EU Revises REACH Restrictions Roadmap
On 8 July 2025, the European Commission updated the REACH Restrictions Roadmap following the CARACAL 55 meeting held on 30 June 2025. This update adds 6PPD as a candidate for future restriction, while tetrahydrofuran (THF) has been removed.
6PPD Added Due to Environmental and Health Concerns
• What is 6PPD?
6PPD (N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine) is widely used as an antioxidant in tires and rubber products.
• Why restrict 6PPD?
It has been linked to aquatic toxicity and possible reproductive harm, raising alarms among EU regulators.
• Next steps:
If supported by Member States including the Netherlands and Austria, a restriction proposal is expected to be submitted to ECHA in early 2026.
THF Removed After Risk Reassessment
• Why was THF dropped?
Following a detailed reassessment, especially by Germany, THF was found to pose minimal risk under current industrial and consumer uses.
• What it means?
No immediate REACH restriction is planned for THF, though companies should monitor classification or labeling updates.
Industry Impact and Preparation
• The addition of 6PPD reflects the EU’s ongoing focus on Persistent, Bioaccumulative, and Toxic (PBT) substances under the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability.
• Key actions for businesses in automotive, tire, and rubber sectors:
o Assess current 6PPD use and exposure risks
o Explore safer alternative substances
o Review supply chains and begin early compliance planning ahead of 2026
Regulatory Timeline and Recommendations
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• Companies should proactively:
o Evaluate 6PPD usage and potential exposure
o Identify and test alternative materials
o Prepare documentation and supply chain adjustments
The latest REACH roadmap update signals a notable regulatory shift. With 6PPD on the horizon for restriction and THF dropped, affected industries must act now to reduce risks and ensure compliance under evolving EU chemical regulations.
Reference: European Commission REACH Restrictions Roadmap
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