Why Biodegradable Degreasers Are Changing Industrial Cleaning

Introduction

In today's industrial world, cleaning efficiency and environmental responsibility are no longer mutually exclusive. As industries face growing pressure to reduce their ecological footprint, minimize hazardous exposure, and comply with strict environmental regulations, one product category is leading the change: biodegradable degreasers.

Traditionally, degreasers have been known for their strong chemical fumes, toxic runoff, and flammability risks. But the latest generation of eco-friendly degreasers offers comparable cleaning power without the hazardous downsides.

At GZ Industrial Supplies, we supply both traditional and modern degreasing solutions. This article will explore why more industries are shifting toward biodegradable degreasers, how they work, and what benefits they bring to your workplace, equipment, and the environment.

Key Takeaway

Eco-Friendly Performance: Biodegradable degreasers break down naturally without polluting water, soil, or air—making them safer for the environment compared to traditional solvent-based cleaners.
Worker Health & Safety: These degreasers are typically non-toxic, non-flammable, and free from harsh chemicals, reducing health risks like skin irritation, respiratory issues, and long-term exposure hazards for industrial workers.
Effective on Tough Grease and Oil: Modern biodegradable formulas rival traditional degreasers in cutting through heavy industrial grime, machinery oil, and carbon deposits—without compromising cleaning power.
Regulatory Compliance: Many industries are now required to meet stricter environmental and occupational health standards. Biodegradable degreasers help businesses stay compliant with local and international safety regulations.

What Are Biodegradable Degreasers?

A biodegradable degreaser is a cleaning agent formulated to break down grease, oils, and industrial dirt using compounds that can be naturally decomposed by microorganisms. Unlike petroleum-based solvents or harsh caustics, these products are made with ingredients that won’t pollute water systems, soil, or air.

Key Features:

Water-based or plant-based surfactants
Free from phosphates, petroleum solvents, and chlorinated hydrocarbons
Designed to biodegrade rapidly after use
Non-toxic to humans, aquatic life, and surrounding environments

Many biodegradable degreasers today are designed to meet OECD and EPA biodegradability standards, ensuring they decompose within days or weeks after disposal.

How They Work Compared to Traditional Degreasers

Traditional degreasers such as mineral spirits, diesel, or kerosene rely on harsh solvents to dissolve tough grease and oil. While effective, these substances often:

Emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs
Require special ventilation and disposal measures
Leave behind toxic residue or oily films

In contrast, biodegradable degreasers break down grease by:

Emulsifying oils into water-soluble droplets
Lifting dirt from surfaces using gentle surfactants
Rinsing clean without staining or residue

They’re safe to use on metal, plastic, rubber, paint, and even food-processing equipment—depending on the formula.

The Problem with Conventional Degreasers

Despite their popularity, conventional degreasers come with serious risks for both workers and the environment.

Downsides Include:

Toxic exposure: Can cause headaches, dizziness, or long-term organ damage with repeated use
Flammability: High risk near heat, machinery, or open flames
Environmental harm: Non-biodegradable runoff can poison waterways and soil
Disposal challenges: Often classified as hazardous waste
Strict regulatory compliance: Violations can lead to heavy fines or shutdowns

These risks make it harder for companies to meet HSE goals, pass inspections, or achieve ISO 14001 certification.

Benefits of Using Biodegradable Degreasers

Switching to biodegradable degreasers isn’t just a green trend, it’s a practical, cost-effective, and safety-enhancing decision. Here are the top benefits that industrial users are seeing:

Environmentally Friendly

Biodegradable degreasers break down naturally into non-toxic byproducts, reducing the risk of soil and water contamination.
Safe to dispose of through regular wastewater systems in many cases (check local regulations).
Contribute to reduced chemical footprint, aligning with sustainability goals and green certifications.

Ideal for environmentally sensitive areas like marine docks, agriculture, and food production zones.

Improved Worker Safety

Lower toxicity means reduced risk of skin irritation, respiratory issues, or eye damage.
Typically non-flammable, allowing safer storage and usage even near heat sources.
Can be used without heavy-duty PPE, especially in well-ventilated areas.

This makes biodegradable degreasers a good fit for settings with frequent human interaction or limited safety infrastructure—such as schools, hotels, hospitals, and urban workshops.

Long-Term Cost Efficiency

While initial costs may be slightly higher, you save money over time due to:

Fewer workplace incidents
Lower insurance and compliance costs
No need for special storage or hazardous waste disposal

Reduces the chance of equipment corrosion and repainting from overly harsh chemicals

Regulatory Compliance Made Easier

Many Nigerian industries are now expected to meet:

NESREA environmental discharge guidelines
NAFDAC safe handling regulations
ISO 14001 environmental management standards
And industry-specific HSE codes (oil & gas, food, marine, aviation)

Switching to biodegradable degreasers puts your business ahead of future audits and international partnerships especially for exporters.

Where Biodegradable Degreasers Excel

Biodegradable degreasers are not just safer, they’re versatile and highly effective across a range of industrial environments.

Top Use Cases:

Automotive workshops – degreasing engines, gearboxes, brakes
Food & beverage plants – cleaning conveyors, tools, non-contact areas
Marine & offshore rigs – safe near water bodies and pump stations
Power plants & substations – cleaning transformers, turbines, insulators
Construction equipment maintenance – restoring machinery onsite
Manufacturing floors – oil-stained floors, assembly lines, tools

Their wide compatibility makes them suitable for metal, rubber, plastic, concrete, and painted surfaces.

What to Look for in a Good Biodegradable Degreaser

Not all “green” degreasers are made equal. Some may be labeled “eco-friendly” but still contain irritating compounds or leave behind residue.

Key Qualities to Consider:

Certified Biodegradability: Look for products compliant with OECD 301 or EPA Safer Choice standards
Non-toxic and non-corrosive: Should be safe for skin contact and a wide range of surfaces
No phosphates, solvents, or caustics: Truly green degreasers don’t rely on hazardous ingredients
Effective at room temperature: Saves energy and expands usability
Water-rinseable or no-rinse formulas: Leaves no oily film or buildup
Safe for metals, plastic, rubber, paint, and food surfaces (if applicable)

Product Spotlight: Epochem 501 Antirust Degreaser

One of the leading biodegradable degreasers in Nigeria is the Epochem 501 Antirust Degreaser—available now on Tikweld.com.

Features & Benefits:

Dual-action formula – Removes grease and prevents rust on metal surfaces
Biodegradable and water-rinseable – Eco-safe and efficient
Non-toxic, non-flammable, and phosphate-free
Suitable for use on tools, machine parts, electrical panels, vehicles, floors, and marine equipment
Ideal for industries prioritizing sustainability and compliance

Epochem 501 is widely used in factories, refineries, workshops, and marine operations across Nigeria.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are biodegradable degreasers as effective as solvent-based ones?

Yes. Products like Epochem 501 offer comparable cleaning power without the safety and environmental hazards of traditional degreasers.

2. Can I use them on engines and mechanical parts?

Absolutely. They’re effective on engines, turbines, motors, gearboxes, and more.

3. Are these degreasers safe for food-related equipment?

Many biodegradable degreasers are food-safe (non-toxic, residue-free), but always check the product label for NSF or food-grade certification.

4. How should I dispose of used biodegradable degreasers?

Many can be rinsed into drains if not heavily contaminated. Still, always follow local disposal guidelines and SDS instructions.

5. Do they require special PPE?

No. Basic gloves and goggles are usually sufficient, but it's good practice to read the label.

Exploring Different Types of Industrial Cleaning Services

Industrial Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning: What's the Difference?

Epochem now Best industrial floor cleaning chemicals in Nigeria.

Conclusion

As industries in Nigeria and around the world move toward safer, more sustainable practices, biodegradable degreasers are proving to be a game-changer in industrial cleaning. They offer the powerful grease-cutting action businesses need—without the environmental and health hazards of traditional solvents. Whether you're managing a factory, automotive workshop, marine operation, or oil & gas facility, switching to eco-friendly degreasers means safer workspaces, regulatory compliance, and long-term savings.

Don’t wait until stricter environmental policies catch up—make the switch today. Explore high-performance biodegradable degreasers at GZ Industrial Supplies and take a step toward cleaner operations and a greener future.

May 26, 2025 GZ Team A