The European Chemical Agency (ECHA) has added four substances to the Candidate list of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) which now brings the total to 201. The list of chemicals is generally updated twice a year.
The new chemicals are as follows:
- tris(4-nonylphenyl, branched and linear) phosphite (TNPP) with ≥ 0.1% w/w of 4-nonylphenol, branched and linear (4-NP) – endocrine disruptor for the environment
- 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoro-2-(heptafluoropropoxy)propionic acid, its salts and its acyl halides (covering any of their individual isomers and combinations thereof) – levels of concern having probable serious effects to human health and the environment
- 4-tert-butylphenol – endocrine disruptor for the environment
- 2-methoxyethyl acetate – toxic for reproduction
France proposed to include tris(4-nonylphenyl, branched and linear) phosphite (TNPP) with ≥ 0.1% w/w of 4-nonylphenol, branched and linear (4-NP) on the list and the Member State Committee (MSC) adopted the decision. This substance is mainly used as an antioxidant to stabilize polymers.
The MSC chose to add the second chemical to the list. This substance is used as a processing aid in the manufacture of fluorinated polymers.
Germany proposed to add 4-tert-butylphenol to the list in March 2016. This substance is used in polymers, adhesives, sealants and for the synthesis of other products. The Commission recognized the substance as a SVHC in July 2019.
2-methoxyethyl acetate was suggested by Sweden earlier this year. The substance is not registered under REACH regulations and its uses are unknown.
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