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Q.
What Is the "Trans" Ingredient in Some of the MicroCare Solvents?
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A.
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MicroCare is proud to be one of the first companies in the industry to commercialize cleaning products using "trans." Technically, the ingredient is called Trans 1,2-dichloroethylene; CAS #156-60-5. It is an aliphatic chlorinated hydrocarbon made by PPG and marketed under the name "VersaTrans." It has  been a popular additive for products designed to replace old-style CFC, HCFC and chlorinated solvents such as "Genesolv®" and "HyperClean™."
The reason "Trans" is added to solvents is because it is a very, very powerful solvent. It is a clear, colorless liquid with a slight ethereal odor. The liquid will irritate eyes and skin under repeated or prolonged exposure. As with most solvents of this type, the vapors are heavier than air and can displace air in low-lying locations; this can cause asphyxiation in confined spaces.
Here's a few more numbers, for those who like them: the boiling point is 48°C / 118°F; the freezing point is -50°C / -58°F; the pH is nuetral, and the density of the vapors in air is (where air=1) is 3.34.
The potential health effects are relatively minor. There is a risk of moderate to severe irritation and conjunctivitis if you get it in your eyes. MicroCare recommends technicians use protective safety glasses/goggles when handling this solvent. Where there is potential for skin contact, use the appropriate impervious gloves, apron, pants and/or jackets. Naturally, the material is harmful if swallowed and irritating to the mouth, throat and stomach; this product is not made for internal consumption. For reasons we still can't understand, trans carries severe restrictions in Japan so products containing trans cannot be easily used there.
The PEL exposure limits (as defined by OSHA) for trans,1,2-dichloroethylene is 200 ppm, based on an 8 hour TWA. ACGIH has established a TLV of 200 ppm and DuPont agrees with a recommended AEL of 200 ppm.
The big drawback of trans is that it is flammable. It has a flashpoint of 36° F / 2° C using the Tag Closed Cup method. The Flammable Limits in Air are from 9.7 - 12.8 (% by volume). MicroCare controls the flammability of the material by diluting it with the nonflammable Vertrel® solvents to make potent cleaning solvents. You will find trans in PowerClean™; SuprClean™; Flux Remover C; Heavy Duty Degreaser C; and the Aircraft Flushing Fluid II. It also is often used in the Vertrel® solvents from DuPont.
Always read and understand the MSDS sheets of the products before deciding to use them.
Updated 2-2-2008
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