Their convenience has lead to rapid expansion of the aerosol container market, which in turn has raised concern over the disposal of these containers. This fact sheet investigates ways for businesses to reduce or eliminate the problems associated with disposal of aerosol containers. According to the latest annual survey conducted by the Chemical Specialties Manufacturers Association, an estimated 2.9 billion aerosol cans were fined in 1988, a sharp increase over 1987 production. 1 billion aerosol spray cans filled with personal care products were manufactured in 1988. Products are packed into containers as solutions, emulsions, or powders.
Propellants provide the driving force for ejecting the product.
Both liquefied and compressed gases are used as propellants. An advantage of liquid propellants over compressed gas is that the driving force or pressure inside the container remains constant over time. This provides a consistent delivery of the product. In most cases, various combinations of propellants are used to achieve the best economy, pressure, anca safety. Production of aerosol containers declined to a lower 2.1 billion units in 1982, following the controversy over CFC emissions and depletion of the ozone layer.