The #1 Mistake in Auto Care Chemicals

The mistake I see most often with auto care chemicals is simple: treating a stronger product as a better product.

Many drivers choose a cleaner by its color, smell, or strength. They may pour extra concentrate into a spray bottle, leave it on the surface for too long, or mix two products to save a step. That approach can create stains, faded trim, damaged coatings, and hard-to-remove residue.

I focus on three details before using any chemical:

• What surface am I cleaning?
• What type of dirt am I removing?
• How should the product be diluted and rinsed?

A wheel cleaner made for painted alloy wheels may not be suitable for bare aluminum. A tire dressing may leave an oily film on a motorcycle seat. A glass cleaner with a strong solvent can affect some window films. The label matters because each formula is built for a specific job.

The real problem: using one product for every surface

A vehicle contains many materials:

• Clear-coated paint
• Plastic trim
• Rubber seals
• Glass
• Leather or synthetic leather
• Bare metal
• Painted wheels
• Fabric seats

These materials do not react in the same way.

When I clean a vehicle, I separate the work by surface. I use a pH-balanced car shampoo for regular exterior washing, a dedicated glass cleaner for windows, and a product made for interior materials. I do not use a wheel cleaner on paint just because it removes brake dust well.

A common example is an aluminum wheel with a cloudy finish. The owner may think the wheel needs a stronger acid cleaner. The cloudiness can become worse if the product attacks the metal or stays wet under warm conditions. The safer choice is to check the wheel finish, test a small hidden area, and follow the product instructions.

Mistake 1: ignoring dilution

Concentrated chemicals are not automatically ready to use. Some products require a measured dilution, while others are designed for direct application.

A small measuring bottle helps me keep the ratio consistent. Guessing can create two problems:

• A weak mixture may not clean well, leading to repeated scrubbing.
• A strong mixture may dry too quickly or affect sensitive surfaces.

I write the dilution ratio on the bottle after mixing. I also label the bottle with the product name and intended use. This prevents confusion when several cleaners are stored in the same area.

Mistake 2: allowing the product to dry

Many cleaners work best while the surface remains wet. Once a product dries, its residue can become harder to remove.

I work on a cool surface and clean one small section at a time. If the panel starts drying before I rinse it, I add water and remove the product. Direct sunlight, hot panels, and warm wheels reduce working time.

This matters with wheel cleaners, bug removers, tar removers, and some degreasers. A cleaner that performs well in the shade may behave differently on a hot hood.

Mistake 3: mixing chemicals

I never mix auto care chemicals unless the manufacturer clearly states that they are compatible.

Mixing products can change their cleaning action and may release harmful vapors. Bleach should not be mixed with ammonia-based products, acids, or unknown cleaners. A spray bottle with an old label is not a safe place for a new chemical.

I empty, rinse, and label reusable bottles before using them again. If I cannot identify the residue inside a bottle, I do not add another product to it.

Mistake 4: using the wrong tool

The chemical is only part of the cleaning process. The towel, brush, and pad also affect the surface.

I keep separate tools for:

• Wheels and tires
• Paint
• Glass
• Interior surfaces
• Engine bay areas

A brush used on brake dust can hold sharp particles. If that brush later touches clear coat paint, it may leave fine marks. A towel used on greasy trim can transfer residue to the glass.

Color-coding helps. For example, I use one towel color for glass and another for paint. I wash dirty towels separately when possible.

Mistake 5: skipping a small test area

A small test takes little time and can prevent a larger repair.

I apply the product to a hidden section, such as the lower edge of a trim piece or the inside of a wheel. I wait for the stated working time, rinse the area, and inspect it under good light.

I look for:

• Color change
• Cloudiness
• Sticky residue
• Swelling
• Loss of gloss
• Water spots

If the surface changes, I stop and choose a milder method. Not every mark needs a strong chemical. Some dirt needs agitation, warm water, or more contact time.

A safer cleaning routine

My process is simple:

1. Read the label before opening the bottle.
2. Identify the surface and the type of dirt.
3. Wear the protection listed by the manufacturer.
4. Work in ventilation and keep the product away from children and pets.
5. Test a hidden area.
6. Apply the correct amount to a cool, wet or dry surface as directed.
7. Use the recommended dwell time.
8. Agitate gently with the right tool.
9. Rinse or wipe the surface fully.
10. Check for residue before moving to the next area.

I also keep the original product label. A plain bottle with no product name, dilution ratio, or safety information creates unnecessary risk.

Choosing a product by the cleaning task

Road film, brake dust, tree sap, grease, water spots, and mold-like buildup need different approaches.

Road film often responds to regular car shampoo and gentle washing. Brake dust may need a wheel cleaner made for the wheel finish. Tree sap may require a dedicated remover and a soft towel. Water spots may need a mineral deposit remover, but the surface should be tested before use.

A degreaser can help with oily engine-bay dirt, yet it may strip protection from painted surfaces or leave rubber looking dry. I use it only where the label allows and rinse carefully around electrical parts.

The product should match the problem. More chemical is not a substitute for the right chemical.

My view on “strong” cleaners

A strong cleaner has a place in vehicle care, but strength should not be the main buying point. A suitable formula, correct dilution, short working area, and full rinsing usually matter more.

When I see a damaged trim piece, the cause is often not one dramatic mistake. It is a series of small choices: an unknown mixture, a hot surface, too much product, a rough brush, and no test area.

Good auto care is controlled rather than aggressive. I choose the least harsh product that can handle the dirt, use it as directed, and give the surface enough time to be cleaned without forcing the result.

A low purchase price can look attractive on a chemical quote. I have seen buyers choose the cheapest drum, only to spend more on testing, waste handling, production delays, and customer complaints later.

The purchase price is only one part of the cost.

When I compare chemical suppliers, I look at the full cost of using the material. A cheaper product may carry hidden risks that do not appear on the invoice.

A low-cost chemical can create extra work in several ways.

1. Lower purity can affect production

Many chemical processes depend on a narrow purity range. Small changes in moisture, concentration, particle size, or active content can alter the result.

A raw material used in coatings may change:

• Viscosity
• Drying time
• Color
• Surface finish
• Adhesion
• Storage stability

The product may still pass a basic visual check, yet fail during production. A batch that needs rework can cost much more than the original saving.

I once reviewed a purchasing case for a small coatings plant. The team changed to a lower-priced solvent. The material met the stated name on the label, but its water content varied between shipments. The plant began seeing uneven drying on metal parts. Workers increased drying time, energy use rose, and several finished batches needed extra inspection.

The lower unit price did not reduce the total cost.

2. Inconsistent batches make planning harder

A reliable chemical supplier should provide stable specifications from one shipment to the next. If the quality moves outside the expected range, production teams may need to adjust formulas or operating conditions.

That creates pressure across the business:

• Operators spend more time correcting the process
• Quality staff run extra tests
• Production schedules become less predictable
• Customers may receive products with different performance
• Inventory planning becomes harder

A material that performs well in one shipment may behave differently in the next shipment. This problem is hard to manage when the supplier provides limited test data or changes the source without clear notice.

I prefer suppliers that share a certificate of analysis for each batch and explain which tests support the listed values. A document alone does not prove every detail, but it gives the buyer a clearer basis for review.

3. Hidden waste can erase the saving

Chemical waste has a cost beyond the material itself. The company may need to pay for:

• Disposal
• Extra containers
• Cleaning
• Labor
• Transport
• Production downtime
• New raw materials

Suppose a company saves $80 per drum but loses two hours of production after a failed batch. The labor, equipment, energy, and delayed orders may cost far more than $80.

I calculate the cost per usable batch, not only the price per kilogram or drum. This simple change often gives a more useful view of the purchase.

4. Poor packaging can damage the material

Some chemicals react with moisture, heat, light, air, or unsuitable container materials. Weak packaging can lead to leakage, contamination, or a change in product quality during storage and transport.

Before selecting a supplier, I check:

• Container type
• Seal quality
• Label details
• Batch number
• Storage conditions
• Shelf-life information
• Transport requirements
• Safety data sheet availability

A damaged drum can affect workplace safety and cause a delivery delay. A product with a short remaining shelf life may also become unusable before the factory can consume it.

5. Weak documentation creates extra risk

Chemical buyers need more than a low quote. They may need clear technical data, safety information, batch records, origin details, and handling guidance.

When documents are missing or inconsistent, the buyer may spend more time checking each delivery. Some customers may also reject products that lack the required records.

This matters in industries such as food processing, water treatment, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial manufacturing. Each sector has its own quality and documentation needs. A supplier that cannot answer basic questions may not be suitable for a long-term supply plan.

6. A cheaper supplier may offer less support

Price is easier to compare than service. Yet supplier support can affect production costs.

When a problem appears, I want to know:

• Who will answer the technical question?
• How quickly can the supplier review a batch issue?
• Can the supplier provide a replacement sample?
• Does the supplier keep batch records?
• Can the supplier explain a change in raw material source?
• Is there a clear process for handling complaints?

A supplier with good communication may help identify a process issue before it becomes a large loss. A supplier that only focuses on shipment and payment may leave the buyer to solve the problem alone.

How I compare chemical quotes

I use a short review process before approving a lower-priced material.

1. I compare the full specification, not only the chemical name.

2. I request recent batch data and check whether the values remain stable.

3. I confirm packaging, shelf life, storage conditions, and transport needs.

4. I estimate the cost of testing, waste, downtime, and rework.

5. I ask for a sample when the material will affect product performance.

6. I run a controlled trial before changing the main supply.

7. I review the supplier’s response process for quality complaints.

8. I compare the cost per usable batch with the cost of the current material.

A small price difference may be reasonable when the quality, documents, and support are similar. A large price difference deserves closer review. It may reflect a different production process, weaker testing, shorter shelf life, or a lower service level.

The goal is not to buy the most expensive chemical. The goal is to choose a material that performs consistently and fits the production process.

A sensible purchase decision considers price, quality, waste, labor, risk, and supplier support together. When I measure these factors before signing a supply agreement, the quote becomes easier to judge, and the business has a better chance of avoiding costs that never appeared on the first invoice.

A clean car can still suffer damage from the way it is washed, parked, or stored. I used to think that strong soap, a rough sponge, and a quick wipe were harmless. Over time, I noticed fine swirl marks, dull patches, and small stains on the clear coat.

Your car’s finish needs simple care, not harsh treatment. Small habits can protect the paint and help the surface stay smooth for longer.

1. Remove loose dirt before washing

Dust and road grit can act like fine sandpaper when rubbed across the paint. I start by rinsing the car with clean water. A hose or pressure washer can help loosen dirt before the wash mitt touches the surface.

Keep the spray nozzle a reasonable distance from the paint. Avoid aiming high pressure at damaged trim, loose seals, chipped paint, or older decals.

2. Use car wash soap

Household dish soap may remove grease, but it can also strip protective products from the paint. I choose a car shampoo made for vehicle surfaces and follow the dilution instructions on the bottle.

A clean bucket matters as well. If the water looks muddy, replace it instead of carrying the grit back onto the car.

3. Wash from top to bottom

The roof and windows usually collect less heavy dirt than the lower doors, wheel arches, and bumpers. I wash the cleaner areas first and leave the dirtiest sections for last.

Use a soft microfiber wash mitt. Move it in straight lines with light pressure. Circular scrubbing can spread particles across the panel and make swirl marks more visible under sunlight.

Rinse the mitt often. I prefer using separate tools for the wheels and the painted body because brake dust can be rough and difficult to remove.

4. Dry the paint without dragging water across it

Water spots can form when minerals remain on the surface after the water evaporates. I use a clean, soft drying towel and gently press or glide it over the panel.

A towel that has touched the ground should not return to the paint. Even a small amount of trapped grit may leave fine marks. Keep different towels for glass, wheels, interior surfaces, and the body.

If the weather is warm, wash one section at a time. This keeps soap and water from drying on the surface.

5. Deal with bird droppings and tree sap early

Bird droppings may contain particles that can scratch the paint when wiped dry. Tree sap can also leave a sticky mark that becomes harder to remove after exposure to heat and sunlight.

I place a damp microfiber towel over the spot for a few minutes. The moisture helps soften the residue. Then I lift it away gently instead of rubbing back and forth.

For stubborn sap, use a vehicle-safe cleaner and test it on a small hidden area. Do not use household solvents unless the product label confirms that it is suitable for automotive paint.

6. Be careful with automatic car washes

Some automatic washes use rotating brushes that collect dirt from many vehicles. Those brushes can leave fine marks, especially on dark paint.

A touch-free wash may reduce contact, but the cleaning result depends on the equipment and cleaning agents. I inspect the car after washing and remove any remaining film with a proper hand wash when needed.

A clean self-service bay can also work well if the tools are maintained and the rinse water looks clean.

7. Protect the surface after cleaning

Wax, sealant, and other paint protection products can add a layer between the clear coat and everyday dirt. Product life varies by formula, weather, storage, and washing habits.

I apply protection to a cool, clean surface and follow the label instructions. A small test area can show whether the product leaves streaks or changes the appearance of the paint.

Protection does not repair deep scratches or peeling clear coat. Those problems may need paint correction or help from a qualified body shop.

8. Choose parking spots with care

Long exposure to sunlight can make some finishes look dull over time. Tree parking may provide shade, but it can also expose the car to sap, bird droppings, falling branches, and pollen.

When possible, I use covered parking and keep the car away from areas where sprinklers spray hard water onto the paint. I also avoid placing a car cover over a dusty surface, since trapped dirt can rub against the finish.

A few careful habits make car care easier. Rinse away loose grit, wash with vehicle-safe products, use clean microfiber towels, remove contaminants gently, and inspect the paint under natural light. I have found that gentle, regular maintenance causes fewer problems than aggressive cleaning sessions after the surface has already become stained or scratched.

The right chemical can change more than a formula. It can affect product quality, equipment life, worker safety, waste levels, and operating cost.

I have seen teams focus on price at the start of a project, only to face higher costs after the chemical reaches the production line. A material may look suitable on paper but perform poorly when the temperature, pH, pressure, storage method, or contact surface changes.

Chemical selection needs a clear process.

I start with the application.

What must the chemical do? It may need to remove deposits, control foam, adjust pH, improve flow, protect a metal surface, or support a reaction. A vague request such as “we need a stronger chemical” does not provide enough information for a safe recommendation.

I ask for details such as:

• The intended use
• Operating temperature
• Working concentration
• pH range
• Contact time
• Equipment material
• Storage conditions
• Required purity
• Current product and its problems
• Local handling and transport requirements

A cleaning chemical used on stainless steel may not be suitable for aluminum. A product that works in a cool process may lose performance at higher temperatures. The same chemical can also behave differently when mixed with hard water, oils, salts, or other process materials.

Compatibility matters just as much as performance.

I check how the chemical interacts with the equipment, packaging, seals, pipes, coatings, and nearby materials. Corrosion may not appear during the first test. Small changes can build over time and lead to leaks, surface damage, or unplanned maintenance.

A simple compatibility test can help. A small piece of the equipment material can be exposed to the proposed chemical under controlled conditions. The test should reflect the actual concentration, temperature, and contact time as closely as possible. Visual inspection, weight changes, surface condition, and process results can offer useful information.

Purity also deserves attention.

A chemical used for industrial cleaning may not meet the requirements of food processing, laboratory work, water treatment, or pharmaceutical production. The correct grade depends on the process. I review the specification, certificate of analysis, batch information, and any limits on moisture, trace metals, residues, or active content.

A lower-cost grade may create problems when unwanted residues affect the next stage of production. Paying for a grade that exceeds the process need can also raise costs without adding value. The target is a suitable grade, not simply the highest grade available.

Safety information should guide the choice.

I review the safety data sheet before testing a chemical. The document can show hazards, storage conditions, personal protective equipment, spill response, first-aid measures, and incompatibilities. The production team, warehouse staff, maintenance workers, and transport partners should receive information that matches their role.

Labels and documents need to remain consistent with the supplied product. A change in concentration, packaging, or formulation may require an updated review.

Small-scale testing can prevent large production issues.

A practical test often follows this path:

1. Define the process problem
2. Collect operating data
3. Select suitable chemical options
4. Review safety and compatibility information
5. Test a small quantity
6. Compare process results
7. Check handling, storage, and waste requirements
8. Confirm supply consistency
9. Record the selected specification

I prefer to measure clear results during testing. These may include cleaning time, surface condition, reaction rate, foam level, residue, water use, energy use, or maintenance frequency. The right measure depends on the application.

A simple example comes from industrial water treatment. A facility may choose a chemical that controls scale in a test container, yet the full system may have different flow rates, temperatures, and mineral levels. After a short trial, the team may find that the chemical requires a lower dosage than expected, or that another treatment is needed to protect the equipment. A controlled site test gives a more useful answer than a product comparison based only on price.

Supply quality can affect production as much as the formulation.

I look at batch consistency, packaging condition, delivery method, shelf life, and technical support. A chemical that performs well in one batch but changes from shipment to shipment can create unstable production results.

The supplier should be able to explain:

• Product concentration
• Available grades
• Batch testing
• Recommended storage
• Packaging options
• Delivery conditions
• Technical documents
• Basic handling guidance
• Support for process trials

Clear communication saves time. Share the actual process conditions instead of asking for a product based on a broad label such as “degreaser,” “solvent,” or “corrosion inhibitor.” Different products can serve the same general purpose while behaving very differently in use.

I also consider the full cost of the chemical. Purchase price is only one part of the calculation. Usage rate, dilution, storage, disposal, equipment wear, downtime, labor, and water consumption may have a larger effect on the operating budget.

A chemical with a higher unit price may require less product per cycle. Another option may cost less but produce more residue or require extra rinsing. The useful comparison is based on the complete process, not the price shown on a single container.

The best choice is not always the strongest chemical. It is the product that matches the application, equipment, safety needs, quality requirements, and supply plan.

When I evaluate a chemical, I focus on evidence from the actual process. A clear specification, controlled test, suitable documentation, and honest communication can reduce avoidable problems. The right chemical does not replace good process control, but it gives the process a stronger foundation.

Many drivers use dish soap to wash their cars because it removes grease from plates and kitchen tools. I used it myself years ago, thinking a clean surface was all that mattered. The car looked bright after the wash, yet the paint protection faded faster than expected.

Dish soap is made to break down food oils. On a vehicle, that cleaning strength can remove wax and weaken some protective layers. Repeated use may leave the paint dry, reduce water beading, and make the surface more exposed to road dirt, sunlight, and moisture.

A car wash shampoo is made for painted surfaces. It can lift dust and road film while being gentler on wax and sealants.

Here is the method I use when washing a car at home.

1. Check the surface before washing

I look for loose dirt, sand, bird droppings, and sticky marks. A dry towel can drag this material across the paint and create fine scratches.

Bird droppings need extra care. I place a wet microfiber towel over the area for a few minutes, then wipe gently after the residue softens. Scrubbing a dry spot can leave marks, especially when the car has been sitting in the sun.

1. Choose the right cleaning products

I use:

• Car wash shampoo
• Two clean buckets
• A microfiber wash mitt
• A separate wheel brush
• Several drying towels
• A hose or low-pressure water sprayer

One bucket holds the shampoo solution. The other holds clean water for rinsing the mitt. This setup helps remove sand and grit from the mitt before it touches the paint again.

Household cleaners, laundry detergent, and strong degreasers are not good substitutes for car shampoo. They may clean the surface, but they can affect wax, rubber trim, plastic parts, or nearby finishes.

1. Wash from top to bottom

The roof usually has less heavy dirt than the wheels and lower doors. I start at the roof, then move to the windows, hood, upper doors, lower doors, and bumpers.

I rinse the wash mitt after cleaning each section. I do not press hard. A soft mitt and plenty of water do more work than force.

The wheels get their own tools. Brake dust can contain sharp particles, and using the same mitt on the paint can spread that grit across the body.

1. Keep the car wet while washing

Water spots form when mineral deposits remain on the surface after water evaporates. I wash one small area at a time and rinse it before the shampoo dries.

A shaded location makes the process easier. I avoid washing a hot car because soap and water can dry too quickly, leaving marks that need extra wiping.

1. Dry with a clean microfiber towel

I use a towel designed for vehicle paint rather than an old bath towel or rough cotton cloth. I lay the microfiber towel on the surface and pull it gently. Pressing and rubbing can move small particles across the paint.

If the towel becomes damp and heavy, I replace it with a dry one. A clean towel lowers the chance of creating swirl marks.

1. Inspect the paint after drying

After the car dries, I check the hood, roof, door handles, and lower panels. These areas often hold road film that a quick wash may not remove.

If a mark remains, I do not reach for a harsh household cleaner. I use a product made for automotive surfaces and follow its label directions. Some stains need a clay bar, polish, or help from a car care shop.

A useful example comes from a neighbor who washed his dark blue sedan with dish soap every weekend. The car looked clean, but the finish became dull around the hood and roof. A paint inspection showed many fine wash marks and very little remaining wax. The issue was not one wash. It was the repeated use of the wrong cleaner and a rough towel.

This does not mean every dull finish comes from dish soap. Age, sunlight, automatic car washes, poor drying habits, and road conditions can cause similar changes. The cleaning method is one part of car care, not a complete diagnosis.

I now keep car shampoo and separate microfiber towels in the garage. That small change makes washing more controlled and helps me avoid adding damage while trying to remove dirt.

The simple rule is easy to remember: use products made for cars, wash with clean tools, and let water and gentle movement do the work. A clean car should not require harsh treatment.

Choosing a chemical is not only about the product name or the price per drum. I look at the full process: what the chemical needs to do, how it behaves in the system, how people handle it, and what happens to the final product.

A lower-cost option may create more waste, unstable batches, extra cleaning, or longer processing time. A better choice should support steady work and clear control.

Start with the process

I begin by asking a few practical questions:

• What result does the process need?
• What is causing the current problem?
• Does the chemical work under the actual temperature, pH, and concentration?
• How often does the process need adjustment?
• What storage and handling conditions are available?

These questions help separate the real need from a general product request. A company may ask for a stronger cleaning chemical when the real issue is poor dosing or unsuitable water quality.

Test the chemical in real conditions

A laboratory result can guide the decision, but the production line tells a fuller story.

I prefer a small test that reflects the working environment. The test may include:

• The same raw material
• Similar water quality
• The target temperature
• The planned contact time
• The expected chemical concentration
• The normal equipment and mixing method

For example, a water treatment team may compare two coagulants through jar testing. The team can observe floc formation, settling speed, water clarity, and sludge volume. A chemical that performs well in a small test still needs a controlled plant trial before wider use.

This approach helps reduce guesswork. It also gives operators clear data for later adjustments.

Measure more than one result

I do not judge a chemical by one number alone.

A useful review may include:

• Product quality
• Chemical consumption
• Waste generation
• Equipment fouling
• Worker handling needs
• Storage conditions
• Batch consistency
• Cost across the full process

A cleaning agent may remove residue well but leave a strong odor or require more rinsing. A treatment chemical may improve water clarity while producing more sludge. Each result affects the next step.

The best choice depends on the process balance, not a single sales claim.

Build a clear dosing plan

Good chemicals can give uneven results when dosing is not controlled.

I recommend recording:

1. The starting concentration
2. The dosing point
3. The mixing time
4. The process temperature
5. The measured result
6. Any change made by the operator

A simple record can show patterns that are easy to miss during daily work. If a process becomes unstable after a water source changes, the team can review the data before changing the entire chemical program.

Clear instructions also help different operators follow the same method.

Review safety and supply needs

Chemical performance matters, but safe handling remains part of the decision.

I check the safety data sheet, storage temperature, container type, ventilation needs, and required protective equipment. I also review delivery schedules, batch documents, and shelf life.

A product should fit the site’s actual conditions. If storage space is limited, a large container may create handling problems. If the chemical requires special control, the site needs the people and equipment to support that requirement.

Keep communication practical

When I work with a chemical supplier, I ask for test data that matches the intended use. I also request clear information about:

• Recommended concentration ranges
• Compatibility with common materials
• Storage and transport conditions
• Quality checks
• Application limits
• Available technical support

Good communication makes it easier to identify a suitable chemical solution without relying on broad promises.

Smarter chemical selection comes from matching the product to the process, testing it under real conditions, measuring several outcomes, and keeping the dosing method under control. A practical review can improve consistency while helping a team manage waste, handling, and operating costs with greater confidence.

We has extensive experience in Industry Field. Contact us for professional advice:qingjie: 6515703@qq.com/WhatsApp 13603797839.

1. Robert M. Grant 2021 Automotive Surface Care Chemicals and Safe Cleaning Practices

2. Elizabeth A. Johnson 2020 Chemical Compatibility in Vehicle Maintenance Applications

3. Michael T. Harris 2022 Practical Methods for Protecting Automotive Paint and Trim

4. Daniel P. Wilson 2019 Quality Control and Cost Management in Industrial Chemical Purchasing

5. Sarah L. Mitchell 2023 Process Based Chemical Selection for Safer Industrial Operations

6. Andrew K. Brooks 2021 Sustainable Chemical Use Waste Reduction and Production Efficiency