The fourth edition contains the most recent findings and trends in solvent application. This volume together with Vol. 1 Properties; Databook of Green Solvents; and Databook of Solvents contains the most comprehensive, and up-to-date information ever published on solvents. Handbook of Solvents is the definitive reference for professionals from the research, development, and regulatory sectors in the chemical industry.
The volume begins with a discussion of solvents used in over 30 industries, which are the main consumers of solvents. The analysis is conducted based on the available data and contains information on the types (and frequently amounts) of solvents used and potential problems and solutions.
Chapter 14 contains information on the methods of analysis of solvents and materials containing solvents. The chapter is divided into two sections containing standard and special methods of solvent analysis. This chapter is followed by a discussion of residual solvents left in the final products.
The environmental impact of solvents, such as their fate and movement in the water, soil, and air, fate-based management of solvent-containing wastes, and ecotoxicological effects are discussed in chapter 16. The chapter also contains a discussion of solvents' impact on tropospheric air pollution.
The next two chapters are devoted to the toxicology of solvents and regulations aiming to keep solvents toxicity under control. The analysis of the concentration of solvents in more than 15 industries, specific issues related to the paint industry, and characteristics of the environment in automotive collision repair shops are followed by a thorough discussion of regulations in the USA and Europe.
Solvent toxicology chapters were written by professors and scientists from major centers who study the effects of solvents on various aspects of human health, immediate reaction to solvent poisoning, the persistence of symptoms of solvent exposure, and effects of solvents on various parts of the human organism. This is a unique collection of observations that should be frequently consulted by solvent users and agencies which are responsible for the protection of people in the industrial environment.
The following chapters show some examples of solvent substitution by safer materials. Here the emphasis is placed on supercritical solvents, ionic liquids, deep eutectic solvents, and agriculture-based products, such as ethyl lactate. Discussion of solvent recycling, removal, and degradation includes absorptive solvent recovery, comparison of results of recovery and incineration, and application of solar photocatalytic oxidation.
The book is concluded with an evaluation of methods of natural attenuation of various solvents in soils and modern methods of cleaning contaminated soils.
This comprehensive two-volume book has not equal in depth and breadth to any other publication available today. Also, the Solvent database on CD-ROM is available which contains data on close to 2000 solvents. The data organized in sections such as General, Physical & Chemical Properties, Health & Safety, Environmental, and Use, contain all available and required data to use solvents efficiently and safely.
Handbook of Solvents is an indispensable tool for anyone who needs to know about the health, safety, and environmental issues of a wide range of industrial solvents. While preserving the popular features that have made this book so successful in prior editions, it also draws from a wealth of new information and data on solvents and their uses. This new fourth edition is completely revised and updated with respect to earlier editions, as well as with current standards, codes, and regulations.
George Wypych has a Ph.D. in chemical engineering. His professional expertise includes both university teaching (full professor) and research and development. He has published 18 books, 47 scientific papers, and he has obtained 16 patents. He specializes in polymer additives, polymer processing and formulation, material durability and the development of sealants and coatings.