Dry Cleaner SOL

Dry Cleaner SOL / Perchloroethylene (PERC) is a widely used solvent in the dry cleaning industry due to its powerful degreasing and stain-removing properties.

What is Perchloroethylene (PERC)?

• Chemical Name: Tetrachloroethylene

• Formula: C₂Cl₄

• Type: Non-flammable, chlorinated solvent

• Appearance: Colorless liquid with a sweet, ether-like odor

How PERC is Used in Dry Cleaning

1. Cleaning Process Overview:

• Clothes are loaded into a dry cleaning machine, which looks like a large front-loading washer.

• Instead of water and detergent, PERC is used as the cleaning solvent.

• The solvent dissolves oil, grease, and organic stains without damaging delicate fabrics like wool, silk, or rayon.

2. Cycle Steps:

• Wash: PERC is pumped into the drum and circulated through the clothes.

• Extract: The solvent is drained and extracted via spinning.

• Dry: Clothes are dried with warm air, and the solvent is collected, condensed, and recycled for reuse.

Dosage

Why PERC is Preferred (Historically):

• Powerful cleaning agent for oils and greases

• Non-flammable, making it safer for industrial use

• Gentle on fabrics, preventing shrinkage and color fading

• Recyclable within the machine, reducing waste

Precautions

Health & Environmental Concerns:

• Toxic if inhaled in large amounts or over time (linked to liver, kidney, and nervous system effects)

• Classified as a possible human carcinogen

• Requires well-ventilated, sealed systems and PPE for operators

• Strictly regulated in many countries (e.g., banned or phased out in California, EU restrictions)

Alternatives to PERC in Modern Dry Cleaning:

• Hydrocarbon solvents (less aggressive, more eco-friendly)

• Liquid CO₂ cleaning

• Siloxane-based solvents (e.g., GreenEarth®)

• Professional wet cleaning (water-based with special machines and detergents)

Conclusion:

Perchloroethylene remains effective but is increasingly being replaced due to safety and environmental concerns. Dry cleaners using PERC must comply with strict safety protocols and environmental regulations.