Cyclosiloxanes, including D4, D5, and D6, are a class of organosilicon compounds with unique chemical structures. Widely used across multiple industries, they have also drawn significant attention due to their potential environmental and health risks. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the EU’s recent regulatory developments targeting these substances.
On April 20, 2023, the EU Court of Justice (ECJ) annulled the authorization of chromium trioxide in its manufacture process as to its concerned uses in the following: formulation of mixtures ('category 1'); functional chrome plating ('category 2'); functional chrome plating with decorative character ('category 3'); surface treatment for applications in the aeronautics and aerospace sectors (unrelated to functional chrome plating with decorative character) ('category 4'); surface treatment (except passivation of tin-plated steel (electrolytic tin plating – ETP)) for applications in various industry sectors, namely architectural, automotive, metal manufacturing and finishing, and general engineering (unrelated to functional chrome plating or functional chrome plating with decorative character) ('category 5'); and passivation of tin-plated steel (ETP) ('category 6').
To protect workers and the environment, ECHA recommends adding eight substances, including lead, to the REACH Authorisation List. Once substances are added to the REACH Authorisation List, companies will need to apply for authorization before a specific date to continue using them.
On November 23, 2022, South Korean Ministry of Environment (MoE) released 11 candidate substances subject to authorization for public consultation in its Announcement No. 2022-671. Comments can be made from December 15, 2022 to February 13, 2023 (lasting 60 days). Substances subject to authorization under K-REACH are required to obtain the authorization from MoE prior to production, import or use in South Korea, even if the substances have already completed registrations under K-REACH.
On 11 Apr. 2022, the European Commission has added 5 substances into the Authorised List by adopting the Commission Regulation COMMISSION REGULATION (EU) 2022/586 of 8 April 2022 regarding amending Annex XIV to REACH Regulation. This amendments will take effect from 1 May 2022.
ECHA proposed to include eight new substances in the Authorisation List (Annex XIV to REACH). The proposal is now open for public consultation and comments can be given by 2 May 2022. ECHA invites further information on the uses of these substances, their possible exemptions from the authorisation requirement and on the structure and complexity of their supply chains.
