Because of its proclivity for dissolving polar polymers, 1,3-dioxolane is being used in paint, film, and photoresist removers. Removal of various resins can be achieved within 30 minutes of application of 1,3-dioxolane. Dioxolane is rapidly finding acceptance as a replacement solvent for methylene chloride, 1,2–dichlorethane, 1,1,1 trichloroethane, N-Methyl pyrollidinone (NMP), and other aliphatic and aromatic solvents because of its low toxicity and powerful solvating properties.
Dioxolane is also water soluble, allowing for easy clean-up. However, one must remember that in contrast to the chlorinated solvents, dioxolane is highly flammable.