There have been many instances recently where n-Propyl Bromide (particularly EnSolv) has been the hot topic of conversation. This is mainly due to the fact that it is proven to be the best drop in replacement for Trichloroethylene when used in a vapour degreaser.

As trichloroethylene will no longer be supplied for use in an open top vapour degreasing system from 2010, EnSolv has again been targeted. The fact is, when used in an appropriate system, EnSolv provides an excellent safe cleaning medium for both operators and environment. Over the years, EnSolv has established a huge amount of independant test data which has been peer reviewed by world reknowned toxicologists and environmentalists.

The latest development is related to the ozone depletion potential (ODP) of n-PB. Many people were under the assumption that n-PB products were soon to be banned for use due to the ODP values. Only this week, the European parliament have voted in favour of n-PB to be monitored as required by the UN Montreal protocol panel. With an ammendment to the ODS regulation, instead of being banned, n-PB is now included in Annex II, part B as a substance to be monitored under article 27.  

In plain English, EnSolv (formulated n-PB) is still safe for use in a vapour degreaser and is still the ideal drop in replacement for trichloroethylene.