About Aerosols > What is an aerosol?

In 1929, Erik Rotheim, a Norwegian engineer and inventor filed a patent describing the use of a pressure container fitted with a valve to dispense a variety of products.

The aerosol can was born

An aerosol package is a relatively simple dispensing mechanism. The can is made of steel, aluminium, glass or plastic. It contains a mixture of product and propellant, which pushes the product out of the container.

	Finger pressure on the actuator opens the valve; enabling the propellant to push the product up the dip tube and out through the valve in a spray, mousse or gel.
	Aerosols have an excellent safety record. Each individual can is tested after manufacture. Consumers like aerosols because they are convenient, easy to use, hygienic and efficient.
	Since 1989 European consumer aerosols (except a few medical products like asthma inhalers) have stopped using CFC propellants.

Aerosols are recyclable, just like any other empty metal packaging.

Always read the instructions before use! DO NOT Spray on a naked flame or fire (protect from sunlight). Smoke. Inhale (except those intended for medical purposes). Pierce or burn.

Do you want to get more information on aerosol products? In your own language? Please visit also the Websites of FEA members