Solvents are hiding everywhere. The chemical substances are not without problems and can have a negative impact on both the environment and people.
solvent are (mostly liquid) substances with the help of which other substances can be dissolved or diluted. There is no chemical reaction – this means that the solutes are not chemically changed by the solvent.
Colloquially, the term solvent has also become established for solvents. Examples of solvents include acetone, Chloroform, ethanol, propanol and carbon disulfide.
Where are solvents found?
Solvents are widespread and can be found in a wide variety of products. The following list is by no means exhaustive, but counts the most important ones Examples on:
- Varnishes, paints and paint thinners
- Glue
- Furniture polishes
- fuel
- plastic
- cleaning supplies
- Floor coverings, sealants, insulation materials
- wallpaper
- Degreaser
- nail polish remover
Detect solvents: If a product contains solvents, this should be noted on the label. Then you will also find certain hazard symbols such as “(highly / easily) flammable”, “irritant” and “dangerous” on the label. You can see what this can look like for acetone on the website of etikettenwissen.de.
Are solvents harmful?
(Photo: CC0 / Pixabay / JillWellington)
The fact that solvents are used so often is problematic because they can be harmful to both humans and the environment. The individual solvents are differently dangerous. If solvents are disposed of incorrectly, for example, they often end up in the Groundwater and pollute it.
In humans, solvents in too high concentrations can cause various symptoms. These include, for example:
- dry skin and brittle fingernails (e.g. through solvents in the nail polish remover)
- Irritation of the mucous membranes and respiratory tract
- Tears of eyes
- Malaise and dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
In a scientific study researchers also found that solvents have a negative long-term effect on memory and brain performance.
Dispose of solvent properly
(Photo: CC0 / Pixabay / cocoparisienne)
If you dispose of solvents incorrectly, even in small quantities, you risk major damage to the environment. Under no circumstances should you dispose of products that contain solvents in normal household waste or the drain.
Such substances either belong in the pollutant or Hazardous waste. You can find out how and where you can get rid of solvent-based products on your city’s website. Some DIY stores also offer a return service for remnants of paints and varnishes, for example.
Solvents: what are the alternatives?
In many products, solvents are essential and cannot simply be replaced by another substance or omitted. However, there are now good alternatives: “Green” solvents, for example, are made up of biomaterials and are renewable. Some products are already solvent-free today. For example, there is already a large selection of solvent-free, water-based paints and varnishes. You can also get household products such as glue and nail polish remover without solvents such as acetone.
You can get tips on environmentally friendly paints, varnishes and carpets here: Renovate: environmentally friendly paints, varnishes and carpets. In our overview you will also find important seals that you should pay attention to when buying.
Read more on Techzle.com:
- Plasticizers in nail polish can make you sterile and fat
- Dispose of nail polish: this is how it works
- Make glue yourself: Non-toxic craft glue for children