Performance-Based Solvent Replacement for NMP and Other High-Risk Solvents
Sta-Sol® ESS 301 is a high-performance, low-VOC solvent blend designed for efficient removal of resins, urethanes, and tough soils from parts, tools, and equipment.
Formulated as part of our EnviroSolvent Series (ESS), ESS 301 provides equivalent solvency to N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) without the associated safety, environmental, or regulatory concerns.
This modified ester-based system delivers excellent cleaning and stripping power while remaining non-flammable, low odor, and readily biodegradable—making it a safer and more sustainable alternative for a variety of industrial applications.
Key Applications
Sta-Sol® ESS 301 is used across multiple manufacturing and maintenance environments, including:
- Paint stripping and graffiti removal
- Urethane and resin cleanup in parts washers, soak tanks, and line flush operations
- Co-solvent blending for formulators seeking flexible solvent systems
- Aqueous emulsions when combined with surfactants
- Industrial hard surface cleaning and degreasing
- General maintenance and process cleaning applications where performance and safety are both priorities
Performance and Solvency Profile
Sta-Sol® ESS 301 demonstrates high solvency power comparable to NMP. Using the Hansen Solubility Parameter (HSPiP) system, the relative distance (Ra) between ESS 301 and NMP is 0.71, indicating near-equivalent solvency performance.
By comparison, common NMP alternatives such as dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), dimethylformamide (DMF), and ethyl lactate have Ra values greater than 4—significantly less compatible.
| Solvent | δD | δP | δH | Ra (vs. NMP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NMP | 18 | 12.3 | 7.2 | — |
| Sta-Sol® ESS 301 | 18 | 12.2 | 6.5 | 0.71 |
| Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) | 18.4 | 16.4 | 10.2 | 5.14 |
| Benzyl Alcohol (BA) | 18.4 | 6.3 | 13.7 | 8.88 |
| Dimethyl Formamide (DMF) | 17.4 | 13.7 | 11.3 | 4.50 |
| Ethyl Lactate | 16 | 7.6 | 12.5 | 8.14 |
These results demonstrate that Sta-Sol® ESS 301 can directly replace NMP in many formulations and cleaning systems, especially when targeting uncured to partially cured polymeric resins, while meeting modern safety and environmental goals.
Environmental, Health & Safety Attributes
Sta-Sol® ESS 301 is designed to help formulators and manufacturers comply with evolving regulatory and sustainability standards. Its EHS profile includes:
- Low VOC and low odor formulation
- Readily biodegradable
- Non-flammable and non-corrosive
- Not regulated under DOT transport standards
- Not listed under CERCLA/SARA, SARA 313, RCRA hazardous waste, or CWA hazardous substances
- No components listed under California Proposition 65
These attributes make ESS 301 an ideal choice for formulators and users seeking safer solvent systems that align with environmental and workplace safety initiatives.
Typical Physical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance/Odor | Clear liquid, mild sweet odor |
| Vapor Pressure @ 20°C | 0.02 – 0.05 Torr |
| Flash Point | 240°F |
| Specific Gravity (20°C) | 1.13 |
| Boiling Point Range | 216 – 242°F |
Packaging and Storage
Sta-Sol® ESS 301 is available in:
- 5-gallon pails (40 lb net)
- 55-gallon poly drums (500 lb net)
- Bulk quantities upon request
Store in a cool, dry location away from excessive heat and humidity. The product remains stable under normal storage conditions.
For compatibility questions, contact our technical team.
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