based solvents are made from oil and when used add new carbon to the atmosphere. Carbon (VOCs) released into the atmosphere from petroleum solvents are said to be Carbon Positive.

Q: Bio-Solv contains no HAPs, what is a HAP?
A: Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs) are chemicals which can cause adverse effects to human health or the environment. Congress has identified over 188 of these pollutants, including substances that cause cancer, neurological, respiratory, and reproductive effects. There is a list of HAPs on the EPA website.

Q: Why is something made from plants said to be Carbon Neutral?
A: Plants use a process called photosynthesis to convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into sugars needed to grow. When alcohols and chemicals produced by plants evaporate, they release the carbon previously absorbed by the plants used to make them back into the atmosphere.  There is theoretically no new carbon load added. This is different than using chemicals and fuels made from fossil fuels which adds new carbon to the atmosphere that was previously locked in "storage" within the earth.

Q: What is a Hazmat?
A: Hazardous Materials or Hazmats are materials considered dangerous and/or hazardous to people and the environment. Their use, shipping, handling, storage, spill remediation and disposal are strictly regulated and controlled to minimize risks and impact to the environment and people.

Q: Can I use Bio-Solv without gloves?
A: Bio-Solv is non-toxic but it is a powerful cleaner/solvent and will remove the oils from your skin and may cause irritation. As with any cleaner or solvent skin and eye protection are recommended. You should always use in a well ventilated area.

Q: Can Bio-Solv be recycled?
A: Yes, because of its low vapor pressure and evaporate it is easily recycled using mechanical filtering. Parts washing systems and paint gun cleaning systems that capture "dirty" solvent and filter it for reuse are readily available.

Q: Where can I download information about Bio-Solv?
A: Download a Product Sheet or MSDS Sheet here.