Why Liquid CO2 Cleaning is Better for the Environment

By: Emergency Technical Decon Team

As industries worldwide work toward sustainability, businesses are reevaluating their processes to reduce environmental impact. For sectors that rely on cleaning specialized equipment—like firefighter turnout gear, industrial machinery, or sensitive electronics—the method used c Liquid CO2 cleaning is an innovative, eco-friendly approach that not only meets high-performance standards but also minimizes harm to the environment.

The Environmental Challenges of Traditional Cleaning Methods

Traditional cleaning techniques, while effective, come with hidden environmental costs. Methods such as dry cleaning, solvent-based cleaning, and high-temperature washing rely heavily on chemicals, energy, and water resources, contributing to pollution and resource depletion:

• Chemical Pollution: Many cleaners release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air or harmful chemicals into waterways, endangering both ecosystems and human health.
• High Water Usage: Conventional cleaning often uses vast amounts of water, straining an already overburdened freshwater supply in many regions.
• Energy-Intensive Processes: Heating water, running industrial washers, and treating wastewater consume significant amounts of energy, increasing carbon footprints.
• Hazardous Waste: Solvents and detergents generate toxic waste, which must be carefully managed to prevent environmental contamination.

These drawbacks underscore the need for innovative solutions that balance performance with sustainability.

How Liquid CO2 Cleaning Works

Liquid CO2 cleaning uses carbon dioxide in its liquid form as a cleaning agent. The CO2 is captured as a byproduct from other industrial processes, making this method part of a circular economy. When applied under controlled conditions, liquid CO2 penetrates surfaces to remove contaminants. After cleaning, the CO2 evaporates entirely, leaving no residue and requiring no additional rinsing or drying.This process achieves superior cleaning results while addressing many of the environmental concerns associated with traditional methods.

Why Liquid CO2 Cleaning is Better for the Environment

Liquid CO2 cleaning stands out for its minimal environmental impact compared to conventional cleaning approaches. Here’s why:

Chemical-Free Cleaning

Unlike solvent-based cleaners, liquid CO2 does not rely on harmful chemicals that release VOCs or pollute water sources. It’s a cleaner solution that prioritizes safety for both the environment and the user.

Water Conservation

Water is one of the planet’s most precious resources, yet traditional cleaning methods often waste millions of gallons annually. Liquid CO2 cleaning requires little to no water, making it a sustainable option for industries committed to reducing water usage.

No Hazardous Waste

After cleaning, the liquid CO2 evaporates without leaving harmful residues or wastewater behind. This eliminates the need for costly and environmentally damaging waste treatment, further enhancing its sustainability credentials.

Energy Efficiency

Heating water and powering industrial cleaning equipment demands high energy consumption. Liquid CO2 cleaning operates at relatively low temperatures, requiring far less energy and reducing the overall carbon footprint.

Recycled CO2

The CO2 used in liquid cleaning systems is repurposed from industrial emissions, preventing it from being released into the atmosphere. This recycling approach reduces greenhouse gas emissions and supports a circular economy by giving industrial byproducts a second life.

How Liquid CO2 Cleaning Revolutionizes Turnout Gear Maintenance in the Fire Industry

Liquid CO2 cleaning has become particularly transformative in the fire industry, addressing the challenges of cleaning turnout gear and ensuring the safety of firefighters. Turnout gear, designed to protect firefighters from extreme heat and hazardous conditions, often becomes contaminated with harmful substances during incidents. These include:

• Carcinogens and Toxins: Soot, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from firefighting foams and materials.
• Biological Hazards: Bloodborne pathogens and contaminants from medical response situations.

While traditional water-based cleaning systems are commonly used, they have significant limitations:

• Water Alone Isn’t Enough: Water struggles to fully remove oil-based chemicals like PFAS and PAHs, which bond to fabric fibers. This leaves dangerous residues on gear even after washing.
• Environmental Concerns: Wastewater generated from water-based cleaning can carry these contaminants into local water systems, causing further environmental harm.
• Gear Integrity Risks: Aggressive cleaning methods, such as high-temperature washing, can degrade the protective layers of turnout gear, reducing its effectiveness.

Liquid CO2 cleaning offers a safer, more effective solution:

• Comprehensive Decontamination: Liquid CO2 penetrates deep into turnout gear, removing chemical contaminants and biological hazards that water cannot fully address.
• Gear Preservation: The gentle, low-temperature cleaning process preserves the structural integrity of turnout gear, ensuring it continues to provide critical protection and extending the traditional life of turnout gear.
• Eco-Friendly Process: Without producing harmful runoff or requiring chemical agents, liquid CO2 cleaning eliminates the environmental risks associated with traditional methods.

By adopting liquid CO2 cleaning, fire departments can better protect their firefighters and reduce their environmental footprint. Regular decontamination of turnout gear not only ensures safety but also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability.

The Future of Sustainable Cleaning

The global shift toward sustainability demands innovation across all sectors, and liquid CO2 cleaning is leading the charge in the cleaning industry. By eliminating harmful chemicals, conserving water, and reducing energy use, this method offers a compelling solution for organizations seeking to align operational needs with environmental goals.

As environmental regulations tighten and businesses face increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, liquid CO2 cleaning provides a way to stay ahead. It not only reduces ecological impact but also demonstrates a commitment to corporate responsibility—a factor that increasingly influences consumer and stakeholder trust.

At Emergency Technical Decon, we’re proud to champion our innovative Liquid CO2+ cleaning solution as a sustainable alternative to traditional methods. Our specialized services help fire departments and first responders maintain the integrity of their critical equipment while protecting the planet. Whether you’re focused on water conservation, reducing emissions, or avoiding hazardous waste, liquid CO2 cleaning delivers results without compromise. Interested in learning how ETD’s Liquid CO2+ cleaning can help your organization meet its environmental and operational goals? Contact our team today.