18 Aug 2021
PFCAs (perfluorocarboxylic acids), a subset of PFAs (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) has been restricted by European commission – under Annex XVII of REACH Regulation.
This new regulation replaces the entry 68 of Annex 17 to REACH on PFOA. PFOA related substances are now regulated under POPs regulation (EU) 2019/1021.
It restricts the PFCAs and their salts, containing 9 to 14 carbon atoms in the chain (C9-C14 PFCAs).
The below substances are excluded from the definition:
Companies cannot manufacture, use or place the PFCAs and their salts on the market from 25th Feb 2023. These are toxic and very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB).
C9-C14 PFCAs act as a substitute for PFOA. This is also added under Candidate List as substances of very high concern (SVHCs) under REACH.
It can be used as a constituent in other substances, mixtures or articles, if the mixture, or the article is below 25 ppb for the sum of C9-C14 PFCAs and their salts or 260 ppb for the sum of C9-C14 PFCA-related substances.
The regulation is applicable from 4th July 2023 to:
The regulation is applicable from 4th July 2025 for:
Different transition periods are granted to certain industry and professional. Articles placed before 25th of Feb 2023 on EU market are exempted.
Talk to one of our REACH Regulation Specialists today!