HBCD use approved for extension in Europe
Due to concerns about adequate availability of ‘Poly FR’, a submission requesting an extension of time to allow ongoing use of HBCD in EPS and XPS resin manufacture and use in moulded parts for construction has been granted with a sunset date of end August 2017.
The official release stated: "The European Commission has grants authorisations to 13 companies for two uses of the flame retardant hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD). These cover the formulation of flame-retarded expanded polystyrene (EPS) to solid unexpanded pellets using HBCDD as the additive and the production of flame-retarded EPS articles, for use in building applications in both cases.
Authorisation holders are required to submit a report to the Commission on a three-monthly basis on the available quantities of the polymeric flame retardant on the market and on the progress towards substitution of HBCDD. The review period for authorisations ends on 21 August 2017."
In Australia, EPSA and PACIA continues to work with the Department of Environment on the Australian ratification process. This decision reinforces the need for the Australian process to remain mindful of adequate supply availability of ‘Poly FR’ for the Asia region manufacturers of EPS & XPS resin.
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