Fueling Controversy: The Dark Truth of Using Diesel as a Solvent

A solvent is a substance – typically in a liquid state – that is capable of dissolving, suspending, or extracting materials without inducing a chemical reaction. The effectiveness of a solvent is determined by the degree of chemical similarities between the solvent and solute. For example, a polar solute (a substance with an asymmetrical chemical structure, inducing partial positive and negative charges) will dissolve most effectively in a polar solvent with an analogous chemical structure, and a nonpolar solute (a substance with a symmetrical chemical structure) will dissolve most effectively in a nonpolar solvent with an analogous chemical structure.

Bitumen is a nonpolar hydrocarbon binding agent used in asphalt, and is readily broken down by diesel fuel – which is also nonpolar and possesses a similar, shorter chemical structure. As a result, many companies use diesel to clean asphalt-ridden truck beds and equipment. The accessibility and cost of diesel are additional benefits to its effectiveness as a solvent for Bitumen. However, these benefits are eclipsed by both safety and environmental risks.

What Are the Dangers of Diesel?

Diesel’s low flash point causes it to combust in the presence of an ignition source at temperatures of roughly 126 degrees Fahrenheit, making it an explosion risk. Diesel also contains several toxic compounds, which are pernicious to both human health and the environment.

Upon contact, diesel causes skin irritation. When ingested, symptoms include but are not limited to nausea, vomiting, central nervous system effects akin to alcohol intoxication, seizures, respiratory failure, and death.

Prolonged exposure to the carcinogenic compounds present in diesel can alter DNA structure and cause cancer. As diesel is not biodegradable, its toxicity to aquatic organisms and long-term adverse effects on the environment are chronic.

What Other Options Are Available?

Conversely, PavePro Green is an asphalt solvent whose Safety Data Sheet (SDS) reports an elevated flash point, non-reactivity under normal conditions, non-hazardous nature according to OSHA standards (fully lacking carcinogenic and toxic compounds), and environmental safety (despite biodegradability, disposal must still be in compliance with environmental protection and waste disposal legislation).

There are plenty of other asphalt solvents available on the market, but it is important to seek non-volatile, non-hazardous, biodegradable options such as Simple Green and some citrus-based solvents. SDSs for the solvents we have discussed are accessible below.

To learn more about removing asphalt residue safely and in compliance with regulatory requirements, please contact Walden at 516-588-6859.

Safety Data Sheets

Diesel SDS: https://www.globalp.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/SDS_Diesel_Fuel_Final.pdf

PavePro Green SDS: https://irp.cdn-website.com/21b19316/files/uploaded/PavePro%20Green.pdf

Simple Green SDS: https://cdn.simplegreen.com/downloads/SDS_EN-US_SimpleGreenAllPurposeCleaner.pdf