Detailing Chemicals
Identification
One
of the most confusing things about this business is the chemicals used and the
chemistry behind them. Certain product
or combination of products can have a negative impact and to the newcomer in
the industry, or your everyday enthusiast, understanding the chemical
interactions could become challenging, if not darn right confusing. As a
Chemical Engineer I have a gained a lot of knowledge on chemicals but I can't
imagine being relatively new to the industry and coming into detailing today.
Product
vendors are in business to sell products and sometimes rename the same product
to do other things i.e. a swirl removing polish vs. a finishing polish (they
both do the same job) However with chemicals it’s not quite that simple
Testing the pH
The term pH is a measurement
of the relationship between hydrogen ions and hydroxyl ions. When you have more hydrogen ions than
hydroxyl ions, you have an acid.
Likewise, if you have more hydroxyl ions than hydrogen ions you have a
base (alkali).
The pH scale is a
measure of the acidity or basicity (Alkali) of a solution. It is approximates
but is not equal to p [H], the negative logarithm base 10) Base (Acid) 1-7,
Alkaline 7- 14; the pH of a solution is temperature-dependent.
Unfortunately
the pH scale is logarithmic; for every integer that the scale decreases the
material is 10 times more acidic. Those of us in earthquake country know all
too well the consequences of a change of from 6 to 7 on the logarithmic,
Richter scale. The difference in the pH scale is just as dramatic and therefore
just as misleading.
A
substance that is neither acidic nor basic is neutral; pure water has a neutral
pH of 7.0 each whole pH value below 7 is ten times more acidic than the next
higher value. For example, a pH of 4 is ten times more acidic than a pH of 5
and 100 times (10 times 10) more acidic than a pH of 6. The same holds true for
pH values above 7, each of which is ten times more alkaline than the next lower
whole value. For example, a pH of 10 is ten times more alkaline than a pH of
9.0
Dilution of
Cleaning Chemicals
a) Under-dilution – a chemical solution that is too can damage
carpets, upholstery, wheels, etc. It costs more in actual product cost and
additional labour to correct any problems that occur due to improper
dilution.
b) Over-dilution - a weak chemical solution can cause inadequate
cleaning performance, which means you will have to re-clean the same areas.
With carpet and fabric upholstery, this can lead to over-wetting, resulting in
such things as mould, mildew, shrinkage, etc.
c)
Spot testing to ensure chemical will not stain or damage material is also very
important
Be
cognizant that a chemical may be aggressive but its strength may be diluted
with a solvent or a chemical buffer; its aggressiveness is also dependent upon
the percentage of that chemical as part of the products formulation
Important Note: All warnings, cautions and recommendations listed by the
manufacturers/OSHA should be complied with when working with chemicals.
Pre-test
Spot Procedures
Read
the product labels and manufacturers safety data sheets (MSDS) to obtain a
basic idea of contents, pH levels etc. Depending on the pH of the product you
use you should return the surface to neutral (pH 7.0) before you apply any
dressing or protective products. Always select a chemical / cleaner that are
biodegradable, environmentally friendly and safe to use by observing any
precautions recommended so that they won’t harm you, your vehicle or the
environment. Read the product labels and manufacturers safety data sheets
(MSDS) to obtain a basic idea of contents, pH levels etc.
When spraying any surface with a liquid, it is always advisable
to spray a small area first (test area) then allow to dry to make sure the
solution does not react with the surface.
Providing
the cleaning product selected is suitable, apply several drops of the selected
cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area and rub gently with a clean, white
micro fibre towel. Do not over wet. Use small amounts of the product and blot
frequently, do not rub or use too much pressure. Do not use the product if it adversely changes the material’s colour or texture.
Chemistry 101 - a large amount of heat is released when strong acids are mixed
with water; adding more acid releases more heat. If you add water to acid, you
form an extremely concentrated solution of acid initially. So much heat is
released that the solution may boil very violently, splashing concentrated acid
out of the container. If you add acid to
water, the solution that forms is very dilute and the small amount of heat
released is not enough to vaporize and spatter it. So Always Add Acid to water, and never the reverse
Distilled
water
Potable
water usually contains a number of microscopic contaminants, along with
dissolved minerals such as calcium and iron.
Distilled
water should ideally be nothing but hydrogen and oxygen molecules and has
virtually all of its impurities removed through distillation, which involves
boiling the water and re-condensing the steam into a clean container (pH 6.0 –
7.5) any dissolved solids such as salt, bacteria, calcium or iron remain solid
while the pure water converts to a much lighter steam and is drawn out for
condensation, leaving most if not all solid contaminants behind.
Distilled
water is preferred for dilution as it’s a ‘known’ quantity, unlike domestic
potable water
In
larger chemical and biological laboratories, as well as industry, cheaper
alternatives such as deionized water are preferred over distilled water.
Water-based
Chemicals
used in detailing products require a carrier system, which can be solvent or
water-based. Many products formulate their chemical (or an oil emulsion) using
water as a carrier system to ensure an even distribution
Detailing
Chemicals
This
is a list of chemicals found in some automotive products, giving their chemical
names and synonyms, along with the effect they can have on vehicles. This is by no means an
exhaustive list
I
can only comment on what the product manufacturer states his product contains
(MSDS or product label), and first-hand knowledge of how it performs, otherwise
I might be subject to litigation
When
it comes to product marketing and technical specifications, it is also
important to realize that all companies must keep secure their proprietary
information and agreements. Without this, no business would have the incentive
to develop new products, expand their market, stay competitive, and ultimately
- exist.
Critics
say the lack of knowledge about chemicals exposes a system where environmental
regulators largely rely on companies that profit from industrial chemicals to
sound alarms about their safety. questions about potential effects on human
health and the environment often aren't raised until years after a chemical is
introduced to the marketplace.
Read
the manufacturers application instructions and then obtain and read the MSDS
sheet to ascertain the chemicals used, although it should be said that an MSDS
is a document that contains details of the hazards associated with a particular
chemical and provides information regarding its safe use. The MSDS is required
to state the chemical's risks, safety and impact on the environment.
Product Relabeling
Many
car care companies use Chemical company’s plants and R&D (i.e. Warner
Chemical or P & B Manufacturing) products that are specifically mixed and
then re-labelled.
The same is also true of foam pads, Lake County Mfg. relabelled their foam for many
different vendors
The
consumer must have confidence that the labeling on the products they purchase
has not been changed or altered in any way so that the information about the
product is accurate
Chemical Resistant
Trigger Sprayers
Kwazar Mercury Pro - spray bottles are designed specifically for cleaning and
detailing professionals. Every pump delivers twice the product onto the
surface. High-density Polyethylene (HDPE) is resistant to many different
solvents
Plus this
sprayer has Viton ® Seals for high temperature and chemically aggressive
applications, the spray can be adjusted from fine mist to a constant stream and
also has stainless steel (chemical resistant) trigger spring fitted. Sizes
available in 0.5 Litre (17 oz.) and 1 Litre (33oz.), available in blue, green,
red, and yellow spray tops
Cleaning - Place spray assembly in a bucket of warm / hot soapy water and
pump the trigger a few time, rinse by doing the same thing with clean warm /
hot water
Safe Drinking
Water and Toxic Enforcement Act (Proposition 65)
In
1986, California voters approved an initiative to address their growing
concerns about exposure to toxic chemicals. That initiative became the Safe
Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, better known by its original
name of Proposition 65. Proposition 65 requires the State to publish a list of
chemicals known to cause cancer or birth defects or other reproductive harm.
This list, which must be updated at least once a year, has grown to include
approximately 775 chemicals since it was first published in 1987.
Proposition
65 requires businesses to notify Californians about significant amounts of
chemicals in the products they purchase, in their homes or workplaces, or that
are released into the environment.
By
providing this information, Proposition 65 enables Californians to make
informed decisions about protecting themselves from exposure to these
chemicals. Proposition 65 also prohibits California businesses from knowingly
discharging significant amounts of listed chemicals into sources of drinking
water.
The
Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) administers the
Proposition 65 program. OEHHA, which is part of the California Environmental
Protection Agency (Cal/EPA), also evaluates all currently available scientific
information on substances considered for placement on the Proposition 65 list.
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) should be
available for every chemical you use. Read these and follow the recommendations
for safe use and disposal of the material. As required by the Occupational
Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), the target audience for information in
a MSDS is the occupation worker who may be exposed to chemicals at work.
However, much of the information is also relevant to consumers.
Read the manufacturers application instructions and
then obtain and read the MSDS sheet to ascertain the chemicals used. Although
it should be said that an MSDS is a document that contains details of the
hazards associated with a particular chemical and provides information
regarding its safe use. The MSDS is required to state the chemical's risks,
safety and impact on the environment.
A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is a fact sheet
developed by manufacturers describing the chemical properties of a product.
Material Safety Data Sheets include brand-specific information such as physical
data (solid, liquid, colour, melting point, flash point, etc.), health effects,
first aid, reactivity, storage, handling, disposal, personal protection and
spill/leak procedures.
How to Read a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/co/maho/gemare/gemare_012.cfm
Chemical Information (MSDS) A-Z- http://www.ehso.com/msds.php
Household Cleaners
If you're using common household cleaners, you're
likely to encounter the following chemicals (among many others), and the
following effects, while cleaning:
·
Chlorinated phenols found in toilet
bowl cleaners are toxic to respiratory and circulatory systems.
·
Diethylene glycol found in window
cleaners depresses the nervous system.
·
Phenols found in disinfectants are
toxic to respiratory and circulatory systems.
·
Only phenol ethoxylate, a common
surfactant (or detergent) found in laundry detergents and all-purpose cleaners,
is banned in Europe, and biodegrades slowly into even more toxic compounds.
·
Formaldehyde found in spray and wick
deodorizers are a respiratory irritant and suspected carcinogen.
·
Petroleum solvents in floor cleaners
damage mucous membranes.
·
Perchloroethylene, a spot remover,
causes liver and kidney damage.
·
Butyl Cellosolve, common in
all-purpose, window and other types of cleaner’s damages bone marrow, the
nervous system, kidneys and the liver.
Unfortunately, it's not easy to identify which
products contain these hazardous ingredients. While cleaners are the only
household products regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission under
the Federal Hazardous Substances Labelling
Act, they're still not required to reveal their ingredients, as they are
considered "trade secrets" so government regulations are actually
designed to protect this proprietary information rather than to protect human
health or the environment
Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS#)
Each CAS registry number (often referred to as CAS #) is a unique numeric identifier that designates only
one substance; it has no specific chemical significance, but is a link to a
wealth of information about a specific chemical substance. Since CAS Registry
Numbers are not dependent upon any system of chemical nomenclature, they can
provide a reliable common link between the various nomenclatures terms used to
describe substances. And serve as an international resource for chemical
substance identifiers used by scientists, industry, and regulatory bodies
Chemical Profiles - this site provides
detailed information on more than 11,200 chemicals, including all the chemicals
used in large amounts in the United States and all the chemicals regulated
under major environmental laws. You can search for information by typing in the
chemical's name (or any common synonym) or the chemical's standard
identification number) - http://www.scorecard.org/chemical-profiles/
Acids
are highly corrosive; the skull and crossbones warning on an acid label is
there for a reason; acids will etch or erode anything in its path, they are
also very effective in dissolving metals and etching glass. Dilution - adding
water to an acid it lowers its pH, i.e. it becomes more acidic; the process is
called hydrolysis)
The
dilution of an acid doesn’t make it safer as the addition of a molecule of
water to a chemical compound, without forming any other products is known as
hydration (i.e. dilution causes the pH to decrease) But since pH is not a very
good indicator of the strength of the acid in every system, this approach won't
always produce the desired results.
Don't Play Mad
Scientist
Don't
haphazardly mix chemicals; pay attention to the order in which chemicals are to
be added to each other and do not deviate from the instructions. Even chemicals
that mix to produce seemingly safe products should be handled carefully.
For
example, hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide will give you salt water, but
the reaction could break your glassware or splash the reactants onto you if you
aren't careful. Some rules are NOT made
to be broken. That is true of the rules used for chemicals. They are
established for your safety and those of other’s around you.
Ratios (Dilution):
Dilution
rates are shown as a ratio i.e. a solution of Distilled water / Chemical 5:1,
this means that the product is diluted five parts distilled water to one part
chemical. If you have a
container with dilution markings fill the bottle with water to the dilution
level required and then add product to the fill line.
Ratios- convert the ratio into fractions. Add the two numbers of the
ratio together then use that number as a denominator for the individual parts.
Multiply total amount of solution you want by the fractions.
Example- distilled water to product with a dilution ratio of 5:1 in a
16oz spray bottle >
(5:1 ratio) 5 + 1 = 6, Water =16 x 5 / 6
(0.833) = 13.33 = 13.25 oz. Product = 16 x 1/6 (0.166) = 2.66
Use 13.25 oz. of water / 2.75oz of product.
Shelf-Life
a) Polymers have a shelf life of approx. 3-5 years if kept in
their original containers and stored at temperatures as above
b) Polish - technically 2 years, however if bottle is kept
closed, and the product has not separated, there would be no problem with use
for four years after sale date.
c) Waxes - will last almost indefinitely, provided that they are
stored a sealed in their original containers and in the refrigerator or
controlled environment once opened. The liquids should last 18 months if stored
at normal room temperature.
d) Detailing Chemicals (Wheel cleaners, all purpose cleaners
(APC) and etc.) have an almost indefinite shelf life if kept in their original
containers and stored at temperatures as above, see also Product separation
e) Product separation - if product emulsion separates it could be
indicative of age (but not necessarily past its useful life) shake vigorously
for 5-10 minutes and see if the product re- mixes.
Product shelf -life may vary
from one manufacturer to another, if in doubt check with product mfg. or
vendor.
Chemical
Name:
Ammonium
hydrogen fluoride (NH4HF2)
Or
Ammonium bifluoride SiO2 (BF) is miss-classified as the safe
alternative to hydrogen fluoride, once mixed with water it becomes hydrogen
fluoride one of the most common, and dangerous, acid wheel cleaners used in
automatic carwashes today. Its effectiveness removing brake dust and difficult
contaminants from wheels is undisputed, but most chemists say Ammonium
bifluoride presents an unjustifiable and potentially lethal risk.
Ammonium
thioglycolate
Chemical
salt CAS # 68-11-1 [: a chemical compound with the formula
HSCH2CO2NH4]
[Mercaptoacetic acid; sodium salt; mercaptoacetic acid;
monosodium salt; Sodium thioglycolate; Sodium thioglycolate; Thioglycolic acid,
sodium salt; sodium thioglycollate;]
Thioglycolic acid, a simple sulphur group-
chained carboxylic acid, is a clear liquid; soluble in water. Sulphur group will react with bases.
Being
the salt of a weak acid and weak base, ammonium thioglycolic acid exists in
solution as an equilibrium mixture of the salt itself as well as the free
carboxylic acid thioglycolic acid and ammonia: A solution containing ammonium
thioglycolate contains a lot of free ammonia, which exhibits an exothermic
reaction. This salt was once used for exothermic permanent wave lotions; they
now use permsodium thioglycolate instead of ammonium thioglycolate
Ammonia (NH3)
The
polarity of NH3 molecules and their ability to form hydrogen bonds explains to
some extent the high solubility of ammonia in water, however, a chemical
reaction also occurs when ammonia dissolves in water.
In
aqueous solution, ammonia acts as a base; acquiring hydrogen ions from H2O
to yield ammonium and hydroxide ions the production of hydroxide ions when
ammonia dissolves in water gives aqueous solutions of ammonia their
characteristic alkaline (basic) properties. Not all of the dissolved ammonia
reacts with water to form ammonium ions.
A
substantial fraction remains in the molecular form in solution, in other words,
ammonia is a weak base, and quantitative indication of this strength is given
by its base ionization constant
Butyl
Cellosolve
Synonyms: Butyl (2-butoxyethanol)
An ethylene glycol-based solvent, it is recommended that one use
precautions when working with glycol ethers such as 2-butoxyethanol, as it is
toxic. Employers are required by United States federal law to inform employees
when they are working with these substances. [1]
Butyl
(2-butoxyethanol) is as a strong ethylene glycol-based solvent, and a highly
effective cleaner, as well as inexpensive, it is harmful to man and the
environment. It white-stains aluminium and damage clear coated (painted) wheels
and powder coating finishes. Butyl is also very harsh on your skin, causes
respiratory distress when inhaled, and it is not readily biodegradable.
A
chemical that is found in a wide variety of household cleaning agents - glass
cleaners, oven cleaners, general degreasers, spot removers, air fresheners, and
carpet cleaners, among other things. It is a
colourless liquid with a sweet, ether-like odour and is manufactured by
the Eastman Kodak company. It is also known as butyl glycol, Dowanol,
Bane-Clene and ethylene glycol monobutyl ether (EGBE), which has made it on to
the list of California’s toxic air substances
Research
has shown that skin can also absorb 2-butoxyethanol vapour from the air, making
skin a major pathway of exposure to this chemical
Benzene
Synonyms:
Benzol, Cyclohexatriene
Effects
on Vehicle: Paint streaking, damage. Health Effects: Carcinogenic Found In:
Solvents, Compounds
Butanone
Synonyms: Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK)
Effects on Vehicle: Damage, an organic compound; it dissolves
many substances, cellulose acetate and nitrocellulose coatings (paint)
polyurethane coating and vinyl films. Health Effects: Butanone is an irritant.
Found In: Solvents
Coolant
Anti-Freeze
Ethylene glycol - is toxic to humans, as
well as to animals and should therefore be handled and disposed of properly. It
has a sweet taste that can contribute to its accidental ingestion. Various
symptoms can result from such poisoning, including severe diarrhoea and vomiting. Some
ethylene glycol antifreeze contains an embittering agent such as denatonium to
help discourage either accidental or deliberate consumption.
Propylene glycol - on the other hand, is
considerably less toxic and may be labelled as non-toxic antifreeze. It is used
as antifreeze where ethylene glycol would be inappropriate, such as in
food-processing systems or in water pipes in homes where incidental ingestion
may be possible.
Propylene
glycol oxidizes when exposed to air and heat. When this occurs lactic acid is
formed. [8][9] If not properly inhibited, this fluid can be very corrosive.ph
buffering agents are added to propylene glycol, preventing low pH attack on the
system metals. [1]
Hydrogen
Fluoride
Synonyms: HF, Hydrofluoric Acid Bi-ammonium fluoride, ammonium
fluoride
Effects on person: Small amounts of concentrated hydrofluoric
acid on the skin can be fatal. Effects on Vehicle: Damages wheels, painted
surfaces. Found In: Wheel Cleaner, Concrete Cleaner, Fallout Remover
Hydrofluoric
Acid (HF)
Is
dangerous, just small amounts of concentrated hydrofluoric acid on the skin can
be fatal. The purpose of this notice is to raise awareness of the inherent
dangers associated with dermal contact with concentrated hydrofluoric acid and
of the importance of observing strict precautions when handling it.
Hydrofluoric
acid is a corrosive and toxic liquid that is potentially fatal even following
dermal exposure to small amounts (Burke et al., 1973). The fatality risks
described highlights the potential for relatively small quantities of
concentrated hydrofluoric acid to produce acute systemic toxicity and it is
clear that laboratory personnel underestimated the risks associated with the
acid
Hydrofluoric
(HF) acid's ability to dissolve oxides makes it important in the purification
of both aluminium and uranium. It is also used to etch glass, to remove surface
oxides from silicon in the semiconductor industry, as a catalyst for the
alkylation of isobutene and butane in oil refineries and to remove oxide impurities from stainless
steel in a process called pickling.
Do
not confuse hydrochloric acid (HCL) with hydrofluoric (HF, has a pH of 3.14)
acid because of the similarity of names. On the skin, hydrochloric acid burns
from the outside in. Hydrofluoric acid solution readily penetrates the skin and
burns both skin and deeper tissues. If enough acid is absorbed, it may lethally
affect the heart and nervous system.
CDC Information on Hydrofluoric Acid -http://www.bt.cdc.gov/.../hydrofluoricacid/basics/facts.asp
Isoamyl
acetate
Isoamyl
acetate (banana oil) which is a solvent with a banana fragrance
Muriatic
Acid (Hydrochloric acid)
Hydrochloric
acid is the solution of hydrogen chloride (HCl) in water. It is a highly
corrosive, strong mineral acid and has major industrial uses. It is found
naturally in gastric acid. Historically called muriatic acid or spirits of
salt, hydrochloric acid was produced from vitriol and common salt. Muriatic
acid has a pH of 0.1used to clean concrete
Methyl
ethyl ketone (MEK)
See
Butanone
M-Xylene
Synonyms: Meta-Xylene, 1, 3-Dimethylbenzene, m-Xylol
Effects on Vehicle: Paint streaking and other damage, found In:
Solvents, Compounds
Mineral
Spirits
Also known as White Spirit or Stoddard Solvent, used for
cleaning and degreasing machine tools and parts
Neutralized
Acid Salt
[: Base + Acid ---> Water + Salt]
Bases
usually have an OH, Acids usually have an H, H+ OH form H2O the
leftovers of the reactants form a salt. pH is the concentration of H ions in
the solution. As the acid gets neutralized, more of the H ions combine with OH
and form water lowering the H concentration and pH
Neutralization
is the reaction between an acid and a base (alkaline) producing a salt and
neutralized base. Common examples include acetic acid and sulphuric acid, when
mixed with water cause an exothermic chemical reaction, loosening the sintered
ferrous metal particulates, which have been converted entirely to rust and
disintegrates forming a miscible emulsion that can be rinsed away.
Oxalic
Acid
Although
considered to be one of the safer ‘active acids’, especially when compared to
HF, etc. contribute to further damage of the paints resin system softening the
paint, damaging soft exterior trim and aluminium creating long-term damage that
may not be evident for months.
Oxalic
acid exhibits many of the reactions characteristic of other carboxylic acids;
it’s a relatively strong organic acid, being about 10,000 times stronger than
acetic acid (Vinegar). It tends to soften the clear coat; it bleaches uncoated
metals and etches glass. This acid still needs to be handled with care and
should not be allowed to dry on a paint surface.
Oxalic acid's main applications include
cleaning or bleaching, especially for the removal of rust, e.g. Bar Keepers
Friend is an example of a household cleaner containing oxalic acid. Be cognizant that Oxalic acid can damage
the paints resin (binder) system in the long term and may also soften paint
Caution: Oxalic acid is considered to be a poison
Potassium
Hydroxide
Synonyms: Ethanedioic Acid Caustic potash, Potassium hydrate,
Potassium lye.
Effects on vehicle: Strong oxidizer affects paint in high %
concentrations, found In: Cleaners
Phosphoric
Acid
[: a mineral (inorganic
acid) having the chemical formula H3PO Used as a rust converter; by direct application to rusted iron
particles, it converts iron oxide (rust) to black ferric phosphate, FePO4.]
Synonyms: Orthophosphoric acid
Effects on Vehicle Smokes wheels, chalks plastics, found In:
Wheel Cleaners, de-greasers, concrete cleaners
Sodium Laureth Sulphate
Sodium lauryl ether sulphate (SLES), is a detergent and
surfactant,
Sodium
Metasilicate, Anhydrous
Synonyms: Silicic acid, sodium salt
Effects on Vehicle: Damages aluminium causes chalking, streaks
paint, found In: Cleaners, de-greasers
Sodium
Hydroxide
Synonyms: Caustic Soda, Sodium Hydrate, and Soda Lye
Sodium
hydroxide (pH 13.5) also known as lye and caustic soda is used in many
industries, mostly as a strong chemical base in the manufacture of drinking
water, soaps and detergents and as a drain cleaner, but used with a chemical
buffer it shouldn’t scare people.
Effects on Vehicle: Strong oxidizer causes discoloration,
attacks rubber and plastics, found In: Cleaners
Sulfamic
Acid
Synonyms:
Amidosulfonic acid, Amidosulfuric acid, Aminosulfonic acid, and Sulfamidic acid
(H3NSO3)
may be considered an intermediate compound between sulphuric acid (H2SO4), and
sulfamide (H4N2SO2)
Effects
on Vehicle: see sulphuric acid
Simple
Green or Crystal Simple Green
Aluminium
is a soft metal that easily corrodes with unprotected exposure to water. The
aqueous-base and alkalinity of Simple Green or Crystal Simple Green are
corrosive and will react with bare aluminium causing hydrogen embrittlement
(this is also known as stress cracking corrosion). As the cleaner gradually
ferments it reduces the pH from its normal mildly alkaline state to acidic.
Slow corrosion of the aluminium results, generating a little hydrogen on the
surface.
Anaerobic
conditions also generate hydrogen and hydrogen sulphide bio chemically, producing
small amounts of methane. The aluminium probably has sufficient residual stress
to be susceptible to hydrogen stress cracking, and this can be accelerated by
the sulphide
Therefore,
contact times of All-Purpose Simple Green and Crystal Simple Green with
unprotected or unpainted aluminium surfaces should be kept as brief as the job
will allow - never for more than 10 minutes. Large cleaning jobs should be
conducted in smaller-area stages to achieve lower contact time.
Rinsing
after cleaning should always be extremely thorough - paying special attention
to flush out cracks and crevices to remove all Simple Green/Crystal Simple
Green residues. Unfinished, uncoated or unpainted aluminium cleaned with Simple
Green products should receive some sort of protectant after cleaning to prevent
oxidation.
Simple Green is corrosive and will react with bare aluminium causing hydrogen
embrittlement (this is also known as stress cracking corrosion). As the cleaner
gradually ferments it reduces the pH from its normal mildly alkaline state to
acidic. Slow corrosion of the aluminium results, generating a little hydrogen
on the surface.
Anaerobic
conditions also generate hydrogen and hydrogen sulphide bio chemically,
producing small amounts of methane. The aluminium probably has sufficient
residual stress to be susceptible to hydrogen stress cracking, and this can be
accelerated by the sulphide.
Trisodium
phosphate
The
major use for trisodium phosphate (TSP) (Na3PO4) is in cleaning
agents. An extreme alkali chemical, even at 1% dilution the pH is 12.0 and this solution is sufficiently
alkaline to convert (a fat or oil) into soap. Rarely used due to environmental
concerns
Toluene
Synonyms: Toulon, Methylbenzene
Effects on Vehicle: Paint streaking and damage. Health Effects:
Central nervous system depression, cardiac disrythmia. Found In: Solvents,
Compounds
MSDS and pH values –
1. Acids can be safe if used with care and the directions are followed
precisely.
2. Accidents and expensive replacements can always be avoided if you do
some research and are smart about your choices.
3. Always check the products MSDS and its pH value before you use it.
4. Dilution of an acid- the addition of a molecule of water to a chemical compound,
without forming any other products is known as hydration (i.e. dilution causes
the pH to decrease)
High pH (base)
A
strong base is a base which hydrolyzes completely, raising the pH of the
solution toward 14. Concentrated bases, like concentrated acids, attack living
tissue and cause serious burns. They react differently to skin than acids do,
so while strong
acids are corrosive, strong bases are referred to as caustic.
Solvents
There are three main types;
1. Oxygenated
Solvents- alcohols, glycol ethers, ketones, esters,
and glycol ether esters. Oxygenated solvents are synthesized from other
chemicals to form the desired solvent. Those solvents are typically of a high
purity with specifications ranging from 99.0% to 99.9% purity.
2. Hydrocarbon
Solvents (Petroleum Distillates) - aliphatic
(include methane, propane, and kerosene, they are flammable and may be
explosively flammable).
3. Aromatic
hydrocarbons- which are the most toxic compounds
found in petroleum products and include such substances as para-xylene
(Benzene, Toluene, Ethyl benzene, and Xylene), which are all volatile organic
compounds (VOC)
Notes- when using
solvents always use Nitrile medical gloves (usually the blue or purple ones) if
you are going to be using them for any length of time.
Solvents are used
for chemical cleaning, and as a carrier system, it also makes products workable
and to provide spread ability, as is the case with Carnauba wax, which in its
natural state is rock hard.
The low surface
tension of silicones is sometimes added to solvents to improve the wetting
ability and to improve the surface contact.
Solvents require an
aerobic cure (exposure to air) to allow them to evaporate (outgas); some
solvents contain formaldehyde, which dissolves both natural rubber and
synthetic compounds, and some contain petroleum distillates specifically
hydrocarbon and oxygenated solvents, which represent most of the total organic
solvents used.
Organic solvents
can be classified by chemical structure, for example water is a solvent, but is
inorganic. Solvents provide solubility for the other ingredients, dependent
upon the type of solvent used will determine the product's drying time.
Use a safe solvent;
Anhydrous Isopropyl alcohol, Isoamyl acetate (Banana oil) or d-Limonene (citrus based) that does not contain any harmful components
(Butyl, Heptanes or Xylene or hydrocarbon aliphatic solvents) With all cleaning
products (especially solvents) always test a small inconspicuous area first to
ensure it won't discolour, stain or etch the surface, and ensure that the pH of
the product is suitable for the material
After the paint
surface has been subjected to a chemical cleaning its protective layer (s) have
been removed and the paint surface left without protection, so it is very
important that a wax or polymer protection be applied immediately.
NFPA Fire Diamond
Health Risk – Flammability – Instability – Special Hazards
Health Risk 0 - 4
4 - Very short exposures could cause
death or serious residual injury even though prompt medical attention was
given.
3 - Short exposures could cause
serious temporary or residual injury even though prompt medical attention was
given.
2 - Intense or continued exposure could
cause temporary incapacitation or possible residual injury unless prompt
medical attention is given.
1- Exposure could cause
irritation but only minor residual injury even if no treatment is given.
0- Exposure under fire
conditions would offer no hazard beyond that of ordinary combustible materials.
I hope this article has given you some insight into the hundreds
of chemical products the auto detailing industry has available. Good detailing
requires a little knowledge of chemistry and to this end I hope I have provided
you with enough information to understand at least the basics of cleaning and
detailing using chemicals.
Environmental
Commitment
One
should never assume that aqueous solutions can be disposed of down the storm
drain. Your local water treatment authority or publicly owned treatment works
will have information on treatment and disposal of these cleaners. Adjustment
of pH and dilution are usually required before disposal to a drain. Always
comply with current water usage and disposal regulations / water usage
restrictions. Always responsibly dispose of all non-biodegradable materials
from your vehicle cleaning in a responsible manner
Disposal of
Aqueous Solutions
One
should never assume that aqueous solutions can be disposed of down the drain.
The storm drain system takes all the water from outside homes and businesses
(rain, overwatering of lawns) and sends it untreated straight to our local
creeks, rivers, bays and eventually the ocean. The storm drain system is
designed as a flood control system to allow water from heavy rainstorms to flow
quickly to our waterways to avoid flooding of our streets, homes and
businesses. However, the rainwater can
pick up pollutants as large as shopping carts or as microscopic as pesticides and
fertilizer and flush it all into our waterways damaging the fish, plants and
other living things in our eco-system.
With
few exceptions, it is illegal for anyone to throw, dispose of or allow anything
other than rainwater into the storm drains. Try to divert car wash water to a
landscaped or planted area. Your local water treatment authority or publicly
owned treatment works will have information on treatment and disposal of these
cleaners. Adjustment of pH and dilution are usually required before disposal to
a drain. Always comply with current water
usage and disposal regulations / water usage restrictions.
A
car care product may be biodegradable and environmentally safe but just
remember the dirt, oil and road grease you are cleaning with it are not, once
rinsed off the vehicle paint surface the resultant solution is no longer
biodegradable and environmentally safe
Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE)
Protection from Potential Health Hazards
1.
Warning: Always use ground fault protection
interruption (GFPI) when using any electrical device around water
2.
Eye Protection: I would strongly advise
the wearing of safety glasses or visor when operating any machine polisher.
3.
Ear Protection; the constant pitch of a
polishing machine could affect your hearing so wearing ear plugs would be wise
to protect you from hearing loss.
4.
Hand Protection; Gloves- with the verity of chemicals a detailer uses on a daily
basis wearing Nitrile rubber cloves or
a good quality Barrier cream will
protect your skin
5.
Respiratory Protection (N95): Materials
such as aluminium oxide (Aluminium oxide is on EPA's TRI list if it is a
fibrous form) or silicon carbide (Nuisance particulate-Accumulation in lungs)
used in polishes and compounds, and powdered fillers (Crystalline silica poses
a serious inhalation hazard because it can cause silicosis) and Isocyanate
clear coat residue represent a hazard to your lungs and may cause respiratory
distress. Use a NIOSH-approved half face
respirator equipped with a combination filter cartridge should be worn while
using them
6.
Consult the current 3M Respiratory
Selection Guide for additional information or call 1-800-243-4630 for 3M
technical assistance.
7.
Material Safety Data Sheets: Use a ring binder or other filing system to
ensure the appropriate MSDS is always available to identify hazardous
substances
8.
Work Hygienic Practices: Rinse cloves
under running water before removing them
9. Protect yourself, work
safe. As in all things, allow common sense to prevail and proceed with due
caution
References
1.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Hazardous
Substances Data Bank (HSDB, online database). National Toxicology Information
Program, National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD. 1993.
2.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Integrated Risk
Information System (IRIS) on Hydrogen Chloride National Center for
Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, Washington, DC
1999
3.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Registry of Toxic
Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS, online database) National Toxicology
Information Program, National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD 1993.
4.
California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) Air Toxics
Hot Spots Program Risk Assessment Guidelines: Part III. Technical Support Document for the
Determination of Noncancerous Chronic Reference Exposure Levels SRP Draft
Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, Berkeley, CA. 1999
5.
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists
(ACGIH). 1999 TLVs and BEIs Threshold
Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents Biological Exposure
Indices. Cincinnati, OH. 1999.
6.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH). Pocket Guide to Chemical
Hazards. U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention. Cincinnati, OH. 1997.
7.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Occupational Safety and Health Standards,
Toxic and Hazardous Substances Code of Federal Regulations 29 CFR 1910.1000
1998
8.
American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA). The AIHA 1998 Emergency Response Planning
Guidelines and Workplace Environmental Exposure Level Guides Handbook 1998
Bibliography
1.
Chemistry Definitions (Terminology) Hamilton
2.
Glossary of Chemical Terms - Faculty of Chemical Technology
3.
Scorecard provides detailed information on more than 11,200
chemicals
5.
M. Sittig. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and
Carcinogens 2nd ed. Noyes Publications, Park Ridge, NJ. 1985.
6.
The Merck Index. An Encyclopaedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and
Biological 11th ed. Ed. S. Budavari Merck and Co. Inc., Rahway, NJ 1989
7.
National Petrochemical & Refiners Association (NPRA)
8.
The Royal Society of Chemistry; Cambridge, 1995
Silicon-Containing Polymers Jones, Richard, G.
9.
The American Solvents Council (ASC) Annual Occupational Hygiene,
Vol. 40, No.6, pp. 705-710, 1996.
11.
Specialized Information Services (SIS) Division of the National
Library of Medicine (NLM)
.jpg)
