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Dry Cleaning with liquid Carbon Dioxide (CO2), rather than suspected carcinogen perchlorethylene or highly flammable hydrocarbon/petroleum, is making an impact on the U.S. and European dry cleaning industry. CO2 is environmentally friendly, non-toxic and biodegradeable, requiring no hazardous waste removal, avoiding many taxes that are being imposed on "PERC" and petroleum processes. The temperatures attained in the CO2 dry cleaning machines are only in the range of 58°F to 65°F, so stains are less likely to set, cycle times are shorter (no drying needed!) and the process is much more gentle. It thus is very suitable for the cleaning of delicate fabrics such as silk, chiffon, and taffeta, while being equally effective on leathers, suedes and vinyls.
Linde plays multiple roles in this exciting new process. Linde offers the Washpoint System for sale or lease to the dry cleaner. The Washpoint System consists of CO2 delivery and distribution equipment. CO2 can be purchased from a Linde facility or an Industrial Gas Suppliers Alliance (IGSA) partner.
The most significant breakthrough that has really accelerated the program, is the development, manufacture and marketing of detergent and spotters specifically formulated to solubilize with CO2. These products are marketed under the Washpoint brand such as Washpoint detergent and Washpoint HydroSpot for water-based stains and Washpoint LipoSpot for oil and grease-based stains.
With these products, as well as technical expertise, installation and maintenance services, Linde is helping to revolutionize the dry cleaning industry in the U.S. This industry has more than 35,000 dry cleaners, ranging from industrial giants to the small mom and pop cleaners located in nearly every neighborhood or strip mall. |
