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LVP Fluids, with their very low vapor pressures, are slow to dry in comparison to other commonly used fluids such as mineral spirits. Prudent blending with LVP Fluids, using only the amount required to meet a product's VOC standard, is one way to achieve the best possible evaporation profile without a noticeable reduction in product dry-time when first applied.
BERET Method
To assist our customers in identifying the best LVP Fluid blends to meet VOC standards for specific consumer products, ExxonMobil Chemical has developed a modified evaporation test method (BERET). Using the BERET method, for example, a 40/60 VOC/LVP Fluid blend was identified that simulates the initial evaporation profile of Exxsol D60 Fluid, a 143°F flash point dearomatized aliphatic fluid often used in engine degreasers or penetrating oil. The BERET method indicated that 30% of the Exxsol D60 Fluid would evaporate during the first 30 minutes of the test. A blend of 40% Isopar G Fluid, a faster evaporating isoparaffin, and 60% Exxsol D110 Fluid achieved the same initial 30% evaporation profile.
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| The following are examples of starting formulations for a 75% VOC Fabric Protectant required by U.S. EPA Consumer Products regulations and a 60% VOC product required by CARB. The dry-time was verified with the BERET method. A reduction in flash point is often the trade-off.
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