What is NMP Used For?

What is an NMP

N-Methylpyrrolidone, also known as NMP or 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, is a petrochemical solvent found in many diverse products and practical uses in different industries. NMP has commonly been used in the petrochemical industry, with its high solvency and high boiling point, making it a popular option for paints and paint strippers. However, like many petrochemical solvents, NMP releases pollutants into the air if not properly recycled after use. The volatile nature and health risks of solvent exposure caused a demand for greener, safer alternatives.

Below we will discuss the different uses for NMP, how different industries use NMP, and some alternatives manufacturers can use to make their products that use NMP safer.

NMP Solvent Uses

What is NMP Used For? NMP can be found in a variety of applications such as adhesives, cleaners, sealants, cosmetics, dyes, inks, and pesticides. However, the average consumer will likely encounter it in paint strippers and coating removers in many stores around the country. 

Depending on the industry, some work directly with manufacturing products using solvents, while some may be exposed to working with the products themselves. Below we list some different instances of solvent exposure in different work environments.

Industrial Solvent Uses

Solvents of all kinds are commonly used in manufacturing and many other industries such as pharmaceutical and automotive. It is likely industrial uses include the highest level of exposure to NMP. We list some common uses of NMP in industrial uses below.

-     Processing agents

-     Paint and coating removal additives

-     Cleaning agents

-     Electronics

Commercial Solvents Uses

There are many different possibilities for NMP solvents to appear in commercial businesses. Some products are more industry-specific, while some are likely found in any type of business. A few examples include:

-     Automotive industries such as body shops and garages. Products used for paints, wheel stripping, restoration, and 

      maintenance

-     Nail, hair, and spa salons, or anywhere nail polish remover is used

-     Construction and contracting industries using coatings, paints, binders, and sealants

-     Furniture refinishing

-     Cleaning products, both generic cleaners such as floor cleaners and polishes, and other specialized equipment cleaners

-     Graffiti and coating removal

 Household Solvent Uses

Industrial and commercial industries working with NMP aren’t the only ones affected. Average consumers are also exposed to NMP, since it can be found in numerous household products. Some items that may feature NMP solvents include the following.

-     Paints and paint strippers

-     Wood and furniture strippers

-     Floor and surface cleaners

-     Leather treatments

-     Makeup and cosmetic products such as mascara and hair dyes

-     Clothing and shoes

-     Beddings and linens

-     Adhesives for craft projects

-     Flea treatments and other pet care products

The presence of NMP in so many common products may be alarming to the typical uninformed consumer. Luckily, many companies are completely phasing out the use of NMP now that many have found ways to replace it with safer options. 

How to Handle NMPs

Proper handling of NMP (N-Methylpyrrolidone) is crucial to ensure safety and minimize environmental impact. Given its widespread use in various industries, understanding and implementing best practices can significantly reduce health risks and environmental concerns.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Ventilation

Always use personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling NMP, including gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing to prevent skin and eye contact. In industrial settings, appropriate respiratory protection is recommended, especially in poorly ventilated areas or when NMP is heated, as it can release harmful fumes. Ensure that NMP is used in well-ventilated areas. Good ventilation helps disperse vapors, reducing the concentration in the air and the risk of inhalation. In enclosed spaces, use local exhaust ventilation systems to capture and remove airborne NMP before it can spread.

Storage and Spill Response

When storing NMP, keep it in tightly sealed containers to prevent leaks and evaporation. Store these containers in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and sources of ignition. Proper labeling and regular inspection of storage areas are essential to prevent accidental spills or exposure. In case of a spill, quickly contain and clean up using absorbent materials, and dispose of the waste according to local regulations. Avoid letting NMP enter drains or waterways, as it can be harmful to aquatic life.

Employee Training and Safer Alternatives

Training employees on the proper handling, storage, and disposal of NMP is critical. Regular safety training sessions ensure that all personnel are aware of the risks and know how to protect themselves and the environment. Consider using safer alternatives to NMP wherever possible. Transitioning to greener solvents can reduce the risks associated with NMP, contributing to a safer workplace and a cleaner environment.

By following these guidelines, you can handle NMP safely and responsibly, mitigating its potential hazards while maintaining its effectiveness in various applications.

Alternative Solvents to Substitute NMP

As you can now see, NMP has many uses, but it’s not the only option. Many companies in the industries listed above are transitioning to using greener, safer alternatives to the petroleum-based solvent. More and more consumers are keeping an eye out for products using organic solvents, so they do not need to worry about solvent exposure risks in their homes. In fact, NMP is even being banned in many countries due to the environmental and safety concerns of the solvent.

Below we list a few replacements for NMP that contain no hazardous ingredients or air pollutants. 

Vertec Bio ELSOL NMPR

First on our list of NMP alternatives is VertecBio ELSOL NMPR. It includes no environmentally hazardous ingredients, no hazardous air pollutants (HAPs), or other harmful substances. It is also incredibly well suited for replacing NMP in cleaning applications.

VertecBio ELSOL NMPR is also especially effective for cleaning polyurethanes and as a solvent for paints, coatings, and ink formulations. You do not need to sacrifice cleaning power by using a substitute, and ELSOL NMPR offers just that.

Vertec Bio ELSOL NMPRx3

VertecBio ELSOL NMPR3 is another bio-based replacement for NMP, with a versatile solvent blend for formulating, and ideal solvency for paint, coatings, and ink formulations.

Additionally, custom blends are available to ensure you have a solvent that is ideally suited for your application and can perform optimally.

These alternatives both eliminate health risks due to using 100 percent biodegradable, safe, and non-carcinogenic ingredients made from renewable sources. This means there’s low vapor pressure and high loading capacity. 

Vertec BioSolvents – Finding Better Uses with NMP Replacements

At Vertec Biosolvents, we want to improve your application process through sustainable and high-performing bio-based solvents. When it comes to NMP formulations, not only can we help you choose safer options for both your workers and the planet, but we can also help you choose formulations and products which are just as effective and powerful as their petroleum counterparts. 

From NMP and on, wherever petroleum solvents are used, we can provide an alternative. Contact our team today to discuss your needs. We look forward to speaking with you.