A life cycle inventory and tradeoff analysis vapor degreasing versus aqueous cleaning

The life cycle inventory and tradeoff analysis conducted in this study explores the impacts of vapor degreasing with 1,1,1 Trichloroethane versus aqueous cleaning. To perform the assessment of tradeoffs, an impact analysis matrix was developed and employed. Results show that impact comparisons made at the local or shop level cannot be extrapolated to predict impacts on a global level. While vapor degreasers may use less energy than an aqueous cleaning system to operate, the production of chlorinated solvent is a major energy consumer which offsets any advantage