Our TBAc brand of tertiary butyl acetate is a unique non-HAP, VOC-exempt* organic solvent with versatile performance and negligible photochemical reactivity. It is designed to solve many of the compliance issues facing manufacturers and end-users of formulated products.
Benefits and Applications
A versatile oxygenated solvent offering a unique physical property profile, TBAc solvent can be used alone or in solvent blends in applications including coatings, inks, adhesives, industrial cleaners and degreasers. Whether incorporated during resin production or in formulation of the final product, TBAc solvent provides effective performance in a wide range of technologies, resulting in significant reductions in VOC and HAP content.
The physical properties of TBAc solvent set it apart from other VOC-exempt solvents: broad solvency range, an intermediate evaporation rate, low density and a flash point well within accepted industry parameters. This combination of properties, in conjunction with its VOC-exempt and non-HAP status, are key to the versatility of TBAc solvent.
Manufacturers of formulated products in almost all markets are under increasing pressure to reduce VOCs and HAPs and to develop formulations with lower overall environmental impact. TBAc solvent can be used to bring current formulations into compliance with Section 183(e), Federal VOC content limits, MACT HAP content limits, state-adopted CTG limits or local emission restrictions with minimal reformulation effort and no additional capital expenditures.
The unique combination of properties of TBAc solvent makes it an ideal candidate for solvent substitution in many applications. Used alone or in blends, it is a potential substitute for a variety of HAP solvents and VOCs including aromatics (toluene and xylene), ketones (MEK, MIBK), and other esters as well as ozone depleters such as methyl chloroform, CFC-113, and 1,1,1 T.
Toxicology/Regulatory
TBAc solvent exhibits low health hazard potential. Unlike many other solvents, it is only slightly irritating to the eyes and skin. TBAc solvent did not cause allergic reactions following repeated exposures. It was not toxic by inhalation or skin absorption and only slightly toxic by ingestion.
Regulatory Status
*TBAC is now VOC-exempt in Canada (architectural and automotive coatings) and most of the United States. Please check with your state and local regulatory agencies to ensure that they recognize the US EPA VOC definition in 40 C.F.R. § 51.100(s)(5); see also 69 FR 69304. View the EPA ruling.
TBAc is on the US TSCA list and the EEC EINECS, Canadian DSL, and on the Australian, Korean, Philippine, Japanese and Chinese chemical inventories. Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet for more detailed information.
| VOC Status |
Exempt* |
| OSHA PEL (ppm) |
200 |
| HAPs List |
No |
| Cal Proposition 65 List |
No |
| Ozone Depleter |
No |
| Acid Rain Formation |
No |
| Particulate Matter Formation |
No |
| SNAP Approved |
Yes |
| Green House Gas |
No |
Biodegradation
TBAc solvent has been shown to biodegrade in standard closed-bottle laboratory tests using acclimated and non-acclimated microorganisms. 28-day biological oxygen demand (BOD) expressed as % of chemical oxygen demand (COD) ranged from 28% with EPA-approved Polyseed to 75% with acclimated Delcora sludge typically found in Publicly-Owned Treatment Works (POTW). Chemicals with BOD greater than 60% of their COD are generally considered to be "readily biodegradable." TBAc is, therefore, either readily or inherently biodegradable, depending on the microorganisms present.
Storage and Handling
Information and recommendations pertinent to the safe handling of TBAc solvent are contained in the material safety data sheet (MSDS), which should be consulted prior to handling the product.
DOT Classification
Class 3 Flammable
NFPA/HMIS Ratings (H/F/R)
1/3/0
TBAc should be handled and stored with care as a flammable liquid. Precautions should be taken to avoid exposure to flames, static electricity and other possible ignition sources as well as strong oxidizing agents. Storage containers and transfer lines should be adequately grounded. Storage under a nitrogen blanket is suggested.
When firefighting small spills, dry chemical or CO2 may be used. Large fires require an AFFF-AR alcohol resistant or multi-purpose fire foam. Water may be ineffective in firefighting but water fog/spray can be used for cooling.
TBAc is only slightly irritating to the eyes and skin. Protective equipment may include chemical splash goggles and/or face shield and protective clothing including gloves, apron, sleeves, boots and head protection. Materials must be selected with regard to the conditions of use. TBAc may attack some forms of plastics and rubbers. Contact material suppliers of protective equipment and clothing for specific information.
TBAc is a trademark owned or used by LyondellBasell group companies.