NASA's Engineering and Safety Center has embarked on a comprehensive evaluation to find safer alternatives to dichloromethane, the traditional adhesive solvent used in bonding transparent polymeric materials. The move comes as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is cracking down on the use of toxic chemicals under its Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), which could have far-reaching implications for critical spaceflight and experimental systems.
The assessment aims to identify substitutes that can replace dichloromethane, a substance subject to regulatory scrutiny. As TSCA restrictions tighten, NASA's focus is on finding safer options to ensure the reliability and integrity of its polymeric bonding processes. The research seeks innovative solutions to mitigate potential risks associated with the use of hazardous materials in sensitive applications.
The effort underscores NASA's commitment to adopting environmentally friendly practices while maintaining the safety and performance standards required for its critical operations. By exploring alternative adhesives and solvents, the agency can minimize its ecological footprint while preserving the effectiveness of its bonding processes, ensuring the success of future missions.
The assessment aims to identify substitutes that can replace dichloromethane, a substance subject to regulatory scrutiny. As TSCA restrictions tighten, NASA's focus is on finding safer options to ensure the reliability and integrity of its polymeric bonding processes. The research seeks innovative solutions to mitigate potential risks associated with the use of hazardous materials in sensitive applications.
The effort underscores NASA's commitment to adopting environmentally friendly practices while maintaining the safety and performance standards required for its critical operations. By exploring alternative adhesives and solvents, the agency can minimize its ecological footprint while preserving the effectiveness of its bonding processes, ensuring the success of future missions.