Solvent vs non-solvent – why does it matter?

One of the more prominent issues UK construction faces revolves around solvent use. Some have taken this very seriously, but there are still some unsure as to why.  

In this article, we will look to explain why solvent-free alternatives are a better bet and offer some insight as to why it’s such a pertinent issue.  

Why should we move away from solvent-based products? Why are they seen as bad?  

Solvent-based products are not bad per se, at least in terms of their effectiveness. In fact, they are extremely effective at what they are tasked with doing.  

For construction, this is normally around adhesion. It is no secret that a solvent-based adhesive will likely perform much better than a non-solvent adhesive. 

This has forced innovative creators to try and replicate solvent-based adhesives and to good effect too, as there are now plenty on the market that can do a very good job.  

But why should we put down solvent-based adhesives? The main reason is because of the negative environmental impact that comes with them.  

In short, they contribute towards air and water pollution as a result of the VOCs they release when used. VOCs are hazardous chemicals and can play a part in smog formation and water contamination.  

In addition, they can also pose risks to humans. If you are exposed to VOCs for prolonged periods of time, you can potentially suffer from breathing issues, nausea, headaches and more.  

As well as that, solvent-based adhesives are flammable, so an element of care will be needed to mitigate any fire risks. 

Can non-solvent-based products do the job though? 

 Yes, they can. However, as mentioned above, it likely will not perform to the same standard – but that doesn’t mean they can’t do the job to a very high level.  

As they are VOC-free as well, they will also be a lot safer to use. They are safer to be used around humans, they are better for the environment and they aren’t flammable, so it eliminates a fire risk.  

In addition, at a time when the construction world is moving away from solvent-based adhesives, solvent-free adhesives are likely to be used instead.  

The most popular ones on the market are there for good reason, as they can be trusted to deliver a comparably good performance to solvent-based products.  

A more sustainable future 

With the UK construction industry doing all it can to be more sustainable and environmentally conscious, be it through net zero or the types of products used, solvent-based adhesives are likely to become a thing of the past.  

In its place are products that are getting closer and closer to replicating the performance levels of non-solvent-adhesives, while also keeping the air cleaner.  

If you would like to see our range of solvent-free products, you can do so here.