Emissions from solvent spill

Stoddard solvent may be released to the atmosphere in the exhaust emissions of dry cleaning plants. Emissions from one plant were determined to be 2,100 ppm (measured as propane) (EPA 1980). Fugitive emissions from other industrial or domestic uses (such as incompletely sealed or punctured barrels) may contribute to levels of Stoddard solvent in the environment, including contributions to general levels of volatile organic carbon. In addition, surface water contamination may occur as a result of direct spills of Stoddard solvent onto surface waters, runoff from spills to soil with subsequent transmission to nearby water sources, or from improper disposal, such as pouring Stoddard solvent down drains. Accidental spills of Stoddard solvent to various media are reported to the Emergency Response Notification System (ERNS) maintained by EPA. Total spill data for Stoddard solvent are ... 

Figure 2.3.10 shows that the vapor density has linear eorrelation with moleeular mass and that for both aleohols and ketones (as well as the other solvents) the relationship is similar. The data also show that solvent vapor densities are higher than air density. This makes ventilation a key faetor in the removal of these vapors in the ease of spill or emissions from equipment. Otherwise, the heavier than air vapors will flow along floors and depressions filling pits and sub floor rooms and leading to toxie exposure and/or risk of ignition and subsequent explosions. 

When the effects of time variations in release rates are included, pulse (or instantaneous) and continuous (plume) emissions are the two most common time-variant inputs in transport models. The classic example of a pulse release is a hazardous waste spill. The steady release of contaminants into groundwater from a subsurface contaminant and the continuous release of volatile solvents from an air-stripping tower are examples of plume emissions. 

Store used wipes in closed containers that are labeled Excluded Solvent-Contaminated Wipes. EPA says that managing the wipes in nonleaking, closed containers ensures that the solvents are unlikely to be released into the environment. Further, closed and labeled containers serve to minimize emissions, prevent spills, and reduce the risk of fires, for example, by keeping the wipes away from potentially incompatible wastes or ignition sources. 

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