What is the impact of the EPA Methylene Chloride rule on vapor degreasing?
As of April, 2026 most commercial uses of Methylene Chloride are prohibited and you will need to stop using it. However, viable alternatives are available now.
In April of 2024, the EPA issued a final rule regulating methylene chloride. Anyone who manufactures, process and distributes methylene chloride may be impacted by the EPA’s regulation of the chemical. Most commercial uses are prohibited after April 28, 2026* – this includes anyone doing vapor degreasing with methylene chloride. For companies using methylene chloride in their vapor degreasing, cleaning and carrier operations, you will need to start finding alternative solvents. The good news is there are several solvents with similar physical characteristics that you can use as a direct replacement for the Methylene Chloride.
Overview of EPA Changes?
Methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane and DCM, is a volatile chemical used in a wide range of industrial, commercial, and consumer applications like adhesives, sealants, degreasers, cleaners, and automobile products. In April of 2024, the EPA issued a final rule regulating methylene chloride also called dichloromethane (DCM) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). This means anyone who manufactures, process and distributes methylene chloride may be impacted by the EPA’s regulation of the chemical.
Most commercial uses are prohibited after April 28, 2026* – this includes anyone doing vapor degreasing with methylene chloride or incorporating the Methylene Chloride into formulations, mixtures or reaction products.
For more information review: https://www.epa.gov/assessing-and-managing-chemicals-under-tsca/risk-management-methylene-chloride
* there are exceptions - see TSCA section 6(g)
FACT SHEET 2024 Final Risk Management Rule for Methylene Chloride under TSCA: https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024-07/mecl-fact-sheet_0.pdf
What are the new exposure limits?
The new exposure limits for Methylene chloride are 2 ppm as an 8-hr TWA and EPA STEL (16 ppm as a 15-min TWA) for all potentially exposed persons.
The Workplace Chemical Protection Program (WCPP) requires that owners and operators of facilities using methylene chloride take appropriate measures to meet new inhalation exposure limits (including 2ppm as an 8-hour time weighted average) and develop and implement an exposure control plan, among other requirements.
What are the implications of the EPA ruling for Methylene Chloride?
Supplies will Diminish: as time progresses supplies of Methylene Chloride will dwindle and become harder to acquire – they will also become progressively more expensive as supplies reduce.
Record Keeping Is Needed: SDS will need to be updated and downstream notifications will need to happen by October, 2024.
Monitoring & PPE Protection: need to be in place by May, 2025
Exposure control plan: will need to be created by October, 2025
For More info: A GUIDE TO COMPLYING WITH THE 2024 METHYLENE CHLORIDE REGULATION UNDER THE TOXIC SUBSTANCES CONTROL ACT (TSCA)
https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024-07/mecl-fact-sheet_0.pdf
Viable Alternatives to Methylene Chloride Are Available
AeroTron-AV alternative vapor degreasing solvent:
Exposure limit: 150 ppm as an 8-hr TWA
US-EPA SNAP approved & Non-NESHAP regulated
Non-flammable
Evaporates quickly
Is compatible with a variety of substrates (including aluminum and stainless)
Azeotropic formulation enables it to be distilled
AeroTron-CCD alternative for carriers & coatings:
The exposure limit: 200 ppm as an 8-hr TWA
Approved for Carrier, Coating, Dilution & Adhesive Applications
Non-flammable
Evaporates quickly
USEPA SNAP Program Approved Components
Conclusion
Begin now to start vetting alternatives to replace Methylene Chloride in your cleaning operation. There are viable direct replacements that have similar physical and performance properties. There is an immediate need to move out of Methylene Chloride, as supplies will dwindle, and prices will rise. Monitoring, control plans and PPE will be required. The TSCA regulation is clear and the phase out of Methylene Chloride is happening quite quickly.
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Give us a call or contact us to discuss your application and how AeroTron-AV and AeroTron-CCD might be options for you. We can test clean parts in our vapor degreasing lab and share our recommendations for optimized cleaning.
At Reliance, we take a comprehensive, systemic approach to supporting our customers to finding solution to their cleaning needs. Reliance Technical Support Department at 847-640-8923. We are glad to be of assistance.
