Case story database

Search for Successfully Implemented Alternatives

You can use the free text search function to find information in the case story database. Most suitable are: substance name and other substance identifier (EC- and CAS-number). You can refine your search after first entry for sector-, function- and process-categories. The case studies are meant to serve as source of inspiration and ideas for substitution. The alternatives are constantly being developed further. We therefore recommend that you to check in each individual case whether an alternative is suitable for your applications and purposes. If you are aware of any other relevant information that is not mentioned in the current case story, please contact SUBSPORTplus.

In order to utilize information in the best way, please take note of the SUBSPORTplus methodology on case stories!

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Substitution of subtilisins in manual cleaning of flexible endoscopes in hospitals

In a hospital in the Capital Region of Denmark cleaning of flexible endoscopes with enzymes was substituted by a product based on triethanolamine hereby reducing the risk of allergy. The substitution can only be performed if the succeeding machine wash is not based on aldehydes.

Enzymes in pharmaceutical productions can be used for degeneration of meat and for cleaning after greasy productions as an alternative for sodium hydroxide.

Enzymes can be used for cleaning after greasy productions. Lipase and alcalase can replace sodium hydroxide solutions for cleaning. The enzymes are gentler to the production equipment compared to sodium hydroxide, a strong base.

Vegetable oil esters used in cleaning of small parts from metal repair work

A shipbuilding company located in Germany substituted hydrocarbon solvents with esters based on coconut oils. The esters are used for cleaning of small items like bearings, casings or bolts from repair work and maintenance in a ship yard.

Replacement of chlorinated hydrocarbons with the cleaning of small turned items

A machine tool manufacturer substituted chlorinated solvents with modified alcohol. The modified alcohol is used for the cleaning of turned items made of steel, stainless steel, brass, chromium or aluminium in a vacuum degreasing plant.

Component cleaning from the waste incineration plant by low-pressure spray washer

A well-known waste disposer and energy supplier from Germany substituted hydrocarbon solvents with heated aqueous cleaner on a wash stand. This cleaning method is used to remove mud, dust, oil and grease of components from repair- and maintenance purpose.

Substitution von Salpetersäure durch Zitronen- und Essigsäure in der Zuckerproduktion.

Die Nakskov Zuckerraffinerie hat Salpetersäure erfolgreich durch Zitronen- und Essigsäure bei der Reinigung ihrer Produktionsanlage substituiert.

Substitution of nitric acid to citric and acetic acid in sugar production.

Nakskov Sugar Mill have successfully substituted nitric acid with citric- and acetic acid in cleaning their production equipment.

Alternatives to Toxic, VOC, Ozone Depleting and Global Warming Energised Electrical Equipment Cleaners

This study was performed for the US EPA to evaluate the performance of safer alternatives to halogenated solvents used for cleaning of electrical equipment. The study could identify safer alternatives for all the tested applications. These alternatives include soy -and acetone based cleaners, high pressure deionised water and carbon dioxide pellet blasting.

Substitution of methylene chloride as cleaning agent in a company producing construction chemicals

Methylene chloride is used as a solvent and cleaning agent in a company producing construction chemicals (polyurethane foam). Methylene chloride is a carcinogen category 2 and the main concern is related to workers exposure during the cleaning process. After testing eight alternatives, the company found a suitable substitute, however, slight changes to the process are needed (i.e. heating, more after-cleaning).

Substitution of acetone used for washing contaminated machine parts

The company manufactures artificial fibres such as acetate yarn, and used large amounts of acetone to wash the contaminated machine parts. Acetone is highly flammable, causes serious eye irritation and has neurotoxic properties. Due to workers health concerns the company wanted to find a safer alternative. With the encouragement and support of the LIFE Fit for REACH project, the company tested an innovative cleaner containing natural microorganisms that degrade oils, greases and particle impurities. The cleaner proved to be a suitable alternative which was technologically feasible, and safer for workers and the environment.

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