Perchloroethylene, sometimes known as perc, is an odorless, colorless liquid. Grease, oil, and other organic substances are easily dissolved by this strong solvent. Because Perc effectively removes stains and grime without harming sensitive fabrics, it is utilized in the dry cleaning process. Additionally, it is stable, reasonably priced, and non-flammable.
In a unique device known as a perc dry cleaning machine, dry cleaners employ perc. The clothing is put into a sizable drum and submerged in perc in this machine. The agitation from the machine causes the perc to dissolve and remove dirt and stains from the clothing. The perc is drained and recycled for further use once the clothes have been cleansed in it. Distillation is used to get rid of any last bits of perc from the clothing. While silicone and hydrocarbon are two other solvents that can be used, perc is the most typical solvent for dry cleaning. These solvents are often employed for particular sorts of materials or stains, however they are not as successful as perc.
The threats that perc poses to human health and the environment have gained attention in recent years. Perc is a potentially carcinogenic hazardous air contaminant. Many dry cleaners have stopped using perc and switched to different solvents or procedures in response to these worries.
New guidelines on the use of perc in dry cleaning have also been put in place by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These laws mandate the use of equipment that captures perc emissions and the proper disposal of any perc-containing waste by dry cleaners.
Perchloroethylene, or perc, is the most used dry cleaning solvent. It is a strong solvent that efficiently cleans stains and grime from sensitive materials. However, many dry cleaners have shifted to other solvents or methods because of environmental and health concerns. The EPA regulates perc use to lessen its negative effects on human health and the environment.