What’s in your brake cleaner?
Look, I get it: brake cleaner is incredibly effective. There’s a reason for that—it contains potent chemicals that are ideal for messy auto parts, but not the human body. Although formulas differ, let’s examine some of the brake cleaner ingredients that you should know.
The first is tetrachloroethylene (TCE), also known as percholoroethylene (PCE), a potent solvent that dissolves grease very well but is also a recognized neurotoxin and likely carcinogenic to humans.
Second is n-hexane, a neurotoxin that, when exposed at high levels or for an extended period of time, can result in peripheral neuropathy, or damage to the nerves.
The third is toluene, a popular solvent that can cause headaches, dizziness, and even cognitive impairment by affecting the central nervous system.
Starting late last year, the EPA finalized rules to ban or severely restrict the use of certain chemicals commonly found in chlorinated brake cleaners, specifically trichloroethylene/PCE, due to its status as a known carcinogen and links to various health issues. The bans are being phased in, with most consumer uses and many commercial uses being prohibited.