New, Non-Toxic Washer Fluid Released
by Trey Granger
Published on August 24th, 2009
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Daimer® Industries launched a new line of plant-based windshield-washer fluid that will biodegrade by more than 90 percent in less than a month.
Eco-Green® washer fluid is free of solvents, chlorine and phosphates, and does not release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air when applied to windshields. The company is marketing the new washer toward large fleets and others in the transportation industry. It comes in a ready-to-use option or a concentrated option that consumers can dilute with water.
The new plant-based washer fluid will biodegrade more than 90 percent in less than one month. Photo: Flickr/marctonysmith
Washer fluid is one of the less-discussed car fluids when it comes to environmental impact. However, it is typically made with a toxic form of alcohol known as methanol, which can be deadly if ingested. Even homemade washer fluid recipes suggest adding alcohol and detergent.
Detergent is a known contributor to water pollution because phosphates form on the surface of water and increase the presence of algae through over-fertilization, which can rapidly reduce water quality. For this reason, commercial car washes are required to drain wastewater into sewer systems where it is treated.
Daimer already offers other eco-friendly car fluids, such as a car wash formula, a degreaser and carpet cleaners under the Eco-Green brand.
Those looking to dispose of unneeded car fluids should search for a household hazardous waste program in their area.
