Degreasing, definition

Most compounds in which carbon is the key element are classified as organic. Common examples of organic compounds include degreasing solvents, lubricants, and heating and motor fuels. This subsection highlights some of the more common characteristics of organics as they relate to hazards. Various relevant classes of organics are presented in terms of chemical behavior and physical properties. In order to facilitate the discussion to follow, a few basic definitions will be presented first. 

In many operations, reclamation of the solvent is conducted easily by distilling the solvent within the degreaser s boiling sump and diverting the distillate to a separate tank or drums. Care should be taken, regardless of the amount of solvent contamination, to keep the solvent level at 1 in. (3.8 cm) above the uppermost heating elements. This mode of solvent recovery has definite limitations the degreaser must be taken out of service for a number of hours, and the bottoms, after concentration, often contain over 50% solvent. 

CAS 140-25-0 EINECS/ELINCS 204-405-8 Synonyms Benzyl dodecanoate Dodecanoic acid benzyl ester Dodecanoic acid, phenylmethyl ester Laurie acid, benzyl ester Phenylmethyl dodecanoate Definition Ester of lauric acid and benzyl alcohol Empirical C19H30O2 Properties M.w. 290.49 Toxicology Skin irritant TSCA listed Hazardous Decomp. Prods. Heated to decomp., emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes Uses Emollient, lubricant in cosmetics, hair and skin care solvent, degreaser in sunscreens... 

Definition Polymer of ethylene oxide Formula H(OCH2CH2)nOH, avg. n = 4000 Properties Nonionic Uses Wetting agent in paper pulping emulsifier for metal degreasing bottle cleaner defoamer binder for ceramics, tobacco in... 

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