The March 31, 2025 deadline for the 3M™ Novec™ and trichloroethylene (TCE) phase-out is right around the corner, and many manufacturers are still in search of viable replacement solvents. Due to regulatory and environmental concerns, 3M announced its exit from the fluorinated chemistry market, including the discontinuation of Novec™ vapor degreasing solvents.
Manufacturers relying on these solvents for precision cleaning, vapor degreasing, and industrial applications will need to identify and qualify alternative solvents that perform well and meet the appropriate safety and environmental standards.
Why is 3M™ Novec™ Being Discontinued?
In 2022, 3M announced that it would discontinue all fluorinated chemicals by the end of 2025, including Novec™ solvents. Many of these products contain PFAS chemicals (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which have raised concerns over their persistence in the environment and potential health risks.
Meanwhile, trichloroethylene (TCE) has also faced increasing regulatory scrutiny due to its classification as a hazardous air pollutant (HAP) and its links to serious health and environmental effects. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed a full ban on TCE under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), reinforcing the urgent need for manufacturers to phase out TCE-based solvents.
With March being just one month away, the time to switch to an alternative is now.
How to Choose a Replacement Solvent
Selecting a replacement for 3M™ Novec™ or TCE-based solvents isn’t as simple as finding a drop-in alternative. Plenty of factors must be considered to ensure the replacement meets performance and compliance requirements.
Here are seven key considerations when qualifying a Novec™ replacement:
- Cleaning Performance – Make sure the solvent effectively removes contaminants such as flux residues, greases, and particulates.
- Material Compatibility – Test for compatibility with metals, plastics, coatings, and elastomers to avoid damage.
- Environmental & Regulatory Compliance – The replacement solvent should be non-PFAS, low-VOC, non-ozone depleting, and free from hazardous air pollutants (HAPs).
- Safety Considerations – Choose a solvent that is nonflammable, non-toxic, and safe for workers.
- Equipment Compatibility – Confirm that the alternative works with existing vapor degreasing systems or ultrasonic cleaners.
- Residue-Free Evaporation – The solvent should evaporate completely without leaving behind residues that can affect performance.
- Long-Term Availability – Ensure that the replacement is not at risk for future regulatory bans and offers a reliable supply chain.
Techspray’s 3M™ Novec™ Replacement Solutions
Techspray offers high-performance alternatives to 3M™ Novec™ solvents that are designed to meet all seven qualifying considerations while maintaining full environmental compliance.
Our Recommended Vapor Degreaser Solvents:
| 3M Novec # | Techspray Replacements |
|---|---|
| 7100 | Precision-V 3710 |
| 71DA | Precision-V 371DA |
| 71DE | Precision-V 371DE |
| 71IPA | Precision-V 371IPA |
| 7200 | Precision-V 3720 |
| 72DA | Precision-V 372DA |
| 72DE | Precision-V 372DE |
| 7300 | Precision-V 3730 |
| 73DE | Precision-V 373DE |
These solvents provide fast-drying, residue-free performance and meet the latest environmental and safety regulations.
Act Now to Avoid Supply Chain Disruptions
The March 31, 2025 deadline is approaching quickly, and manufacturers should act fast and start testing replacement solvents now to avoid any production delays, compliance risks, and increased costs.
Make sure your operations are prepared with safe, effective, and compliant replacement solvents from Techspray! Contact us to get started.
Learn more about Techspray’s Novec™ replacement solutions and how to ensure a seamless transition here:
