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About Drycleaner Chemicals

Perc (Perchloroethylene also known as Tetrachloroethylene) was introduced in the 1930s as an alternative solvent for drycleaning of garments initially in transfer machines (1st generation machines).Innovations in dry cleaning machines (5th generation) have caused Perc emissions and waste to decrease.

Owners and operators of drycleaning establishments have explored the use of solvent alternatives such as heated hydrocarbons (DF2000, EcoSolv, etc.), Methyl Siloxane (Green Earth), SK4 or Solvon K4 and Sensene (Alkopropanol formulation – Dow).

Additionally, some operations have expanded usage of wet cleaning processes when a garment manufacturer’s label does not require dry cleaning only. Wet cleaning does require operator training , but can be a successful alternative to dry cleaning processes that utilize Perc.

Jon Meijer, Director of Membership, Drycleaning & Laundry Institute (DLI) gave a presentation on February 18, 2020 to the National SBEAP (Small Business Environmental Assistance Program) regarding “Alternative Solvent Trends, Misconceptions and the State of the Industry”.

Tim Maxwell, President, GreenEarth Cleaning® gave a presentation to the National SBEAP on December 20, 2016 on the topic, “GreenEarth® as a Replacement Cleaning System in the Garment Care Industry and its Consequences” [PDF].

The standards of 40 CFR 63 Subpart M -

National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Perc Drycleaning Facilities, were created and are enforced by the U.S. EPA and Indiana to reduce emissions of Perc.

Subpart M was amended on July 27, 2006 and again on July 11, 2008 which included the requirements that dry cleaning operations that are co-residential (within the same building as occupied residences), cease the use of Perc after December 21, 2020.

EnviroForensics, IDLA (Indiana Drycleaning & Laundry Association) and IDEM partnered together to create a video to educate drycleaners on the amendments to Subpart M.  A presentation was delivered on May 14, 2008 by a member of CTAP [YouTube]. Today, IDLA is known as the MWDLA (Midwest Drycleaning & Laundry Association).

CTAP Staff can also conduct in-person site visits to help owners and operators understand how to comply with environmental regulations that impact them as well as considering pollution prevention measures.

Contact CTAP using the CTAP Partner Portal to request help.  It will require setting up a free account through Access Indiana.

Compliance Assistance Resources:

Perc Drycleaner Information

Separator Water

Hazardous Waste

OSHA

Professional Wet Cleaning Workgroup

Other Links and Information

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