Clean Break

Database can answer your cleaning questions, just ask.

2012-01-05T09:16:00.001-05:00

From time to time we get requests for finding safer cleaning products. Many times these questions can be answered by using our on-line test results database, CleanerSolutions.

The latest question:

From Scotland:
I'm advising a community group in Stirling who have been told that a trike unit for cleaning such stock will be situated near their houses. From a whole range of angles - green chemistry, green jobs ( more and safer jobs from not using/reducing solvent use) , water pollution, general toxics use reduction, reduced occupational hazards to workers in the unit - it doesn't seem to make sense to clean this way. Would you happen to know about the USA alternatives to solvent use for cleaning railway rolling stock? Has TURI produced any reports on this or do you know of any good contacts who might be able to help me on the subject?

Our Response:
We have done many projects replacing TCE. Here is a link to a couple of larger projects: Results 1, Results 2
This link lists the products that we have successfully tested for replacement of TCE for all soil types: Results 3
This is a somewhat shorter list for oils and grease removal: Results 4

And a question from Washington State:
We're looking to clean some ceramic parts that were held in place using Crystalbond. We had FTIR done on some parts that showed signs of staining after heating in a vacuum but the results were inconclusive. I did a search for Crystalbond FTIR and your site came up. I have two questions in your client 155 project 2 you mention FTIR showing both toluene and or Crystalbond. I was wondering if it would be possible to get a copy of the FTIR and see if that's what we're seeing. My second question has to do with the cleaning agents you discuss in C155 part 1. I've been looking for the DuPont DBE-4 (which you list as 99.6% effective) but haven't found it available in an over the counter solution, is there a brand-name product I should be looking for? Also, though it's not mentioned in your report, is there any chance the results were compared with Acetone (typically used solvent) and/or Crystalbond 509 solvent? We're going to try bulk cleaning with the Shopmaster RC you recommend (replacing the acetone currently used) but would like to try the DBE-4 for final cleaning.

Our Response:
Glad that the site provided some useful information for you. You may not be able to find DBE-4 on its own. We were informed later on that the solvent is normally sold to manufacturers of products as an ingredient. The Shopmaster RC does have a DBE mixture in it and may be the closest you can get.
Testing did include Crystalbond 590 S Stripper (see attached reports 155-4, 155-5).
The FT-IR may not be so helpful but I have included the report and image (report 155-6)

Ask your cleaning solvent substitute question today!

Green and Clean: Achieving the Best of Both Worlds

2012-01-03T09:30:00.000-05:00

Here is a link to a recent article on effective green cleaning.

TURI Lab Testing Program in the News

2011-11-08T09:24:00.000-05:00

Green Works® Concentrated Cleaners were tested by the International Executive Housekeepers Association's (IEHA) High Performance Cleaning Product (HPCP) Testing Program in conjunction with the University of MA Lowell TURI Lab. Green Works® Concentrated Cleaners met the HPCP program's rigorous standards and proved the product line's efficacy. Read more

Green Cleaning In Hospitals

2011-11-03T08:45:00.000-04:00

Check out this paper on green cleaning in hospitals:

Under the guidance of an expert advisory group, the project team at CHD conducted the study in three steps. Literature review, phone interview and questionnaire survey were the major methods used in the study.

The paper is the ninth paper in the Health Care Research Collaborative’s monograph series providing research and analysis of factors influencing patient, worker and environmental safety and sustainability in the health care sector. The Research Collaborative was initiated by Health Care Without Harm (HCWH), an international nonprofit coalition that promotes environmental responsibility in health care.

CleanerSolutions Usage in FY 2011

2011-10-07T09:53:00.000-04:00

Did you know that our lab's testing database was visited 26,873 for July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2011. Were you one of them? If so, thanks. If not, please check it out!

TURI Lab Monthly Update of Projects –September 2011

2011-10-07T09:47:00.000-04:00

End User Testing
• Metal working facility – met with them. They are going to get smaller degreaser and use nPB in it. Will decrease solvent usage for their one customer who requires it to about 50 gallons or less a year. Got them to commit to working on aqueous solution also. Talked to OTA about going to talk to them about water conservation. Will set a meeting end of October or November.
• Remanufacturing-repair facility – Did research on paint spray gun cleaning and sent them systems and cleaners to look into.
• Microelectronics – Cleaning of pallets on hold there. Thanked us for work and will be in touch.
• Sheriff’s office – Went in with vendor in Sept. They bought a steam unit to clean bathrooms and cells etc. Bought one unit and plan to buy 3 more to reduce chemicals used. Also another vendor is redoing their laundry and cleaning chemicals to decrease toxicity and save them about 40%.
• Plating company - Met with them. Saw their adapted dry cleaning machines that use PCE to clean. Have reduced their TCE use over 90%. They have a trivalent chrome line and a hex line. They helped get me some time on NESF agenda and wasn’t to be involved with supply chain work and CE conferences if we need them.
• Plating company – Helped TURI Lab get on NESF agenda and has invited anyone from TURA to come see their operation. Also willing to work with me on information for case studies, supply chain work and alternatives as well as CE conference.
• Capacitor Mfr - Had one meeting with manufacturing and operations VP. They are committed to switch. Will also need to bring OTA in down there. Setting up a meeting with vendors and them to see the space and operation to start looking at cleaning lines. Researching cleaners and things to do with project.
• Optics Mfr - went into visit to see cleaning system and talk to them about why it isn’t working for one of their optic lines. Have worked with them to indentify problem, was in there with vendor this week. Have new action items for issues. Narrowing project scope down. Going to try a wetting agent in rinses and also work on redesigning racks for their optics used in cleaning.

Small Contract Work
Ongoing or Recently Completed
• Testing equipment for steam vapor cleaning. Evaluating range of applications for cleaning and disinfecting.
• Providing technical support and formulation development/evaluation
• Green product line testing for IEHA HPCP
• Evaluating ways to demonstrate that traditional cleaners can leave behind residues. Determine effect on resoiling
In the Works
• Soil removal testing (and maybe microbial testing) done on a no touch system. Have unit and will be finalizing project scope.
• Met with group about testing and future collaboration for improving housekeeping procedures and products
• General product performance testing (industrial)
• Chemical supplier testing of ingredients for I&I applications

Grants
• SHE seed grant proposal for Cleaning in Home Health Care. – Margaret Quinn, Nancy Goodyear. The proposed project will develop methods and collect pilot data to evaluate the health and environmental impacts of the use of cleaning products in the home healthcare (HHC) setting.
• University Research – disinfection collaboration with Dr. Goodyear. Performance collaboration with Dr. Nagarajan surfactant project
• Providing support/training for TURN Grant - Montachusett Opportunity Council. We have had some calls with them about workshop in November and are working n materials and presentation

Database Web Tool
• DIY site – reworking layout and working on fine tuning content
• Completing work on P2OASys updates.

Disinfection Testing
• Met on 26th with electrolyzed water equipment and Dr. Nancy Goodyear UML. Saw new unit and talked about moving forward with testing.
• Steam Vapor cleaning continues
• “Green” disinfectants to be investigated for performance

Do-it-Yourself Cleaning Recipes
• Student has been working on videos for recipe making and performance testing

Outreach
• Went to Washington DC to State of Green Cleaning conference to present on HPCP program with IEHA. Great reception on presentation. Great visibility for lab and will feed off this at ISSA in October.
• Working on new brochures and posters for lab
• Meeting about NESF and NEFA conferences coming in November and materials needed and information we want together while attending and doing a table at each. Have sent follow up emil on action items from that meeting
• Greening your facility fact sheet being worked on still. Internal review ongoing
• Did educational table at Westford Farmers Market
• Going to Dept of Corrections Visit as part of TUR Task Force initiative
• Asked to speak on toxics in Wenham this spring
• CIRI Conference in November 9-11
• MOC workshop Nov 15
• Article on Green and Clean for October issue of ICS magazine
• IEHA-TURI HPCP flyer for ISSA show

TURI Projects
• TURI Web redesign
• PCE alternatives report ongoing. Trainings for planning coming up
• Working on matching grant possibly with capacitor manufacturer and maybe demo site with them or someone doing alternatives to cad or hexchrome plating
• TUR Planner course assistance on Alternatives Assessment section. Finalizing details for event
• NESF event in November will talk to companies about metal finishing and who is interested in that and supply chain work. Talked to internally at TURI about how to work together to reach large companies how to capitalize with smaller MA companies connections with TURI Lab.

Lab General
• New training docs and SOPS being worked on
• Students
• Getting products in database and put away, updating inventory, database project of checking vendor contact information
• Vendors being contacted for new samples

TURI Lab Monthly Update of Projects – July/August 2011

2011-10-07T09:38:00.000-04:00

End User Testing
• Sign manufacturer – Have found a cleaner they think may work on red metals. We will test that here or onsite with them. Also still looking for a low temp clear coat for red metals.
• LED manufacturer – Switching to n butyl acetate. Will visit when done and work on case study
• Electromagnetic Materials – Was asked to come back and help with a cleaning issue. Smell of a cleaner for some of their electronics is bothering worker in next office. Went and did site visit. Cleaned parts and am sending them back for their inspection. Then we will move on with odor testing.
• Metal working facility – connected with them during TCE calls and they have filled out test request form and have invited me to visit and talk about alternatives and work with them. Already talking about nPB. Will try to steer them away.
• Remanufacturing-repair facility – isocyanate painting adopted by company based on customer request. Sent them to a consultant to work on spray booth.
• Microelectronics – Visited with company and picked up pallets. Cleaned them in lab, going back to talk to them about if they are clean enough and work to develop cleaning process.
• Sheriffs office – Visiting again with vendor. If they connect and like product then project for laundry will hand off to vendor. Vendor is on MA EPP list and has worked with other correctional facilities in the state.
• Plating company - going to meet with them to see their cleaning process and see if they can get out of using TCE
•Plating company - invited to visit and see their operation and also invited to work with upcoming NESF conference
• Capacitor Mfr - They are ready to work on nPB to Aqueous. Will be discussing time lines, grants, prices, space, capital and type of cleaning

Small Contract Work
Ongoing or Recently Completed
• Testing equipment for steam vapor cleaning (IEHA connection). Evaluating range of applications for cleaning and disinfecting.
• Providing technical support and formulation development/evaluation
• Green product line testing for IEHA HPCP
• Hand washing evaluation
• GS 34 testing
• Evaluating ways to demonstrate that traditional cleaners can leave behind residues. Determine effect on resoiling
• Vacuum vs. dust mop evaluation results submitted to company
In the Works
• Soil removal testing (and maybe microbial testing) done on a no touch system. Have unit and will be finalizing project scope.
• Green Seal GS 37 testing for natural cleaning products
• Discussion with IEHA and company on floor cleaning process evaluations. Will include ergonomic evaluation. Waiting on approval from front office.
• Discussion on working with lab to create a “consumer report” like partnership where the lab would provide testing evaluations for their products and a place to direct consumers for comparisons to other products via the CleanerSolutions Site

Grants
• SHE seed grant proposal funded for Cleaning in Home Health Care. – Margaret Quinn, Nancy Goodyear. The proposed project will develop methods and collect pilot data to evaluate the health and environmental impacts of the use of cleaning products in the home healthcare (HHC) setting.
• TURI University Research – disinfection collaboration with Dr. Goodyear. Performance collaboration with Dr. Nagarajan surfactant project
• Providing support/training for TURN Grant - Montachusett Opportunity Council

Database Web Tool
• DIY site – reworking layout
• Student completing work on P2OASys updates

Disinfection Testing
• Meeting scheduled for 9-26-11 to discuss status of project with electrolyzed water system
• Steam-vapor testing – underway
• Received two grants for disinfection evaluations

Do-it-Yourself Cleaning Recipes
• Working on videos for recipe making and performance testing

Outreach
• TURI Lab asked to represent IEHA at ISSA State of Green Cleaning conference in September in VA.
• TURI Lab asked to speak at IEHA meeting October 18th
• Working on new Lab and possibly TCE, metal finishing or HHS help brochure
• Working within TURI for cadmium, hex chrome and TCE plans for Fall and for NESF conference. Want to use this conference to help our work with HHS substances, stakeholder work and to get out factsheets.
• Greening your facility fact sheet being worked on

TURI Projects
• TURI Web redesign
• Will review PCE alternatives report and go to meeting this month
• Working on matching grant possibly with Capacitor Mfr and maybe demo site with them or someone doing alternatives to cad or hexchrome plating.
• TUR Planner course assistance on Alternatives Assessment section. Met with other TURI staff to discuss next steps

Lab General
• New training docs and SOPS need to be worked on students
• Getting products in database and put away, updating inventory, database project of checking vendor contact information

TURI Lab Monthly Update of Projects – June 2011

2011-07-11T09:54:00.000-04:00

End User Testing
• Sign manufacturer – Project on hold due to space restrictions. For now they have no room to put in new cleaning line. They are still using lab as a resource, asked about green certifications recently.
• LED manufacturer – Trying to get two new engineers up to speed in their new jobs. Will revisit in August.
• Electromagnetic Materials – Met with them. They were interested in using tert-butyl acetate as a cleaner. They like it and saw it was VOC exempt by the EPA. Waiting on the response from DEP.
• Metal working facility – Working on meeting with them on project moving them from nPB to aqueous. They haven’t got back but all indications are that they are willing and ready. Also trying to see if we can do a case study with them, possibly a matching grant and/or a student intern
• Bicycle Manufacturer: - Sent cleaned parts and samples to company. Called this week and Skip was going to check with his welder and see how things were going.
• Remanufacturing-repair facility – they are testing a new cleaner and wanted some guidance and possibly help piloting this summer. They also have an issue with a customer of a distributor of theirs that want their milling machines painted differently. They want the machines “prettier” and to look like other machines they have. They are being asked to use an isocyante based paint system.
• Microelectronics – Still trying to work out a DEP final ok on their cleaning process. Have a call in to the closest DEP regional office.
• Microelectronics – gong to visit Ed Gomes and talk about their pallet cleaning. Working on a visit date.
• Sheriffs office – visiting mid July to look at alternatives to their laundry detergents and possibly some sanitizers. Met them at a MAFMA training.

Grants
• Maid Review project –sent final recommendations in early June. Sent testing proposal for disinfection testing evaluations
• SHE seed grant proposal for Cleaning in Home Health Care. The proposed project will develop methods and collect pilot data to evaluate the health and environmental impacts of the use of cleaning products in the home healthcare (HHC) setting.

Small Contract Work
Ongoing or Completed
• Testing equipment for steam vapor cleaning. Evaluating range of applications for cleaning and disinfecting.
• No Touch cleaning system – soil removal testing (and maybe microbial testing) done on using a no touch system facility unit. Have unit and will be finalizing project scope.
• Vacuum cleaning evaluation- call to discuss next steps of vacuum vs. dust mop comparison.
• Formulation assistance – Provide product formulation assistance to company for cleaning products

In the Works
• Green Seal GS 37 testing for natural cleaning products
• Discussion for floor cleaning process evaluations. Will include ergonomic evaluation.
• Discussion on working with lab to create a “consumer report” like partnership where the lab would provide testing evaluations for their products and a place to direct consumers for comparisons to other products via the CleanerSolutions Site
• All purpose, glass and bathroom commercial line testing

Database Web Tool
• DIY site – reworking layout to make focus on performance with EHS as lesser focus (currently other way around)
• Collecting data for P2OASys updates. Researching ways to update programming

Disinfection Testing
• Activated water – still ongoing
• Steam vapor evaluations started
• Working on summer plan for testing – DIY recipes for disinfection, “greener” disinfectants

Do-it-Yourself Cleaning Recipes
• See Database Web Tool update
• Student has been working on videos for recipe making and performance testing. Working on gathering new recipes

Outreach
• Mass Facilities training in Westfield with Lynn Rose and Marcia Deegler. Reschedule of one in December. Talk of more trainings and working with Tom Tagean at MAFMA on equipment for their “Tool Shed”,
• Working on new Lab and possibly TCE, metal finishing or HHS help brochure
• Connecting with OTA on how to work more closely together, thinking about aligning site visit write ups
• Greening your facility fact sheet wrapping up.
• Webinar for Nebraska Business Development Center (July). 45 minute presentation on solvent substitution and how the CleanerSolutions database can help.
• Asked to speak at IEHA meeting October 18th with Allen Rathey

TURI Projects
• TURI Web redesign
• Working on a plan for outreach to a list of companies thought to be using TCE by OTA and TURI LAB
• Reviewed PCE alternatives report

Lab General
• Testing old equipment to check on working order
• Database project of checking vendor contact information

TURI Lab Monthly Update of Projects – May 2011

2011-06-02T12:51:00.007-04:00

End User Testing
LED manufacturer –Set up a meeting to discuss results and next steps and going over reports
Electronics – Meeting on the 10th to talk about test results and best next steps for them
Metal working facility – Arranged for a meeting in June with them about going aqueous and using a student intern or something in the fall on this project.
Bicycle manufacturer - couple of tests done. Sent cleaned parts to company
Remanufacturing-repair facility – arranged for visit in June.
Microelectronics – working with them and DEP to have them ok their cleaning process

Grants
Maid service evaluation – compiling final recommendations to be sent in early June. Putting together testing proposal for disinfection testing evaluations

Small Contract Work
Ongoing or Completed
• Testing equipment for steam vapor cleaning (IEHA connection). Evaluating range of applications for cleaning and disinfecting. Started evaluations
• Kitchen grease trap cleaning, all purpose cleaner.
• No touch cleaning system – soil removal testing (and maybe microbial testing) done on the no touch system. Have unit and will be finalizing project scope.
• Vacuum cleaner evaluation – Starting setting up for comparison of vacuum and dust mop.
• Formulation project –Planning meeting to determine next steps of project

In the Works
• Green Seal GS 37 testing for natural cleaning products
• Activated water performance testing – plans for performance testing on latest model – in addition to disinfection testing. Visit from marketing and research planning on coming to UML for a visit end of month. Possibility of lab trip facility to see their set up. More trips to Seattle planned for field testing.
• Floor care cleaning process evaluations – discussion with IEHA and company about floor cleaning process evaluations. Will include ergonomic evaluation. Waiting on approval from front office.
• Discussion on working with lab to create a “consumer report” like partnership where the lab would provide testing evaluations for their products and a place to direct consumers for comparisons to other products via the CleanerSolutions Site

Database Web Tool
• DIY site work getting ready for internal review of content
• Request for assistance with P2OASys from student from the University of Rhode Island - Pollution Prevention department is making a project comparing solvent-based paint and water-based paints from an auto-body shop in RI.

Disinfection Testing
• Progressing with initial disinfection testing protocols for activated water system. Company on-site to discuss results and testing plans
• Steam vapor disinfection – testing system using less than ideal conditions
• Working on summer plan for testing – DIY recipes for disinfection, “greener” disinfectants

Do-it-Yourself Cleaning Recipes
• Student has been working on videos for recipe making and performance testing. Working on gathering new recipes

Outreach
• Mass Facilities annual meeting on May 3rd at Green Star meeting.
• Training for facility management and green cleaning from December rescheduled to May 13th in Springfield
• Webinar for Nebraska Business Development Center (July). 45 minute presentation on solvent substitution and how the CleanerSolutions database can help.

TURI Lab Monthly Update of Projects – April 2011

2011-06-02T12:41:00.002-04:00

End User Testing
• Sign manufacturer– still working on environmental tests. They have asked the lab to help them look into equipment for in house environmental testing. They won’t be doing the matching grant due to timing issues. If we have this next fiscal year and they overcome their coating issues, they will reapply
• LED manufacturer – Working on setting up a meeting to discuss results and next steps and going over reports
• Electronics – Meeting on the 10th to talk about test results and best next steps for them
• Metal working facility– working on a prelim meeting in June with them about going aqueous and using a student intern or something in the fall on this project.
• RI testing assistance for MEK– results sent, connected them with vendor. Emailed for an update last week
• Bicycle manufacturer - couple of tests done. Will do parts testing this week and send them to company to work on. Talked with OTA about their progress.
• Remanufacturing-repair facility– called to restart work.
• Microelectronics – working with them and DEP to have them ok their cleaning process

Grants
Maid service evaluation. Attended convention for April 8th and 9th. Had a display at their vendor fair. Presented project updated to over 100 attendees. Waiting for surveys to be returned from franchises. Working on list of products and chemicals to get in for further testing.

Small Contract Work
Ongoing or Completed
• Testing equipment for steam vapor cleaning (IEHA connection). Evaluating range of applications for cleaning and disinfecting. Have agreement in place and will begin evaluating product during summer
• Kitchen grease trap cleaning, all purpose cleaner.
• All purpose testing
• Follow up testing for all purpose and glass testing

In the Works
• Floor care cleaning process evaluations– discussion with IEHA and company on floor cleaning process evaluations. Will include ergonomic evaluation. Waiting on approval from front office.
• Activated water performance testing – plans for performance testing on latest model – in addition to disinfection testing. Visit from marketing and research planning on coming to UML for a visit end of month. Possibility of lab trip to corporate head quarters to see their set up and work. More trips to Seattle planned for field testing.
• Asphalt cleaning from tools
• No touch cleaning system – soil removal testing (and maybe microbial testing) done on a no touch system. Have unit and will be finalizing project scope.
• Vacuum cleaner evaluation - call to discuss next steps of vacuum vs. dust mop comparison.
• Formulation project – possible contract to assist with formulation efforts. Planned call for early May

Database Web Tool
DIY section for CleanerSolutions as separate site. Reviewed preliminary mock up and shared with some from TURI for comment. Moving ahead with content population.

Disinfection Testing
• Progressing with initial testing protocols for activated water. Met with company to discuss next steps
• Steam Vapor – testing system using
• Working on summer plan for testing

Do-it-Yourself Cleaning Recipes
Have student working during summer on videos for recipe making and performance testing. Working on gathering new recipes

Outreach
• University of Washington to discus field testing partnership follow up call set to go again in May. Reps from activated water company coming here to work with us then maybe sending lab staff to corporate head quarters
• Maid Review project conference April 8-9
• Community conference April 14
• CIRI Green Cleaning and Science conference – April 27-29, Georgia Institute of Technology
• Disinfection work part of the SHE event on April 29th.
o Kate receiving internship award from UML
• Mass Facilities annual meeting on May 3rd at Green Start meeting. Also have a table to be manned with OTA and interns
• Training for facility management and green cleaning from December rescheduled to May 13th in Springfield

Cleaning Questions Answered

2011-05-10T09:07:00.002-04:00

Recently we had a company in Massachusetts ask about safer adhesive removers. Using the CleanerSolutions database, we generated a list of products that we had tested for successful removal of adhesives using manual cleaning. In addition, we provided a list vendor recommended products as well.

Do you have a cleaning question you want answered? Email us: sclab@cleanersolutions.org

TURI Lab Monthly Update of Projects – March 2011

2011-04-26T09:39:00.000-04:00

End User Testing
• Sign manufacturer – Waiting on environmental test results. They are working on the brass and soft metals.
• LED manufacturer–Received materials to begin testing. Report sent, found 2 cleaners that may work. Working on pricing and EHS.
• Electronics– getting new silicone from them to test. Second round of testing being done. Meeting with them week of the 18th of April to go over test and to get more soil. No cleaners found yet. They have option to retrofit tanks too so we are looking into that.

• Metal working facility– They are ready to work on switch to aqueous. Will meet with them one this spring to go over plan, get parts etc then will start full project in summer when have time.
• RI testing assistance for MEK– Sent report and contact information for cleaner to them. Follow up to determine next steps

Grants
• Maid service evaluation. Open mic session for franchisees to provide input to the evaluation process March 3 and 4. Rrepresentatives on site 3/2-3/4. Completed interim report and created materials for convention for April 8th and 9th.

Small Contract Work.
Ongoing or Completed
• Testing equipment for steam vapor cleaning (IEHA connection). Evaluating range of applications for cleaning and disinfecting. Set up call to discus future work plans
• Kitchen grease trap cleaning, all purpose cleaner
• All purpose and kitchen soil evaluation
• Follow up testing for all purpose and glass testing

In the Works
• Floor care cleaning process evaluations
• Activated water performance testing on latest model – in addition to disinfection testing
• Asphalt cleaning from tools
• No touch cleaning system - soil removal testing (and maybe microbial testing)

Database Web Tool
DIY section for CleanerSolutions as separate site. Reviewed preliminary mock up and shared with some from TURI for comment. Moving ahead with content population.

Disinfection Testing
• Progressing with initial testing protocols for activated water. Met with company to discuss next steps
• Steam vapor – testing system using under less then perfect conditions

Do-it-Yourself Cleaning Recipes
Videos being made for how to make the recipes and how well they work. To be part of new web database section

Outreach
• Second visit at University of Washington to discus field testing partnership March 7-9.
• DEP meeting and MA EPP office to do a presentation about lab and green cleaning with facility managers and purchasers
• Community conference April 14
• CIRI Green Cleaning and Science conference – April 27-9, Georgia Institute of Technology
• Mass Facilities annual meeting on May 3rd at Green Start meeting. Also have a table there and will man it with OTA and interns

TURI Projects
• Industry matching grants program – hinges on next round of environmental tests
• Helping with TCE implementation plan and alternative assessment
• TURI Web redesign
• Three presentations in two sessions at the Community conference April 14th (Disinfection, Biobased Alternatives, Performance Evaluations)
• Dry Cleaning visit & work on PCE report

TURI Lab Monthly Update of Projects – February 2011

2011-03-16T13:50:00.002-04:00

End User Testing
• Sign manufacturer – Waiting on environmental test results
• LED manufacturer–Received materials to begin testing
• Electronics– getting new silicone from them to test. Second round of testing to start week of 2/28/11
• Metal working facility– working on schedule for testing, parts
• RI testing assistance for MEK– Adhesive in. Testing to start week of 2/28/11
• Transportation Agency –Waiting on test request form for initial project to work on. Follow up email sent.

Grants
• Maid service evaluation. Reviewed training videos. Gathering chemical and equipment alternatives to assess performance and safety. Open mic session for franchisees to provide input to the evaluation process set for March 3 and 4. Representatives on site 3/2-3/4.

Small Contract Work
Ongoing or Completed
• Testing equipment for steam vapor cleaning. Evaluating range of applications for cleaning and disinfecting. Had conference call to discus future work plans.
• All purpose cleaning for DfE

In the Works
• Company planning on internal testing and then follow up testing with lab for Green Seal, DfE programs
• Green Product testing for DfE and/or Green Seal evaluation for all purpose and glass testing. Possible disinfection evaluation as well
• Discussion on floor cleaning process evaluations

Database Web Tool
DIY section for CleanerSolutions site or separate site. Sent contractors content and some structure suggestions for site

Disinfection Testing
Progressing with initial testing protocols.

Do-it-Yourself Cleaning Recipes
See Database Web Tool update

Outreach
• Second visit at University of Washington to discus field testing partnership March 7-9.
• Presented at CII at University of Connecticut Health Center Annual Meeting with Tim Morse and Nancy Simcox – Feb 28th
• CIRI Green Cleaning and Science conference – April 27-9, Georgia Institute of Technology

TURI Projects
• Industry matching grants program –hinges on next round of environmental tests
• Helping with TCE implementation plan
• TURI Web redesign
• Plan to participate in the community conference set for April 14th
• Dry Cleaning visit

Lab update for January 2011

2011-02-15T12:40:00.000-05:00

End User Testing
• Sign manufacturer – working with consultant to set up more environmental testing. First round has issues with edges on red metals and some hazing. Second round is out for testing. Haven’t heard back yet. Have an email out to them.
• LED manufacturer – waiting on new engineer to get back to us with information. Need to collect more soil from them. Possibly start preliminary testing first week of January.
• Electronics – getting new silicone from them to test. Testing started
• Equipment refurbisher – trying to set up visit to restart work with them. They contacted lab before holidays
• Metal working facility – working on cold solvent regulations. Hoping to start nPB replace in spring 2011
• RI testing assistance for MEK – Working on a NDA
• Transportation Agency – Visit to lab with OTA. Waiting on test request form for initial project to work on.

Grants
• Maid service evaluation. Wrapping up video tape process during TURI homes cleanings Completed travel to Illinois, Texas and Washington in January. Completed initial EHS assessment of current products. Started working on alternative chemicals and equipment.
• Pepsi Refresh Project – mobile lab project listed on site for voting during January – did not win, but did get the word out there about the lab. Thanks for your votes.

Small Contract Work
Ongoing or Completed
• Testing equipment for steam vapor cleaning. Evaluating range of applications for cleaning and disinfecting. Follow up call to discus future work planed for February.
• All purpose, rust removal
• All purpose and kitchen grease cleaning
• GS 34 degreasing testing
In the Works
• All purpose evaluation – company planning on internal testing and then follow up testing with lab for Green Seal, DfE programs
• All purpose cleaning for DfE

Database Web Tool
DIY section for CleanerSolutions site or separate site. Met with consultant and TURI staff to discuss content and infrastructure of site.

Disinfection Testing
Progressing with initial testing protocols. Have a few contracts in the works for testing

Outreach
Visit at University of Washington to discus field testing partnership and HPCP testing opportunities. Other universities and school systems being contacted by IEHA for participating field testing.

Request for presentation on the lab to Chemical Innovations Institute (CII) at University of Connecticut Health Center Annual Meeting– Feb 28th

TURI Projects
• Industry matching grants program – hinges on next round of environmental tests
• Helping with TCE implementation plan
• TURI Web redesign
• Plan to participate in the Community conference set for mid April

Mobile Cleaning Lab

2011-01-06T13:45:00.000-05:00

This could be the Mobile Lab if you vote in the Pepsi Refresh Project!

Lab update for December 2010

2011-01-06T08:57:00.001-05:00

End User Testing
• Working with consultant to set up more environmental testing. First round has issues with edges on red metals and some hazing.
• Waiting on new engineer to get back to us with information. Need to collect more soil from them. Possibly start preliminary testing first week of January.
• Getting new silicone from them to test. Will start other 2 soils first week of January.
• Trying to set up visit to restart work with them. They contacted lab before holidays
• Working on cold solvent regulations. Hoping to start nPB replace in spring 2011
• RI testing assistance for MEK – sending materials for testing.

Grants
Pepsi Refresh Project - Mobile Cleaning Lab proposal in the running for $250,000. Voting runs through the month of January.

Small Contract Work
Ongoing or Completed
• Testing equipment for steam vapor cleaning. Evaluating range of applications for cleaning and disinfecting.
• Reviewing cleaning methods for maid service.
• All purpose, rust removal
• Product comparison testing – all purpose and glass
• All purpose and kitchen grease cleaning
• GS 34 degreasing testing

In the Works
• Rinse aid and oven cleaning testing for DfE
• ASTM testing for all purpose, oil and grease removal

Database Web Tool
DIY section for CleanerSolutions site or separate site. Scheduled visit with contractor in January. Working on mock-up,

Disinfection Testing
Establishing next phase of training. Begin in early January. Going to try meet up with Nancy first week of January.

Do-it-Yourself Cleaning Recipes
Local author (Uxbridge, MA), Leslie Reichert, The Cleaning Coach, came for visit. She has a book on DIY recipes. Wants to work with us in future. Doing third edition of book and want to include some of our work.

Outreach
• Planned visit at University of Washington to discus field testing partnership and HPCP testing in January.
• Contacted by Eastern Bank to do Earthday talk in April
• Spoke at Fitchburg NCMBEN event at request of Rick at OTA. Discussing cold solvent cleaning options
• Participated in IEHA ICM (Integrated cleaning and measurement) call.
• Did training with Lynn Rose for MA facility managers on green cleaning options. Asked to speak at their conference in April.

TURI Projects
• University Research project – met on Dec 2 for status of surfactant project
• Industry matching grants program – hinges on next round of environmental tests
• Helping with TCE implementation plan
• TURI Web redesign

Pepsi Refresh Proposal needs your vote

2011-01-03T08:48:00.000-05:00

Lab update for November 2010

2010-12-17T09:32:00.000-05:00

End User Testing
• Working on paint strippers for powder coating. Waiting on weathering testing results.
• Site visit to talk to facilities manager- restarting acetone replacement project. Cleaning LED wafers.
• Referral from OTA. Using heptane, toluene and IPA to clean silicone and resins off mixing gear. Cold cleaning issue
• Want to restart old project, cold cleaning issue also. Want to meet and start after holiday.
• Ready to look at nPB on bench tops and then vapor degreaser. Want substitute. Want to start after holiday
• Pawtucket, RI testing assistance for MEK – emailed them to get the soil to start testing.
• Electronics - Cold solvent change

Small Contract Work
Ongoing or Completed
• Testing equipment for steam vapor cleaning. Evaluating range of applications for cleaning and disinfecting.
• Reviewing cleaning methods and chemicals for maid service.
• Performance Testing on floor stripper for EcoLogo certification
• Pot and pan cleaner evaluation for DfE
• All purpose, rust removal
In the Works
• All purpose, glass cleaner comparison testing – on site for testing 12-7-10
• Enzymatic cleaner manufacturer – visit on 12-3-10 to discuss testing options
• All purpose and kitchen grease cleaning
• GS 34 degreasing testing
• Rinse aid and oven cleaning testing for DfE

Database Web Tool
Answered questions using CleanerSolutions solvent replacement questions – sent links to reports and vendors in response to the following:
• Mexico: Trying to find an aqueous cleaner for stainless steel stamped parts using cutting oil. Need to degrease and clean parts so that they can be free from oil, dirt and grey residue abteined after drawing / stamping process using immersion washer machines. More commun part materials are 316 SS, 304 SS and Monel (alloy 400)
• Puerto Rico: I’m looking for a replacement for Slide Mold Cleaner Plus Degreaser 3 , this product (aerosol can – 20 oz.) is used to clean molds from injection molding operations that may contain grease, lubricant, dirt, or traces of the injected plastic (molding compound) at temperature up to 350˚F. Appreciate very much your help, I performed a search but found a list of 300 products

Disinfection Testing
Heidi, Tim and Katie have had more training in the Clinical Lab Science facility on basic microbiology techniques. Karen will be working on a write up for the SHE newsletter with input from Nancy and Jason.

Do-it-Yourself Cleaning Recipes
DIY section for CleanerSolutions site or separate site.
Met with Leslie Reichert, The Cleaning Coach, to discuss possible collaborations on DIY recipes adding performance and health and safety information.

Outreach
• Planned visit at University of Washington to discus field testing partnership and HPCP testing in January.
• Participated in New England Surface Finishing conference in November. Met someone using TCE in a dry cleaning type machine for cleaning. Was invited to go see the operation
• Participated at ISSA and IEHA conferences in November
• Spoke at a foreman/supervisor meeting in Attleboro on the 21st. The organizer was very interested in the CleanerSolutions database. Interested in other collaboration with TURI. They are interested in supply chain work, how to get all the pieces of the puzzle talking to make low and no voc paints that work.
• Manned table with OTA at first annual Amiccon conference in Springfield. Connected with chambers of commerce and some business magazines from the area. Thoughts are to write short articles on TURI or projects to get our name out there.
• Speaking at Fitchburg NCMBEN event at request of OTA. Discussing cold solvent cleaning options
• Participated in conference call for Healthy Hospital Initiative – Health Care without harm Green Cleaning project
• Started fact/tip sheet on “greening your facility”

TURI Projects
• University Research project – meeting on Dec 2 for status of surfactant project
• Industry matching grants program – waiting for environmental/weathering testing.
• Helping with TCE implementation plan
• Dry Cleaning Assistance –Talking to Kreussler about chemical in their new dry cleaning solvent. Trying to get information. Looking to do alternative assessment with a few tools on the main solvent classes. Think it would be great to see how this new process would compare with other replacements. Could use Green Screen, P2OASys and others.
• TURI Web redesign

Equipment evaluation options added to IEHA's High Performance Cleaning Product testing program

2010-11-16T09:55:00.000-05:00

IEHA's High Performance Cleaning Product testing program in collaboration with the University of Massachusetts Lowell TURI Laboratory is expanding to include equipment and non-chemical process testing. According to Beth Risinger, CEO and executive director of IEHA: "The IEHA Board of Directors has received several requests to evaluate the performance of equipment and processes in addition to chemical cleaning solutions, and after review, IEHA has agreed to develop a supplemental equipment testing program for hard surfaces that will augment the current HPCP test protocols." The Toxics Use Reduction Institute Laboratory that has been at the forefront of testing to find high-performance cleaning alternatives to toxic chemistries will conduct the equipment testing

Lab update for October 2010

2010-11-05T11:54:00.002-04:00

End User Testing
Site visit to LED manufacturing company 10-28-10
Contacted by company in Pawtucket, RI via EPA about testing assistance for MEK

Small Contract Work
Ongoing or Completed
2 chemical manufacturers – 10 trials, 3 cleaning equipment companies – 5 trials
• Testing equipment for steam vapor cleaning. Evaluating range of applications for cleaning and disinfecting.
• Waiting for feedback on dry mop and vacuum cleaning.
In the Works
• Hard floor cleaning testing with the potential for future collaboration to develop official testing standard.
• Performance testing on floor stripper for EcoLogo certification
• GS 34 Testing project
• Pot and pan cleaning testing
• ASTM D4488, TURI all purpose and DCC-09 testing

Database Web Tool
• DIY conversations with IEHA may influence development of new end user interface for CleanerSolutions site.
• Worked on structure for the behind the scenes database

Answered questions using CleanerSolutions solvent replacement questions – sent links to reports and vendors in response to the following:
• Hong Kong: For acetone replacement for our washing rooms-used for dissolution of the ink of markers and the organic residues (i.e. dyes, PCP, pesticides, fatty acid and etc
• South Africa: Investigating alternatives to PCE and TCE as vapor degreasing agents for removing rolling lubricant from aluminum plates.

Disinfection Testing
Heidi, Tim and Katie have had more training in the Clinical Lab Science facility on basic microbiology techniques. Karen will be working on a write up for the SHE

Do-it-Yourself Cleaning Recipes
Worked with Joy on putting together tip sheet for DIY cleaning recipes.
Planning to have monthly update on website for most recent testing of recipes.

Outreach
• Met with Karen to develop updated lab brochure - equipment testing insert
• Planned visit at University of Washington to discus field testing partnership and HPCP testing in January
• Scheduled to participate at NESF conference in November
• Scheduled to participate at ISSA and IEHA conferences in November
• Heidi spoke at a foreman/supervisor meeting in Attleboro in place of EPA on the 21st
• Heidi speaking at coatings meeting with OTA on the 28th
• Continuing education conference session for Nov 3
• Speaking Dec 1st at Business Environmental Network meeting discussing cold solvent cleaning options and how the lab can help companies find the right alternative

TURI Projects
• Providing services TURI Community grant recipients focused on green cleaning – toilet bowl cleaner focus. Other DIY testing for handout for Community program
• Met with UML faculty member to revisit his database proposal and to move project ahead without funding.
• Industry matching grants program
• Continuing Education conference session
• Helping with TCE implementation plan
• Dry Cleaning Assistance
• TURI Web redesign

Green Organization Tips For More Productivity, Less Stress

2010-11-05T11:17:00.001-04:00

Check out these eight green organizing ideas (especially number 3 on green cleaning) adapted from or inspired by Lorie's Lorie Marrero, author of “The Clutter Diet: The Skinny on Organizing Your Home and Taking Control of Your Life.”

DIY Cleaning Recipe Tip Sheet

2010-10-29T09:07:00.002-04:00

Check out TURI's recently completed tip sheet for 12 Do-It-Yourself Cleaning recipes, complete with test results.

Lab update for September 2010

2010-10-05T12:51:00.004-04:00

End User Testing
1 company, 1 trial – metal working company
Site visits – 2; Metal sign manufacturer, Gear Manufacturer
Re engaged with Gear Mfr to work on cold solvent regulations and how to switch them to aqueous.

Small Contract Work
Ongoing or Completed
2 chemical manufacturers – 9 trials, 2 cleaning equipment companies – 3 trials
• Completed testing for sustainable solvent testing. Evaluated all purpose and graffiti removal capabilities.
• Completed testing for household cleaning product line and product labeling and MSDS reviews.
• Completed hard floor cleaning equipment project.
• Received equipment for steam vapor cleaning. Will evaluate range of applications for cleaning and disinfecting.
• Established testing methodology to compare dry mop and vacuum cleaning
In the Works
• Working on proposal for reviewing cleaning methods of a maid service
• Scheduling visit for company to discuss hard floor cleaning testing for their equipment – possibly 10-19-10.
• Second round of aerosol testing – engine cleaners
• Outdoor all purpose testing
• All purpose, household grease, oil and grease cleaner, road salt

Database Web Tool
DIY conversations with IEHA may influence development of new end user interface for CleanerSolutions site.

Disinfection Testing
Heidi, Tim and Katie have had some training in the Clinical Lab Science facility on basic microbiology techniques. Dr. Goodyear and Jason have discussed the testing proposal and will be working on the specifics. Karen will be working on a write up for the SHE newsletter with input from Nancy and Jason.

Do-it-Yourself Cleaning Recipes
The Lab met with IEHA members and Liz Goldsmith to discuss revamping the DIY pages on the TURI.org site. They are putting together a scope of services for the end of October.
Student testing of recipes picking back up.

Formulations
Completed testing for sustainable solvents.
Review of household product line formulations.

Hands-on workshop
Working on IEHA-TURI High Performance Cleaning Product training webinar that will be held after ISSA show in November.
Met with Karen to discuss hosting a Massachusetts vendor open house at the TURI Lab. May have end users (such as maid services) attend to see what is available from local vendors.
Discussion with EPA about services for Connecticut companies.

Mobile Lab
May have connection with IEHA and field testing integration with lab performance testing.

Outreach
• Presented at WPI for Air Quality Management class in chemical engineering department.
• Article in Journal of Cleaner Production completed editing.
• Chapter in Handbook for Critical Cleaning in final stages of editing/proofing
• Met with Karen to develop updated lab brochure
• Conference call with IEHA, University of Washington to discus field testing partnership and HPCP testing – possible visit to UWashington in January
• Scheduled to participate at NESF conference in November
• Scheduled to participate at ISSA and IEHA conferences in November
• Heidi went to Green Jobs fair in Marlborough Oct 1st
• Heidi and Tim speaking at a meeting in Attleboro for Linda Darveau on the 21st
• Heidi speaking at coatings meeting with OTA on the 28th

State-of-the-Art Facility
Chemical storage cabinets received and old cabinets removed.
Lab reorganized for better flow and tracking of ongoing projects.

TURI Projects
• Providing services TURI Community grant recipients focused on green cleaning.
• Reviewed Industry Research proposals. Input for several related to Lab. Attended one kick off meeting. Have touched base with database project to revisit this proposal.
• Industry matching grants program - sign mfr
• Continuing Education conference session
• Helping with TCE implementation plan

IEHA and UMass Lowell TURI Lab Announce Color and Gloss Measurement Technology as Part of the HPCP Testing Program

2010-08-27T15:13:00.003-04:00

The International Executive Housekeepers Association (IEHA) and the University of Massachusetts Lowell TURI lab have announced that performance analysis during the IEHA/TURI High Performance Cleaning Product (HPCP) testing program will be enhanced through use of the BYK-Gardner Spectro-Guide to measure the color and gloss of surfaces before and after cleaning.
Read more

DIY Carpet Stain Cleaner Video

2010-08-02T14:35:00.002-04:00

Recent series of videos for carpet cleaning. Here is Heidi talking about do-it-yourself cleaners:

Proposed Projects for TURI Lab in 2011

2010-07-23T13:27:00.001-04:00

Proposed Projects of the TURI Lab for FY 2011
Project Detail: End User Testing
Brief Description: Continue to provide testing services to end users in MA. Establish methodology for providing consistent services to New England
GOALS or OBJECTIVES
Goal 1 Provide testing services to end users 10 end users
Goal 2 Improve on-site assistance program
Goal 3 Create Green Facility Cleaning – fact sheet

Project Detail: Small Contract Work
Brief Description: Conduct R&D testing for new products or other cleaning related applications.
GOALS or OBJECTIVES
Goal 1 Provide testing services to 10 vendors
Goal 2 Identify industry trade group for non-janitorial products
Goal 3 Identify and contact other MA based manufacturers of cleaning products for testing services/database listing

Project Detail: Database Web Tool
Brief Description: Continue to expand database features. Use the search log to focus student testing. P2OASys population and on-line version
GOALS or OBJECTIVES
Goal 1 Create and pilot Janitorial/household interface
Goal 2 Populate products in CleanerSolutions with P2OASys data

Project Detail: Disinfection Testing
Brief Description: Establish testing program for “safer” disinfection chemicals and practices
GOALS or OBJECTIVES
Goal 1 Work with SHE Clinical Science lab to pilot "green" disinfection testing
Goal 2 Create fee-for-service infrastructure

Project Detail: Do-it-Yourself Cleaning Recipes
Brief Description: Focus on providing test results in household user friendly format. Test most common recipes.
GOALS or OBJECTIVES
Goal 1 Complete existing formulation testing
Goal 2 updating layout of DIY turi.org pages
Goal 3 DIY Cleaners demonstration - hands-on workshop demo

Project Detail: Formulations
Brief Description: Investigate possible new solvents for cleaning applications - aerosol substitutes, green/sustainable solvents, green vapor degreaser
GOALS or OBJECTIVES
Goal 1 Generate a list of ingredients for possible formulations
Goal 2 Formulate basic "green" products and test performance

Project Detail: Hands-on workshop
Brief Description: Target janitorial service providers for on-site workshop. Duplicate RI workshop and assistance with other states regarding TCE – partner with EPA
GOALS or OBJECTIVES
Goal 1 Target janitorial service providers - DIY recipes
Goal 2 Hold an open house for MA cleaning product manufacturers
Goal 3 Hold off-site workshop and provide assistance to companies out of state (Connecticut)

Project Detail: Mobile Lab
Brief Description: Determine ways to acquire and outfit mobile surface cleaning lab.
GOALS or OBJECTIVES
Goal 1 Identify alternative sources of financial support
Goal 2 Expand capabilities to include outreach and training

Project Detail: Outreach
Brief Description: Promoting services and success of laboratory.
GOALS or OBJECTIVES
Goal 1 Create case study on Green Facility cleaning
Goal 2 Create case study for high hazard replacement project
Goal 3 Attend and present on testing program with IEHA at ISSA

Project Detail: State-of-the-Art Facility
Brief Description: To ensure the lab is still providing relevant testing expertise.
GOALS or OBJECTIVES
Goal 1 Verify current vendor information
Goal 2 Identify and acquire new cleaning product/equipment
Goal 3 Replace, upgrade and expand coupon inventory

Lab update for Summer 2010

2010-07-23T12:17:00.000-04:00

Project Summaries completed from July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2010

Project
End User Testing

Brief Description
Conduct process specific testing for both industrial and janitorial testing as requested by companies

Summary
Four end user cleaning projects took place with seventeen cleaning trials. Multiple site visits were made to assist in the implementation of lab recommendations.

Project
Small Contract Work
Brief Description
Conduct R&D testing for new products or other cleaning related applications.
Summary
Ten testing contracts were conducted with 56 trials run. Most projects focused on green certification testing. Two formulation projects were run and one equipment evaluation was started at the end of the fiscal year.

Project
Database Web Tool
Brief Description
Continue to expand database features. Use the search log to focus student testing. P2OASys population and on-line version
Summary
Minimal updates were conducted for the web database. No new features were added during the year. There were more than 29,000 searches conducted during the past year. Additional health and safety data was gathered for a handful of products as part of a pilot project with the P2OASys tool.

Project
Do-it-Yourself Cleaning Recipes
Brief Description
Continue to evaluate performance of DIY cleaning recipes. Investigate possible lab created formulations based on health, safety and performance
Summary
Work study student conducted some testing of the formulations listed on the TURI DIY website pages. Data has not been entered into testing base or posted on website.

Project
Hands-on workshop
Brief Description
Incorporate lab workshop into possible course for UML WED or continuing education
Summary
Some of the lab's testing methodologies and EHS screening were introduced to the TUR course offered at UML. In addition the same topics were preseneted during the professional TUR course offered by TURI.

Project
Outreach
Brief Description
Promoting services and success of laboratory.
Summary
Several outreach venues were undertaken. A chapter in Handbook for Critical Cleaning was completed (available January 28, 2011), a submission was accepted in the Journal of Cleaner Production focusing on the implementation efforts of the lab in RI. Monthly posting to blog and daily microblogging via Twitter. A Facebook page was started for the lab. Several press releases in partnership with IEHA. Participated in the 20th TURA events during the year.

Project
State-of-the-Art Facility
Brief Description
To ensure the lab is still providing relevant testing expertise.
Summary
We were able to add Gloss/Color meter from BYK; Dino Lite digital microscope; Hygiena System Sure Plus for ATP measurement

Lab update for May 2010

2010-06-15T09:25:00.000-04:00

Green Cleaning Testing
Site Visits
Toluene replacement – waiting to get paint prep cleaner from vendor. Also sent them info on acetone replacement solvent and they ordered a sample. Waiting on adhesion testing results on new solvent.
Tool & Die –In contact with vendor and company - Have new solvent to try, an acetone replacement product.
Bank – Sent some lists of products they use in their facility. Said they have all MSDS’s. They are going to schedule a meeting with vendors. Will give support and guidance when needed.

New & Ongoing End User Testing Projects
Wax removal from glass –First round of testing done. nPB worked for them. Will also be looking at a few other solvents, dibasic esters and new acetone replacement solvent.
Plating company– They are working with DEP to find a solvent that is ok for cold solvent regs. Lab is working on this also and looking at the EH&S profile of the alternatives. They are sending parts for us to clean here with now acetone replacement solvent.
Café – Wants to use green cleaners in store. Sent list of products they use. Will work on finding suitable replacements and connect with some vendors.
Cable company – pulled list of cleaners to try on two projects. Testing has started. They want to clean cable and a faster clean for PVC

Vendor Product Testing

The lab has been working with manufacturers of janitorial/household cleaners. Testing has been conducted to help these products get Green Seal and/or EPA DfE certification/recognition. Areas of testing included this month: all purpose, bathroom, glass, manual/automatic dishwashing.

One project for dishwashing (manual and automatic) that is wrapping up.

Testing microfiber/squeegee cleaning process using ATP measurements – compared paper towel of various quality

Formulation project - Alternative solvent testing for all purpose cleaning (Dipropylene glycol methyl ether) and graffiti removal (Dibasic esters) – have UML approval of NDA – waiting on materials to be sent

Formulation project – replacing surfactant in existing formulation in order to pass Green Seal EHS. Test resulting formulation for performance – completed formulations and started baseline testing

Overall, the lab has worked with 13 companies since July 2009 and conducted 60 trials.

Disinfection Testing Partnership within UML SHE
The partnership will start out by looking at how to compare the ATP measurement with traditional analytical methods for biological evaluations.
Student capstone project completed
Lab has done some ATP testing
Will check in with SHE Lab about testing fees and structures
Piloting products – Vital Oxide, Activeion, Steam Cleaner
Working on pricing for initial project
Partnering with IEHA
Laying ground work for future disinfection projects

Outreach
IEHA-TURI partnership revisions and improvements
Chapter in Handbook for Critical Cleaning 2nd edition coming out in some time this year. Chapter focuses on the lab’s technical assistance program. Only one complimentary copy
CE Conference – Edited and sent answers to questions out of CE conference to participants. Many happy to hear from us and have follow up.

Carpet cleaning video with IEHA - editing should be done in June

Attended EASTEC conference

Attended NEFA sponsored wet cleaning seminar and class on May 15th in Rochester NH. Great technical class on fibers and fabrics with hands on work after.

The Housekeeping Channel Professional Edition

2010-05-27T08:26:00.001-04:00

HC Pro

Launched on May 26th, 2010. HC Pro provides a bridge for consumers who want to turn “Pro”, and access for professionals who want to grow their expertise and become certified through credible bodies such as the International Executive Housekeepers Association (IEHA), the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI), ISSA-CIMS, Cleaning Management Institute (CMI) and others.

Visit Housekeeping Channel Professional Edition (HC Pro)

HC Pro contains abstracts and excerpts from IEHA's educational curriculum, information on IEHA Certification Programs and on topics such as Integrated Cleaning and Measurement (ICM), Team Cleaning, Day Cleaning, Green Cleaning, Cleaning Science, Systems Thinking, and other best practices. Where appropriate, it will link to corresponding content on IEHA.org.

See the video tab for TURI Lab video.

TURI Funding for FY 2011

2010-05-24T10:22:00.000-04:00

The Massachusetts Senate Ways and Means FY2011 budget proposal was released on Wednesday, and we have the following update. The Senate budget does not follow the Governor and House Ways and Means approach for funding the TURA program agencies. The Governor and House had included appropriations for DEP, OTA and TURI out of retained revenue from TURA fees, all under the DEP TURA line item. This approach makes it clear that TURA fees paid by firms will go to program services.
In contrast, the Senate Ways and Means proposal reverted to the language adopted last year in the FY2010 conference committee budget. It rolls up TURI into the UMass line item as an earmark with no specific funding mentioned. (OTA and DEP are funded with their traditional line items - although OTA is funded at a very low amount.) UMass made it clear last year that given a reduced budget and no specific line item for TURI, their priority needed to be on students. For FY10, UMass arranged to use one-time education stimulus funds for the Institute. For FY11, rolling TURI into the UMass line item makes TURI’s future uncertain once again.
Senator Eldridge has filed an amendment to the Senate Budget to adopt the House and Governor's approach of retained revenue at DEP to fund all 3 TURA agencies. It is Amendment #249: Toxics Use Reduction Institute. Amendments will be voted on during the week of May 24th.

Stayed tuned for more details.

TURI Cleaning Lab now on Facebook

2010-05-07T14:17:00.002-04:00

Check out our Facebook page.

Lab update of activities for April 2010

2010-05-06T11:40:00.002-04:00

Green Cleaning Testing
Product Performance Testing
Continue to provide testing for Green Seal and EPA DfE certification projects.
• There is one project for dishwashing (manual and automatic) that is started in early April and should be completed in the middle of May
• Testing for All Purpose GS 37 and degreasing GS 34 – to completed in April - Very successful for both applications
• Testing microfiber/squeegee cleaning process using ATP measurements – should be wrapping up by the end of May
• Formulation project - Alternative solvent testing for all purpose cleaning (Dipropylene glycol methyl ether) and graffiti removal (Dibasic esters). Work should begin in middle of May
• Formulation project - working on finding replacement surfactant for all purpose cleaner.

Site Visits
Toluene replacement: Working on more adhesion tests. Investigating product they heard of from another shop - hydrocarbon based. identifying some leads on paint prep cleaners and will get those to them and they can try them and do some more testing.

Tool & Die: TCE to nPB and aqueous lines. Company identified some cleaners they thought could help them with their cold solvent regulation needs

Acetone reduction: company uses over 12,000 pounds. They are getting parts together to send to the lab to evaluate alternatives

Cable cleaning project: Went and saw their new PVC softening and cleaning operation. Going to look at two options, repainting the cable so that the multi-colored lines are no longer on it or remove the paint. Worried about VOCs with painting and cleaning.

Green Facility - Banking: The facility manager was open to working with the TURI Lab on greening the facility. Going to start with getting an inventory of all the cleaners they use. Also talked about office equipment, flooring, paint and other things that could affect indoor air quality. He mentioned they have a consulting firm in looking at their energy use also. He did mention they are thinking of looking at trying for LEED for existing building designation.

New End User Testing Projects
Biomedical Devices manufacturer: TCE User (>1000 lbs) to remove wax from glass and they have 3 degreasers - one large and two small. They may be going to a new cutting system that will use DI water as a lubricant and can cut the glass piece by piece so there will be no oil or wax to clean. This is a big capital investment so they are not sure when they can do that. In the mean time, the lab will start testing chemistry in May.

Plating: Contacted the TURI Lab to say that they are looking at D Limonene based cleaners. Going to help them look at the cleaners they are looking at and help them find the most cost effective and safest product. Working to help them meet the cold solvent regulations.

Overall, the lab has worked with 10 companies since July and conducted 55 trials

Database
Received two of three database reviews for Journal of Cleaner Production.

Outreach
We have been working on IEHA-TURI partnership revisions and improvements - better detailing what the program is about. Latest press release

Disinfection Testing Partnership within UML SHE
Plans are coming together to begin offering disinfection and sanitization testing for "greener" products.
o Working on pricing for initial project
o Laying ground work for future disinfection projects
o Student capstone project completed.
o Pilot project should be under way in June

TURA Continuing Education Conference
Session took questions on cold solvent cleaning and had DEP answer them.

Lab update of activities for March 2010

2010-04-12T09:23:00.000-04:00

Green Cleaning Testing
Product Performance Testing
The lab has been working with four manufacturers of janitorial/household cleaners. Testing has been conducted to help these products get Green Seal and/or EPA DfE certification/recognition. Areas of testing included this month: all purpose, bathroom, glass, manual/automatic dishwashing, carpet stain cleaning, floor finish durability.
• There is one project for dishwashing (manual and automatic) that is starting the first week of April.
• Testing for All Purpose GS 37 and degreasing GS 34 – to start in April
• Testing microfiber/squeegee cleaning process using ATP measurements – to continue in April
• Formulation project - Alternative solvent testing for all purpose cleaning (Dipropylene glycol methyl ether) and graffiti removal (Dibasic esters)
• Activated water testing – follow up work to earlier project

Site Visits
The toluene replacement is being piloted on site for one of the four products identified by the lab. They are working on adhesion control. Have dropped off 3 samples. They are testing for adhesion. Also researching product they asked me about and have reached out to vendors for more options.

TCE replacement – visit to look at passivation line, talk about cold solvent regs & any other low hanging fruit & to start case study on their switch to nPB (25% reduction in chemical useage and haz waste). Going end of week

Plating company – arranged for visit in late April - need to get out of nPB to meet new cold cleaning regulations

Acetone reduction in cleaning process. Use over 12,000 lbs. Visit middle of April

Database
Updated testing data for March.
Have requested database reviews from three people. Reviews may be used for Journal of Cleaner Production. These also will be incorporated onto database and blog as well. Stay tuned.

Outreach
Chapter in Handbook for Critical Cleaning 2nd edition coming out in April/May. Chapter focuses on the lab’s technical assistance program.

Article in Executive Housekeeping Today "Measuring Green Cleaning" for Cleaning and Maintenance Magazine came out in April.

Website – Beginning DIY page review. Will set up meeting to discuss it after CE conference. Idea is to look at website as a whole for technical data as well as consumer usefulness. Want to add more recipes, do more testing etc.
• New Lab banner ad on Healthy Home Institute, Housekeeping Channel sites

Carpet Stain DIY Cleaning – Heidi hit the road and went to Tallahassee. Spent four days working on carpet samples, rehearsing and filming segments on carpet cleaning with DIY recipes as well as CRI approved products. Partnered with HHI/HC.

CE Conference – Heidi in charge of session on cold solvent regulations with Azin Kavian from MA DEP. Will talk about regulation, what Lab & OTA can offer and show some alternatives

Disinfection Testing Partnership within UML SHE
The partnership will start out by looking at how to compare the ATP measurement with traditional analytical methods for biological evaluations. Lab will provide some materials, student time and staff time (Heidi) to help get testing started.
• Student capstone project moving ahead.
• Lab has done some ATP testing (see microfiber/squeegee testing above).

Executive Housekeeping Today Articles

2010-04-02T11:22:00.000-04:00

Check out the two articles in the International Executive Housekeepers Association's April edition of Executive Housekeeping Today for two articles on the TURI Lab's cleaning program.

TURA 20th Anniversary Leader

2010-03-12T12:45:00.000-05:00

M.D. Stetson Recognized for Environmental Leadership
Mass.-made products improve public health in schools, universities and municipalities
LOWELL, Mass. – Fifteen years ahead of the “green” revolution, a small company in Randolph, Mass., M.D. Stetson, re-formulated a line of janitorial cleaning products without hazardous chemicals.
Today, the Company that employs 45 people is one of 17 Massachusetts companies being recognized by legislators and the Toxics Use Reduction Act (TURA) Program as a “TURA 20th Anniversary Leader.” The awards and facility tours are intended to showcase environmental accomplishments—use of safer materials, waste reductions and energy savings—since the Toxics Use Reduction Act was enacted in 1989.
“We selected M.D. Stetson for its foresight and dedication in supplying public schools, universities and municipalities with green cleaning solutions way ahead of the spike in awareness of green products,” said Jason Marshall, laboratory director of the Toxics Use Reduction Institute at UMass Lowell, who provided the third party performance testing of M.D. Stetson’s cleaning products. “The company was proactive in developing the market, asking customers to try the safer products while still supplying the traditional products. Changing the mindset of customers demonstrates the depth of the company’s leadership.”
The changes made by M.D. Stetson have been cost neutral, while providing many positive health and environmental impacts and, often, better performance. Since 1993, the company has reduced its use of glycol ethers from 176,000 to 75,000 lbs. and expects to eliminate the use of the solvents within the next few years. According to the EPA, short-term exposure to high levels of glycol ethers in humans results in narcosis, pulmonary edema, and severe liver and kidney damage. Long-term exposure may result in neurological and blood effects, including fatigue, nausea, tremor, and anemia.
“I am honored to accept this award and recognition on behalf of my employees and customers,” said president of M.D. Stetson Michael Glass. “I’ve always been proud of our company for doing what’s right and manufacturing and selling our products here in Massachusetts. Eighty percent of American jobs are with small businesses like ours.”

For a full schedule of company tours, visit the TURI website.

Lab update of activities for February 2010

2010-03-12T12:06:00.002-05:00

Green Cleaning Testing
Site Visits
Toluene replacement piloted
The company was visited last week and a walk-through of the process was conducted. Talked to the managers of the project about adhesion testing results which resulted in some tests that they were going to run and have those parts tested for adhesion to see where the issue is with the cleaning. Plans were made to drop off samples of one other aqueous cleaner as well as an Activeion unit for them to try this week and continue to work on the substitution.

Scheduled visit with cable manufacturing company
We will get to see the new PVC cleaning system in action.
There will be a discussion about another project they want the lab to work on.
The idea of creating a case study with them and their other facility about moving from mechanical cleaning to chemical and how it went over all.

Site visit being scheduled with a tool manufacturer
The visit will focus on their switch from TCE to nPB and to talk about the new Massachusetts cold solvent regulations and to get them in compliance. We will be talking about working on a case study of their decrease in chemical use and waste disposal after switching to nPB. They are down 25% in their chemical use. They are also interested in any other TUR ideas they can work on. Going to talk to them about moving some of their vapor degreasing to aqueous for the less geometric parts.

Product Performance Testing
The lab has been working with three manufacturers of janitorial/household cleaners. Testing has been conducted to help these products get Green Seal and/or EPA DfE certification/recognition. Areas of testing included this month: all purpose, bathroom, glass, manual dishwashing, carpet stain cleaning, floor finish durability. Overall, the lab has worked with 8 companies since July and conducted 40 trials (no change from last month as many of the projects are gathering materials for testing discussed in Jan and Feb).

Participated in call with EPA DfE Safer Labeling program to talk about what lab does for performance testing. Lab will be working on helping the DfE program to improve wording used in their methodology.

Contacted ASTM to participate in the development of new cleaning standard for kitchen cleaning – replacing hard surface/wall cleaning standard that was dropped by ASTM.

Email discussion with Green Seal about work practices of the lab and test methods utilized for their cleaning standards.

Database
Updated testing data for January and February.
Added resource links to ToxServices for DfE program on both the TURI Lab page and CleanerSolutions database.

Outreach
Working on the 20th anniversary tour stop at MD Stetson on March 15. See next post for more details.

Contacted by a couple of companies to help with Earth day celebrations. Investing which will be best bang for the buck for the lab and TURI.

Status of How Effective Are ‘Green’ Cleaners?
The partnership to promote the work that the lab does in testing safer products:
Article "Measuring Green Cleaning" for Cleaning and Maintenance Magazine.
First High Performance Cleaning Product column in Executive Housekeeping Today (IEHA) about Activeion in April.
Press release from IEHA on TURI cleaning methods: ISSA and CMM

Disinfection Testing Partnership within UML SHE
Nancy Goodyear in Clinical Science labs on the UML campus met with TURI Lab and Dr. Quinn to discuss possible collaboration. The meeting resulted in a strong interest from Nancy. The partnership will start out by looking at how to compare the ATP measurement with traditional analytical methods for biological evaluations.

Lab update of activities for January 2010

2010-01-28T11:17:00.001-05:00

Green Cleaning Testing
Site Visits
The toluene replacement is being piloted on site for one of the four products identified by the lab. They are working on adhesion control. There are plans in the works for a return visit to assist on the project.

An additional site visit is being coordinated for next month for the cable cleaning project.

The lab has been working with three manufacturers of janitorial/household cleaners. Testing has been conducted to help these products get Green Seal and/or EPA DfE certification/recognition. Areas of testing included this month: all purpose, bathroom, glass, manual dishwashing, carpet stain cleaning, floor finish durability.

Overall, the lab has worked with 8 companies since July and conducted 40 trials.

Database
The plan to link the products with the various cleaning standards or certifications has been completed internally but there has been no work done on making these links “live”. Furthermore, there are still plans to create a separate interface for janitorial products.

Outreach
The lab is working on a couple of articles looking at how well green cleaners really work. The paper will be based on the testing program that the lab uses to assess products.

Status of How Effective Are ‘Green’ Cleaners?
The IEHA/TURI Partnership has changed direction and will not be recognizing high performing products using a formal logo for use on products or product packaging. However, the partnership will still promote the work that the lab does in testing safer products.

As part of the strategy to promote the IEHA/TURI Program industry-wide, an article on why testing for performance is important will be run in the Cleaning and Maintenance Management magazine. In addition, as the first installment of a regular column in Executive Housekeeping Today highlighting High Performance Cleaning Products (HPCP). This will provide solid science-based information to the IEHA members.

Disinfection Testing Partnership within UML School of Health and Environment (SHE)
The project has not been laid to rest just yet. A new connection with the SHE is being investigated. The Dean of SHE has expressed an interest in the project and will try to assist in getting a partner. Dr. Quinn from Work Environment also is looking into other partner. In the meantime the lab is starting a preliminary study on the use of an ATP measurement device donated to the lab. Three students (2 from TURI lab and 1 WE capstone program) are ready to start working on the project.

Lab update of activities for December 2009

2009-12-22T13:43:00.003-05:00

Green Cleaning Testing
The lab is assisting several companies in their search for safer cleaning methods. One company is looking to replace toluene in its pre-painting operation. The lab has conducted bench testing and some basic piloting of the top products. The company is going to start evaluating these products on-site in January.

The wax removal project started back in October found a couple of options. While the lab has been waiting for sample parts, the company has taken the successful results and applied the testing methods on-site, using other products. They were getting good results with simply boiling water, skimming the wax off the top, then adding cleaner to the boiling pot to remove the rest of the wax.

We are getting ready to work with a LED company to replace acetone in their cleaning process. Representatives from the company came to the TURI Lab to discuss the project.

The site visit at the company looking for assistance in reducing the use of nPB in its aircraft parts manufacturing facility took place and the lab’s objective was to identify possible non-aqueous wipe solvents. Testing is ongoing.

In addition to the end users of safer cleaning products, the lab has been working with a couple of manufacturers of janitorial/household cleaners. Testing has been conducted to help these products get Green Seal and EPA DfE certification/recognition.

Overall, the lab has worked with 7 companies since July and conducted 34 trials.

Database
More work has been done to try and provide end users with a way to easily identify products that have received performance testing for janitorial applications. The plan will be to link the products with certifications to the testing we have conducted for these products. The testing will include all of the relevant testing beyond the minimum testing required for certification, allowing the end user to get a better idea of how well these products work.

Material Safety Data and Technical Data sheet links were checked to determine which products needed new MSDS/TDSs or if the vendor contact information was up to date. Early next year the lab will begin to reach out to vendors to get newer products listed in the database.

Outreach
The lab presented at the TURA 20th anniversary symposium held in early November. The topic focused on how the lab’s hands-on assistance has increased how many companies have adopted the changes we have identified for them. Before the hands-on assistance the lab had a 30% adoption rate, after changing the program, 80% adoption.

The lab is working on a couple of articles looking at how well green cleaners really work. The paper will be based on the testing program that the lab uses to assess products.

Can Household Cleaners Be Making You Sick?

2009-10-27T09:10:00.012-04:00

The TURI Lab was recently interviewed by WBZ TV Channel 4 for a piece on safer cleaning products. The segment aired November 10.

Interviewed by Prevention Magazine on laundry cleaners and dryer sheets.

How Effective Are ‘Green’ Cleaners?

2009-10-27T08:06:00.007-04:00

We have established a partnership with the International Executive Housekeeping Association (IEHA) to promote cleaning products that are both green and effective. The TURI Lab will test and validate high performance products.

The fee-based program will test soil removal efficacy of hard-surface cleaning products—both those certified as green by third-party organizations such as Green Seal, EcoLogo, EPA DfE and EcoForm, as well as products with green attributes—and recognize products that perform well in standard and customized cleaning tests.

Products accepted into the program will be tested using a variety of scientific methods and devices producing a detailed analysis of product performance. Manufacturers can use this information to improve their formulations as well as promote their products. Manufacturers of cleaning products that qualify after testing will be entitled to display the IEHA "High Performance Cleaning Product" designation and logo.

For more information on test procedures, performance benchmarks, or to apply for testing, please contact us.

TURI Lab Video - What we do, how we do it.

2009-10-13T10:31:00.003-04:00

A short video on the services the lab can provide to companies looking to have the there green cleaners evaluated for performance.

Lab update of activities for October 2009

2009-10-09T09:01:00.004-04:00

Green Cleaning Testing
We are currently working on a wax removal project for a company that makes glass capillary tubes. Testing has found a couple of aqueous based cleaners that work well in conjunction with heat and ultrasonic energy. The next steps will be to test on dirty parts.

Overall, the lab has worked with 4 companies and conducted 15 trials. Two site visits for new projects were scheduled recently. One was for a company that wanted to replace toluene for oil removal prior to painting. The second end user wanted assistance for reducing the use of nPB in its aircraft parts manufacturing facility.

Database
New products have been added to the database. Uploading testing information will take place by the end of the October. Plans to move ahead with a Janitorial/Household interface have resurfaced again. Stay tuned...

Outreach
A training for janitorial service providers was given at the MA Operational Service Division. The session provided basic information about Green Seal's GS 42 and ISSA Cleaning Industry Management Standard. The powerpoint slides are available at the Lab section of the TURI website under the Going Green for Cleaning.

The lab has been serving on the steering committee for the upcoming Process Cleaning Conference. The scope of sessions has been the focus of the group so far.

The lab will have a chapter in the 2nd edition of the Handbook of Critical Cleaning. The chapter looks at metal cleaning and how to select, test and implement safer cleaning products.

The lab staff attended the ISSA Interclean conference in Chicago, IL. The lab was there to encourage manufacturer's of safer cleaning products to get their products tested for performance. The lab participated in the International Executive Housekeepers Association's conference that was running concurrent to the ISSA show.

TURI Status
TURI has received funding from the University of Massachusetts Lowell that will allow the Institute to continue work through June 2010.

TURI Lab Video

2009-10-09T08:55:00.002-04:00

In partnership with the International Executive Housekeepers Association, the TURI Lab has put together a short video on what the lab can do for safer cleaning product performance testing. Take a look at the video: At YouTube and/or on the TURI site for the lab

Lab update of activities for Summer 2009

2009-08-25T08:23:00.011-04:00

Green Cleaning Testing

During the summer we have worked with a couple of vendors to evaluate the performance of their products.

One of these companies requested testing for three of their automatic dish washing powder formulations. Testing followed ASTM D3556 using the two food based soils described within the standard. Additional testing was conducting using the lab's procedure for dish washer testing using ceramic, stainless steel and glass coupons soiled with a modified Hucker's soil.

Later on the same company requested testing for three more products. These were tested for Fryer cleaning, greasy floor cleaning and coffee equipment cleaning. The greasy floor testing followed CSPA DCC17. The other two cleaner performance followed the lab's general testing procedures.

The second company wanted testing conducted for all purpose cleaning performance for Green Seal's GS 37 standard. Four products were tested on the modified Hucker's soil using ceramic, painted steel and plastic coupons. A follow test was conducted to determine the effectiveness of the products for removing hard water stains. This was accomplished by running a marble block test, where a piece of marble is immersed into each product to determine weight loss. The greater the weight loss, the more effective the product will be at removing hard water stains.

Database
The latest update of data to the website CleanerSolutions was conducted on August 10th. Plans are set for student interns to work on evaluating products based on search logs from the site. We will look at what users of the database have been looking for and not finding. With this information, students will test products to fill in these gaps.

Outreach
The lab has submitted the latest edits for chapter in the 2nd edition of the Handbook of Critical Cleaning. The chapter will focus on metal cleaning and how to select, test and implement safer cleaning products. Several case studies will be included on companies the we helped in the past year and a half.

The partnership for the disinfection-sanitation performance testing lab within the School of Health and Environment at UMass Lowell is moving ahead. We are getting ready to begin pilot testing of various products.

The lab has been serving on the steering committee for the upcoming Process Cleaning Conference. The conference is being put together upon the realization that the cleaning industry has been void of any type of trade show in North America for 8 years. PCX will be the only event in North America dedicated to cleaning within the manufacturing process.

The lab will be at a solvent symposium in Marlboro, MA to discuss how we can help companies find safer alternatives to solvents in cleaning applications.

TUR Planner Course
The work the lab does will be integrated into the TUR Planner course. The session will look at how to use the CleanerSolutions database for screening products for safety and performance and how to use P2OASys for a more comprehensive safety profile.

TURI Status Still Uncertain
The situation regarding the state funding TURI receives still has not been fixed. Currently the University has been able to provide funding to keep the Institute up and running on a reduced staff and scope of work.

The lab is still running testing for both end users and for vendors. We are investigating possible partnerships with trade associations that may help to generate funding opportunities.

We will keep you up to date once we know more.

Lab update of activities for June 2009

2009-07-17T08:15:00.013-04:00

Alternative Cleaning Testing
As our fiscal year finished up, the TURI Lab had a very successful year. We met out goal of working with 25 companies. We conducted 125 cleaning trials for these companies. Our students also conducted 35 cleaning trials based on search requests from the CleanerSolutions website.

Our most recent project evaluated the performance of a new aerosol cleaning product line. The testing compared this new set of safer cleaning products against several other product lines for cleaning performance, odor, residue, gloss, and vertical cling. The Aspire products were as effective as the traditional aerosol formulations in many of the tests.

Another project evaluated the performance of automatic dish washing soaps. These products were compared against an industry standard product. These products were tested following ASTM D3556 Deposition on Glassware During Mechanical Dishwashing and the labs modified version of ASTM G122 Evaluating the Effectiveness of Cleaning Agents.

Students in the lab continued our testing on the Do-it-Yourself cleaning recipes.

Database
The CleanerSolutions database had features added through out the past 12 months. A new Contact the Lab feature was added, making it easier for end users to get their questions answered. An on-line survey was created that should help us continue to make changes based on the needs of the database users.

A new search feature is just being fined tuned that will allow for searching based on part descriptions.

As of now the database contains testing results for 1,860 trials run at the TURI Lab since 1993. That's about a 115 trials a year or about 1 trial every 3 days for 16 years.

Since January 2009, there have been 58,000 searches conducted using the database. From June to July, there have been 2500 visitors to the site from all 50 states and the District of Columbia as well as 76 other countries/territories.

Outreach
The lab is currently working on a chapter for the 2nd edition of the Handbook of Critical Cleaning. The chapter will focus on metal cleaning and how to select, test and implement safer cleaning products. Several case studies will be included on companies the we helped in the past year and a half.

We are still working on the setting up a disinfection-sanitation performance testing lab within the School of Health and Environment at UMass Lowell.

The lab has been asked to serve on the steering committee for the upcoming Process Cleaning Conference. The conference is being put together upon the realization that the cleaning industry has been void of any type of trade show in North America for 8 years. PCX will be the only event in North America dedicated to cleaning within the manufacturing process.

Presentations were given in 2008-9 at ASM's Heat Treating symposium in October, TUR Planner continuing education conference in November and at the Kansas State University Pollution Prevention Institute Seminar in March.

New Cleaning Process
We have two Active Ion units in the lab and will begin testing for performance this fall. We hope to include this product as part of pilot for the disinfection-sanitation performance testing lab.

TURI Status in Question

2009-07-01T13:31:00.003-04:00

For those of you following the TURI Lab on our blog, we thought we would take a second to let you know that our state funding may have been eliminated for the next fiscal year. Read the article in the Boston Globe.

We will keep you up to date once we know more.

Lab update of activities for May 2009

2009-05-21T11:52:00.006-04:00

Alternative Cleaning Testing
We have surpassed our goal of working with 25 companies. We have worked with 27 companies and run over 100 cleaning trials since July 1, 2008.

Most recently we evaluated a product for Green Seal's GS 41 Hand Cleaners and Hand Soaps Used for Industrial & Institutional Purposes. We put together a video clip of the process

Database
Still working on adding new features to the CleanerSolutions database.

The P2OASys data links for cleaning products is up and running for about 100 products. Here is an example of one product with P2OASys data

Outreach
We are putting together a new lab brochure on services provided.

Planning a meeting with others on UML campus looking into setting up a disinfection-sanitation performance testing lab.

Lab Equipment
Getting trained on new analytical equipment, BYK Gardner Spectro Guide

Lab update of activities for April 2009

2009-04-15T12:27:00.004-04:00

Alternative Cleaning Testing
Two more companies have had testing done for them. Currently we are working on evaluating the performance of a dish washing detergent for EPA's DFE formulator program.

Do It Yourself Household cleaners
“What Does This Mean” section now populated with information. We have added to other resources as well.

A short video also has been added for the DIY testing process

Database
Working on Search Wizard to help users when using the database.
Working on a P2OASys data links for cleaning products – up and running
We created a feedback survey on the TURI site to provide a way for users to make suggestions on new features they would like to see.

New Cleaning Processes
We have a new dishwasher unit installed. No more washing our glassware by hand.

A representative from Activeion came in to show us their hand held ionizing cleaning product that recently received EPA certification for sterilization.

More on the DIY Household Cleaners

2009-04-10T11:36:00.002-04:00

We have added to the health and safety pages for the ingredients. The "What does this mean?" summaries have been populated for all the ingredients. In addition, material safety data sheet links have been added for some of the products that have been tested in the lab.

Plans are in the works to restart the testing of the remaining formulations. Stay tuned.

CleanerSolutions In The Mom’s Guide to Growing Your Family Green

2009-03-25T09:04:00.008-04:00

The lab's database is referenced in The Mom’s Guide to Growing Your Family Green: Saving the Earth Begins at Home (St. Martin’s Press), by author Terra Wellington. The first how-to book for everyday parents on saving the environment and improving the health and safety of their families hit bookshelves March 17, 2009.

The mention in the manuscript is a recommendation to use the CleanerSolutions Database to determine the greenness and safety of cleaning products in the cleaning chapter of the book.

Do-it-Yourself Household Cleaning Recipes

2009-03-23T12:16:00.002-04:00

Recently articles on the DIY cleaning recipe work conducted at the TURI Lab:

The UMass Lowell Toxics Use Reduction Institute recently demonstrated for The Sun how it tests various solutions for safety and cleaning effectiveness.

Brazilian Women's Group work

Lab update of activities for March 2009

2009-03-23T08:39:00.008-04:00

Alternative Cleaning Testing
Testing has finally slowed down. No new companies worked with the lab this past month. We did run some testing for companies already working with the lab.

We are working on case studies documenting the work we have accomplished with several of the companies. The reports are currently being reviewed internally by the TURI staff.

Product Certification Testing
Several companies have been working with the lab to have products evaluated for performance so that the products can be certified by various environmental standards. Testing has been conducted for Green Seal certification for GS 8, 34 and 37. Additional work has been done for product certification for EPA's DfE Formulators project.

Database
Work is continuing on the Search Wizard. Preliminary links to TURI's P2OASys data links for cleaning products have been added. This will give the end users more access to health and safety information for alternative cleaning products.

Outreach
Presented at KSU workshop in Wichita – 3/10/09 on database and lab services. Nearly 80 people were in attendance. A couple of the vendors contacted the lab about getting their products listed on the site.

The lab has been asked to write a chapter in the Handbook for Critical Cleaning, edited by Barbara and Ed Kanegsberg from CRC Press. The chapter will document the lab's success in assisting companies in the search for a safer and effective cleaning product.

Strategic Planning for Next Fiscal Year
Work has begun for next year's plans for the lab. In the works: a hands on workshop held at the the TURI Lab; an on-line P2OASys interface; and a possible disinfection assessment partnership established on the UML campus within the School of Health and Environment.

Reducing Solvent Emissions, Green Practices to Improve Air Quality

2009-03-08T18:21:00.007-04:00

Kansas State University Pollution Prevention Institute Seminar

On Tuesday, March 10, a presentation will be given on the lab's process of assisting companies looking to find safer cleaning chemicals. An overview of the CleanerSolutions database will be given.

To find out more about this presentation check here.

Lab update of activities for January 2009

2009-02-03T08:20:00.005-05:00

Alternative Cleaning Testing

We have been busy this year having run 91 trials for 23 companies. Last year at this time we had run 44 trials for 15 companies. We are working on follow up projects for two wire and cable companies and have started working with a light bulb manufacturer.

The six case studies are still being worked on. One of these, looking at how the database can help companies find safer alternatives is nearing completion. Three others are ready to begin the internal review process.

Product Certification Testing
Several companies have been working with the lab to have products evaluated for performance so that the products can be certified by various environmental standards. Testing has been conducted for Green Seal certification for GS 8, 34 and 37. Additional work has been done for product certification for EPA's DfE Formulators project.

DIY Household cleaners
We are working on a “What Does This Mean” section to help people understand the health and safety information on the various ingredients of these recipes and how recipes compare to traditional cleaners. We have conducted lab testing on more recipes for performance. These recipes are used by the Brazilian Women's Group Co-op to support Brazilian house cleaners in their professions while creating community and promoting healthy and environmentally-friendly methods.

Database
Plans are in the works to start adding new features to the CleanerSolutions site. We are working on Search Wizard that will help guide users on how to select a cleaning process that will be best suited to their needs. In addition, we are adding more information on the health and safety of cleaning products beyond our five point screening process.

Outreach
The lab may be presenting on the database and other lab services at an upcoming event during March for Kansas State University Pollution Prevention Institute located in Wichita. The event is targeted at aerospace, auto body,printers, and misc solvent cleaners. The goal will be teaching participants how they can reduce solvent emission by changing the process, technology, and/or material.

Lab update of activities for December 2008

2008-12-11T10:33:00.012-05:00

Alternative Cleaning Testing
We have run 67 trials for 18 companies. These include a machine construction company, a machining company; a tool manufacturer; numerous chemical companies, mostly vendors of products looking for Green Seal certification; a nano-chemical manufacturing company (boron) who has decided upon an aqueous cleaning product; and an electronics manufacturer.

Six case studies are in the works. Many of the companies have provided additional on-site testing results which we are currently working on to included in the papers.

One case study is for a company that is switching to using green seal floor stripper on their parts. This will replace their current mechanical process. Based on the success of the project, the company is currently working on a new cleaning project with lab.

A second case study was focused on replacing IPA for specialty glass cleaning. The lab had identified a potential cleaner that was being piloted by the company. The company got feedback from their customers that there was now issues with the a haze forming on the surface. The lab and the company are continuing to look for pH neutral alternative glass cleaner.

Product Certification Testing
Several companies have been working with the lab to have products evaluated for performance so that the products can be certified by various environmental standards. Testing has been conducted for Green Seal certification for GS 8, 34 and 37. Additional work has been done for product certification for EPA's DfE Formulators project.

CleanerSolutions Database
The CleanerSolutions database was recently updated with the latest batch of testing results for end users and vendor projects. In addition, minor changes to the layout of the home page have been completed. In the works will be the addition of a guided search that will help users in a stepwise manner determine what type of cleaning equipment and chemistry would best suit their needs.

Outreach
The participated in the recent TURI Continuing Education Conference held November 20 in Framingham. The session the lab ran included information on the lab's services and the CleanerSolutions database.

TURI Continuing Education Conference

2008-11-19T12:18:00.002-05:00

TCE Substitutions
The TURI Laboratory will discuss options for those companies using TCE (now a higher hazard chemical) for cleaning applications. The results of projects attempting to replace TCE in cleaning applications will be discussed and case studies presented on how the lab provides technical assistance in the lab and on site.

For more on the conference

Heat Treat Symposium

2008-10-31T12:49:00.002-04:00

On October 29th and 30th the lab presented on two topics at the ASM Heat Treat Symposium focused on cleaning. First, the lab talked about how the lab's provides technical service to companies looking to find a safer cleaning process. On the second day, an over view of the lab's database, CleanerSolutions, was presented to the attendees.

About 50 people were there from various heat treating companies and academic groups.

Lab update of activities for October 2008

2008-10-27T14:55:00.002-04:00

Alternative Cleaning Testing
We have run 50 trials for 11 companies. These include Machine Construction Company; Machining Company; Tool Manufacturer; 4 Chemical Companies; Nano manufacturing (boron); Electronics Mfr.

We were lucky enough to be able to conduct some testing off site at Dawson-MacDonald for laser ablation evaluation. The testing was conducted by Adapt Laser Mid Atlantic. This process was successful cleaning method for the ceramic parts coated with carbon deposits in wafer manufacturing process.
We are nearly half way to our goal of working with 25 companies in FY 09.

Case Studies for 5 companies are in the works. Three of these are currently being reviewed by the companies.

DIY Household Cleaners
We have completed preliminary EHS profile of various components that can be used to make your own cleaning products. We are working on “What Does This Mean” section to help you understand what the material safety data sheet information is trying to tell you about the chemicals. We reworked layout of EHS web pages. Our plans are to conduct more lab performance testing of the formulations.

Outreach
We recently sent out a lab newsletter. Are you interested in signing up to receive this? Let us know

The lab will be at the Cleaning Requirements for Heat Treatment: Developments & Applications sponsored by ASM Heat Treating Society on October 29-30, 2008 at WPI. We will be presenting on the lab's assistance process and the on-line cleaning results database, CleanerSolutions.

Database
We are currently in the process of adding updates and new features to the database as well. Stay tuned.

Database Training Videos

2008-10-01T13:00:00.002-04:00

The new lab training videos on how to use the database search features are now on the CleanerSolutions website. Check them out...

Lab update of activities for September 2008

2008-09-24T13:35:00.004-04:00

Alternative Cleaning Testing
We have conducted 36 trials for 8 companies. The general types of companies we have worked with this month include: Machine Construction Company; Machining Company; Tool Manufacturer; 3 Chemical Companies; Nano manufacturing
5 Case Studies in the works.

DIY Household cleaners
Completed preliminary EHS profile of components. Now working on “What Does This Mean” section to help with interpreting data.
We will be conducting more lab testing for performance soon. We also will be having volunteers test these formulations in their homes.

Contract Testing
Conducted follow up testing for product trying to pass Green Seal GS37 and GS 8 standards

Outreach
Cleaning Requirements for Heat Treatment: Developments & Applications
ASM Heat Treating Society
October 29-30, 2008
Worcester Polytechnic Institute

TURI Continuing Education Conference
Framingham, MA
November 20, 2008

Visit by EPA Region 1 to lab to discuss work on TCE grant in Rhode Island
Summary of work: 12 companies
26,000 pounds of TCE being used before working with us
Now less than 7,000 pounds
Read more on this project

Database - CleanerSolutions
Contract in place to begin work on adding new features

Upcoming Events for Lab staff

2008-09-11T14:01:00.004-04:00

At the end of October, the lab will be presenting at the ASM Heat Treating Society's
Cleaning Requirements for Heat Treatment: Development & Applications at WPI, Worcester, MA.

Learn the latest developments in cleaning requirements, technologies and evaluation methods from the experts in heat treating. Go to their site to learn more.

In November the lab will be doing a session at the TURI Continuing Education Conference in Framingham, MA. The materials covered will focus on the high hazard chemicals, specifically TCE. More information...

TCE Reduction in RI

2008-09-02T12:54:00.004-04:00

Some of the information from the lab's second year working with the EPA Region 1 to reduce the use of TCE in RI companies has been made available on our TURI web pages.

So far in the two years the TURI Lab has been working with companies in RI, we have been able to reduce TCE usage by 57%. Of the 41,000 lbs of TCE being used by the companies we have worked with, in two years we have helped eliminate 23,600 lbs.

Second Year TCE work in RI

Biobased Facility Maintenance

2008-08-28T12:35:00.003-04:00

Information now available on our website about facility maintenance using biobased materials for floor finish stripping and hard surface cleaning. Read more on this topic...

Lab update of activities for August 2008

2008-08-20T08:13:00.007-04:00

Status of lab projects we have been working on:
Alternative Cleaning Testing
We have conducted 27 trials for 7 companies. The general types of companies we have worked with this month include: Machine Construction Company; Machining Company; Tool Manufacturer; 3 Chemical Companies; Nano manufacturing

We are wrapping up work for 5 companies.

DIY Household cleaners
Completed EHS profile of components
Will conduct more lab testing for performance
Heidi will coordinate testing at home by TURI staff.
Posted information to website: Do it yourself home made household cleaner recipes

Contract Testing
Vendor contract testing for Green Seal GS 37 standard for 2 companies.

Outreach
ISSA Conference/mailing
Heidi attending second week of September (9/8-9/12)

Cleaning Requirements for Heat Treatment: Developments & Applications
ASM Heat Treating Society
October 29-30, 2008
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Both of us are speaking at conference
Member of the technical committee

Mobile Lab magnetic decal for site visit

Database - CleanerSolutions
Working on new updates and trouble shooting existing problems
New training videos on how to use database

TURI Lab has New Mobile Lab (Sort Of)

2008-08-18T17:49:00.011-04:00

While the TURI lab works on funding for an actual mobile lab, the lab has been using lab technician and field implementation specialist Heidi Wilcox's Saturn Vue for the last two years as the unofficial mobile lab.

Heidi will be trading in the Saturn Vue, which has high miles on it, for a new, used 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. It has much fewer miles and is a nice grey green color. The rear seats are removable so there will be no problem carrying equipment to companies. The Cruiser also gets better gas mileage than the Vue so we are going a little greener.

Eventually, our goal is to move up to an RV size moblie lab (see below) to facilitate easier on-site assistance to companies. Why? One of the biggest stumbling blocks associated with surface cleaning alternatives assessment is the time spent gathering and sending samples off to the laboratory to be tested and then waiting for the parts to be returned for in-house assessment. If the alternative did not work, the entire process of gather and sending samples usually has to be repeated. Over time, the flow of testing and information can become less of a priority as other non-cleaning projects arise during the down time of testing.

Through initial site visits to companies, the delivery of collected materials is facilitated by the lab personnel. The materials are taken back to the lab at the end of the site visit. This process has been found to improve the initial round of testing and keeps the project going on faster pace allowing increased potential for implementation of testing results. However, there still exists the time lag when sending products back to the client for in-house inspections and retesting if necessary. This allows the same back-shelf mentality to develop. Having testing capabilities available on-site of the client will allow for alternative assessment to proceed rapidly without losing any of the quality provided by a fixed laboratory.

The mobile laboratory would expand TURI’s capabilities on testing, demonstration, and training expertise to out-of-state audiences. Outfitted with state-of-the-art cleaning equipment, the Mobile Lab would use company parts/soils to assess cleaning and provide real-time evaluations of “greener” products. Target audiences would include businesses and other organizations that lack the time, resources, and expertise to conduct evaluations of “green” alternatives. Finally, the Mobile Lab would operate as a roving training/demonstration site for regional trade organizations, government facilities, regulatory staff, and community groups.

The TURI Lab continues to seek out funding opportunities to finance this end endeavor. Please contact us if you have any interest in this project.

Possible Layout for Mobile Lab

GreenWise Market

2008-08-14T13:54:00.004-04:00

The lab's cleaning program is quoted in Publix GreenWise Market August 2008 issue.
Take a peek...GreenWise What on Earth?

Do-it-Yourself Household Cleaning Recipes

2008-08-04T13:55:00.010-04:00

The TURI Lab is working on putting together a list of Do-it-Yourself (DIY) recipes that you can use for household cleaning. Ingredients will be based on typical ingredients you find in your home. In addition, the lab will be testing how well these products work. Basic health and safety information will be linked to each of the components of the recipe. Let us know if you have a DIY recipe you want us to evaluate. Recipes and health information are now available Do-it-Yourself Household Cleaners

Plans for the upcoming year

2008-08-01T09:36:00.003-04:00

As always, July brings on our new fiscal year where we set out our goals for the year and start new projects.

Projects for this year will include:

Industrial Cleaning Assitance - continue with on site assistance with companies

Janitorial Cleaning Evaluations - test products for performance based on Green Seal GS 37 standard

Updating CleanerSolutions database with new features, improving existing features

Work on funding source for possible Mobile Cleaning Lab to better facilitate on-site assistance and trainings on surface cleaning

Choosing a Safer Cleaning Product

2008-08-01T08:05:00.002-04:00

Read the article on our safety screening process. This article was published in Process Cleaning magazine in March/April 2008 issue. Choosing a New Cleaning Product Based on Environmental, Health and Safety Issues

Janitorial Cleaning

2008-07-31T11:53:00.006-04:00

We put out a new mailing to companies that make "Green" cleaners. We are letting them know what we can provide independent evaluation of the products performance. The resulting information can be used as part of the Green Seal certification process.

See our brochure

So far we have had three companies contact us for testing their products.

What are we doing in July 2008

2008-07-31T11:28:00.016-04:00

Currently we are wrapping up working on a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The grant is focused on providing assistance to companies in the Rhode Island that are using Trichloroethylene (TCE) for cleaning applications. The goal of the project is to reduce the amount of TCE being used by replacing with safer cleaning products or procedures. This project will be finishing in September 2008.

For more on TCE

Cleaning Database

2008-07-31T11:23:00.015-04:00

Over the years we have compiled testing data on hundreds of cleaning products.

The database is known as the CleanerSolutions database and can be found on-line at:

www.cleanersolutions.org

For those of you that have used EPA sponsored Solvent Alternative Guide (SAGE) from the Research Triangle Institute and are looking for a replacement tool, CleanerSolutions may be what you are looking for.

Read excerpt from dissertation on the creation of this database: CleanerSolutions A Tool For Toxics Use Reduction Through Solvent Substitution In Surface Cleaning Applications. Want more on this? Email me.

Find out how to use the database using our You Tube videos

For more training
videos go to our main
website

Cleaner Cleaning at the Toxics Use Reduction Institute

2008-07-31T11:07:00.004-04:00

Welcome to the TURI Lab blog.

We will be providing updates on what we have been working on for safer cleaning practices.

To learn more about us, visit our website at the Toxics Use Reduction Institute:

TURI Lab