Can You Make DIY Windshield Washer Fluid with 2-Butoxyethanol?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the formulation of DIY windshield washer fluid, specifically focusing on the use of 2-Butoxyethanol as a potential ingredient. Participants explore various alternatives and considerations for creating a safe and effective product for personal or commercial use.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose using 2-Butoxyethanol diluted with distilled or demineralised water for a DIY windshield washer fluid, questioning its effectiveness for summer use.
  • Concerns are raised about the hazards of handling 2-Butoxyethanol, with suggestions for safer alternatives such as vinegar and surfactants.
  • One participant expresses interest in developing a professional-grade product for detailing clients, emphasizing the importance of safety and research on chemical ingredients.
  • Another participant notes that 2-Butoxyethanol has been used in commercial products like Windex, but mentions a shift to 2-Hexoxyethanol in some formulations.
  • There is a discussion about the potential carcinogenic properties of 2-Butoxyethanol, with references to studies and regulatory perspectives on its safety for consumers.
  • Suggestions include experimenting with different mixing ratios and adding fragrances to enhance the product appeal without using hazardous chemicals.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the use of 2-Butoxyethanol, with some advocating for its use while others caution against it due to safety concerns. The discussion includes multiple competing views on alternative formulations and the implications of using potentially hazardous substances.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of consensus on the safety and efficacy of 2-Butoxyethanol, as well as the varying opinions on acceptable alternatives for windshield washer fluid. The discussion also reflects differing regulatory environments that may affect product formulation.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for DIY enthusiasts, detailing professionals, and individuals interested in chemical safety and product formulation in automotive care.

DumDum82
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I've been thinking of making DIY Windshield washer fluid. I was planning to source some 2-Butoxyethanol and mix it in with a 1% dilution with distilled or demineralised water (whichever I can get my hands on). Do you think that should make a good summer windshield washing fluid or am I missing something?

Is there something better than the 2-butoxyethanol I can use?
Thanks.
 
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DumDum82 said:
I've been thinking of making DIY Windshield washer fluid. I was planning to source some 2-Butoxyethanol and mix it in with a 1% dilution with distilled or demineralised water (whichever I can get my hands on). Do you think that should make a good summer windshield washing fluid or am I missing something?

Is there something better than the 2-butoxyethanol I can use?
Thanks.
Why this particular chemical? This stuff is hazardous to handle.

If you just got to make your own, here are some alternatives:

http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Windshield-Washer-Fluid
 
Thanks for the response!
Well, I'm also considering coming up with my own product to sell to my detailing clients. I want it to be professional - grade. If it turns out great, I'll package it and offer it to my customers.
 
DumDum82 said:
Thanks for the response!
Well, I'm also considering coming up with my own product to sell to my detailing clients. I want it to be professional - grade. If it turns out great, I'll package it and offer it to my customers.
You should do more research on the chemicals you plan to use.

Your potential customers would not appreciate being exposed to a suspected carcinogen, I expect:

http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/butoxyethanol/
 
2-Butoxyethanol has been used in many household and industrial cleaning products including Windex and the various knockoffs. Windex has been switched to 2-Hexoxyethanol. Does anyone know about this new solvent?

RE Carcinogen:

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378427404004655
There is evidence that it causes cancer in rats. They (the EPA) have yet to determine if it is a valid mechanism in humans.

BoB
 
DumDum82 said:
Thanks for the response!
Well, I'm also considering coming up with my own product to sell to my detailing clients. I want it to be professional - grade. If it turns out great, I'll package it and offer it to my customers.
SteamKing said:
You should do more research on the chemicals you plan to use.

Your potential customers would not appreciate being exposed to a suspected carcinogen, I expect:

http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/butoxyethanol/
Companies already exist which are prepared to do this.
 
DumDum82 said:
I've been thinking of making DIY Windshield washer fluid. I was planning to source some 2-Butoxyethanol and mix it in with a 1% dilution with distilled or demineralised water (whichever I can get my hands on). Do you think that should make a good summer windshield washing fluid or am I missing something?

Is there something better than the 2-butoxyethanol I can use?
Thanks.

Add some vinegar to water, add a fragrance. Try different mixing ratios. No carcinogens. Can you imagine trying to sell windshield washer fluid with 2-butoxyethanol in it in California?
 
Yeah, dilute white vinegar, add just a dash of some detergent/surfactant (washingup liquid), and why not, sure, a bit of fragrance for the feelgood factor, if this is to be a commercial product.
 
AgentSmith said:
Add some vinegar to water, add a...Can you imagine trying to sell windshield washer fluid with 2-butoxyethanol in it in California?

Easily! It is called "butyl cellosolve" and is very common in window cleaners.
 

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