Isothiazolines, Formaldehyde releasers, IPBC and Boric Acid are affected by changes in legislation. I describe what characterizes these biocides.
Isothiazolinones
Isothiazolinones are biocides which are effective at very low concentrations. However, according to CLP they are also classified as sensitizing substances which can cause allergies. Since 1 June 2015, sensitizing substances that are used in compounds must be included in safety data sheets at concentrations as low as 1/10 of that for which the classification applies to the mixture. The reason for this is to increase protection for individuals who have already been sensitized by these substances. Before 1 June 2015 many metalworking fluids contained isothiazolinones without it appearing on the safety data sheet, however the new CLP regulation means that they have to be reported.
Formaldehyde releasers
Formaldehyde is classified as Carc. 1B, H350 (Can cause cancer) since 1 June 2015. It has been proposed by the classification expert committee at ECHA that formaldehyde releasers have the same classification as formaldehyde due to the fact that formaldehyde is released when these substances come into contact with biological tissue. Due to this proposed classification the first formaldehyde releaser that was approved for use in metalworking fluids was done so with exception. This will most likely be the case for all formaldehyde releasers. The exception will make it more difficult and expensive for suppliers to get the biocidal products and metalworking fluids containing these substances approved for use.
IPBC
3-iodo-2-propynyl-butylcarbamate (IPBC) is a fungicide which has the classification Acute tox. 3, H331 (Toxic if inhaled) since 1 June 2015.
Boric acid
Boric acid is a biostatic agent, i.e. a chemical which inhibits the growth of microorganisms. Since 2009 boric acid has not been approved for use as a biocide in metalworking fluids. However, boric acid has another function as a rust inhibitor, and can therefore be used in metalworking fluids as long as the purpose is rust inhibition and not growth inhibition.
Boric acid has the classification Repr. 1B, H360FD (May damage fertility, May damage the unborn child). Poland applied to lower the classification to Repr. 2, H361d (Suspected of damaging the unborn child). The application was however rejected by ECHA’s expert committee RAC which considered that the existing classification should be retained. (CS)
Chemicals legislation in the EU
Changes within the chemicals legislation are affecting the metalworking industry a lot right now. With our e-book, you can keep up to date.
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