PROBLEM: Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a massive world-wide cause of pollution, emissions from coatings, fuels, aerosols, solvents, cleaning products and air fresheners among many other sources. The world solvents market grew by 2.3% in 2007 alone to hit 19.7 million tons, and with atmospheric releases still uncontrolled, this represents a serious environmental hazard. Production of most solvents is also based on crude oil feedstock, making them unsustainable.

SOLUTION: Hero bio-chemicals and solvent replacements are made from biological sources which have the potential to dramatically reduce the amount of environmentally-polluting VOCs released to the atmosphere. They also have the advantage of being sustainable.

Some examples of bio-solvents include:

• Vegetable and Soy Methyl Ester
• Lactate Esters
• D-Limonene
• Polyhydroxyalkanoates or PHAs

Industrial Applications: Hero bio-solvents for the printing industry: These solvents are used to dissolve pigments, clean printer rollers, and plates. Hero solvents can also be used to de-ink paper so that both the ink and the paper can be recycled. Hero bio-based paint strippers and brush cleaning solvents are also available.

Hero bio-cleaners help in the area of indoor air quality which is become a growing concern. Cleaning and degreasing products for the household and office are a growing concern as their negative impact on indoor air quality is being more fully understood. Many cleaning products “claim” to be green and environmentally friendly but the FTC has begun an industry review of these claims. Often additives and actives are still produced from petrochemicals. SSI is also researching and testing new bio-solvents with several successful replacements for organic and even halogenated solvents. Watch for demostration videos on this website soon.

To control cost, we have developed the first upcycling chemical processing facility. SSI’s upcycling facility can manufacture methyl esters and other bio-based formulations using 50% less energy This process allows Hero bio-based solvents to be more cost competitive to petroleum derived solvents and chemicals. Hero products can create a cost effective sustainability program for you and your company with a story that your customer’s want to hear.

Steve