Dry Cleaning

Perchloroethylene has become the most widely used dry cleaning solvent in the world, essentially because of its efficient solvency, ease of recycling, and the available technology that allows for safe handling.

Benefits of perchloroethylene solvent include:

• A heavier specific gravity than water to provide increased mechanical agitation during the wash cycle
• Low viscosity and low surface tension to enhance penetration of fibers
• Quick evaporation, leaving no residue or odors
• Superior recyclability
• Safe for fabrics and dyes commonly found in the fashion industry

As the largest global producer of perchloroethylene, Dow offers a special formulation of perchloroethylene designed for drycleaners, DOWPER™ solvent and DOWPER™ Pure Power. These solvents are nonflammable and have neither flash point nor a fire point. And since zoning ordinances are often less restrictive when using nonflammable solvents, DOWPER solvents offer greater flexibility in locating a plant.

A summary of dry cleaning literature describes the special reports and newsletters and brochures that you can order from Dow to help you learn more about the latest industry applications.

For more information about dry cleaning, consult International Fabricare Institute, Fabricare Canada, or National Clothesline, the Halogenated Solvents Industry Alliance, and the International Committee of Textile Care.

Closed Loop Delivery Available

DOWPER solvents can be delivered to dry cleaners in a closed-loop delivery system that ensures the safe handling of perchloroethylene and makes regulatory compliance easier. Practically any dry cleaning establishment can enjoy the advantages of the Closed Loop Delivery System.

• In the United States DOWPER solvent can be delivered in the tamper-proof SVR Closed-Loop Delivery System. Retrofit kits and installation guidelines are available for adding fittings to existing machines. Contact your Dow Representative for more information.
• In Europe: DOWPER and DOWPER Pure Power are available in the closed-loop SAFE-TAINER™ system through Dow’s wholly-owned subsidiary SAFECHEM, which specializes in the safe handling of solvents for the cleaning industry. Contact a representative for more information.

Products Available	Application/Description	Regional Availability
DOWPER™ Solvent	Dry cleaning. The preferred product for dry cleaning worldwide. Non flammable. This high purity solvent features low viscosity and surface tension that enhances penetration of fibers and dissolves most organic stains. Quick evaporation leaves no residue or odors. Safe for fabrics and dyes commonly found in the fashion industry.	North America, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East, Africa, India, Latin America
DOWPER Pure Power Solvent	Dry cleaning. This efficient solvent has high purity and is nonflammable. Its distribution in small volume refillable containers allows for safe handling and ease of recycling. Designed for fifth generation dry cleaning machines.	Europe, Middle East, Africa, India

®™^* Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company ("Dow") or an affiliated company of Dow