The degreasing powder AR-815 is a strongly alkaline industrial cleaning agent, and the pH value of its 1% aqueous solution is as high as 12.0–13.5. According to the product safety data sheet, this product has been officially classified as a dangerous chemical, with hazard pictograms GHS05 (corrosive) and GHS07 (exclamation mark), and the signal word is "Danger". This means that during normal use, if appropriate personal protection is lacking, it may cause clear harm to the human body.
Specifically, this product has three types of clear hazards to the human body: Skin corrosion/irritation (Category 2)——contact can cause skin redness, swelling, burning pain, and even chemical burns; Serious eye damage/eye irritation (Category 1)——this is the highest level of eye damage classification, and splashing into the eyes can cause irreversible corneal damage or even blindness; Respiratory tract irritation (Category 3)——dust or mist generated during operation, if inhaled, may cause coughing, throat irritation, and respiratory discomfort, and long-term or high-concentration exposure poses a risk of delayed pulmonary edema. The product contains sodium carbonate, sodium metasilicate pentahydrate, and surfactants (fatty alcohol polyoxyethylene ether, sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate), all of which are confirmed irritants.
During operation, it is necessary to wear alkali-resistant protective gloves (nitrile or neoprene material, thickness not less than 0.4mm), sealed chemical splash goggles or a full-face shield, and use in a well-ventilated area. In case of skin or eye contact, immediately rinse with plenty of running water for at least 15–20 minutes and seek emergency medical attention without delay.
The environmental impact of degreasing powder AR-815 is mainly reflected in its high alkalinity characteristics. The product safety data sheet clearly indicates that high-pH wastewater has acute toxicity and chronic inhibitory effects on aquatic organisms (including fish, plankton, and benthic organisms). Even after dilution, if the cleaning wastewater without neutralization treatment enters natural water bodies, it will drastically change the acid-base balance of the local waters, disrupting the normal functions of the aquatic ecosystem.
In addition, the product formulation contains sodium tripolyphosphate as a water softener and dispersant, which, when discharged in large quantities, may exacerbate the eutrophication process of receiving water bodies, indirectly leading to secondary ecological problems such as excessive algae growth and water hypoxia. Therefore, it is strictly prohibited to discharge used wastewater directly into municipal pipelines or natural water bodies without treatment. All cleaning wastewater must be collected and then undergo neutralization treatment (adjusting pH to the legal discharge standard range of 6–9) and professional wastewater treatment processes before being discharged in compliance. Waste products and contaminated containers must be classified, recycled, and disposed of according to hazardous waste regulations.
| Hazard category | Level/Description | Corresponding warning |
|---|---|---|
| Skin corrosion/irritation | Category 2 | H315: Causes skin irritation |
| Serious eye damage/eye irritation | Category 1 (highest level) | H318: Causes serious eye damage |
| Respiratory tract irritation | Category 3 | H335: May cause respiratory irritation |
| pH of 1% aqueous solution | 12.0–13.5 | Strongly alkaline, corrosive |
| Aquatic ecological impact | Acute/chronic inhibition | High pH harmful to aquatic organisms |
| Hazard pictograms | GHS05 + GHS07 | Corrosive + Health hazard |
| Signal word | Danger | — |
When using degreasing powder AR-815 for cleaning drill bits and metal workpieces, a strict dual management system of personal protection and environmental protection should be established:
Skin contact: Remove contaminated clothing, rinse with running water for at least 20 minutes, do not use hot water. Eye contact: Hold eyelids open, continuously rinse with water or saline for at least 15–20 minutes, call for emergency medical help, and do not delay. Inhalation: Move to fresh air, keep in a semi-sitting position; if breathing is difficult, immediately give oxygen and seek medical attention. Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth and give a small amount of water or milk (only if conscious), seek immediate medical attention and present this product safety data sheet.