The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has completed an assessment of regulatory needs for fluorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons, a group of 28 substances used in manufacturing, electronics, and industrial cleaning. Published on 7 February 2025, the review found potential hazards related to carcinogenicity, reproductive toxicity, endocrine disruption, and environmental persistence. However, no immediate EU-wide regulatory risk management measures are proposed.
The substances remain regulated under the F-Gas Regulation (EU) 2024/573 and the Ozone-Depleting Substances Regulation (EC) No 1005/2009. Industry stakeholders are advised to track potential policy developments that may impact supply chains and compliance obligations.
Substances and Their Industrial Applications
Key Fluorinated Aliphatic Hydrocarbons Under Review
Fluorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons are primarily used in:
- Fluoropolymer production
- Semiconductor manufacturing
- Industrial cleaning agents
- Heat transfer and lubricant fluids
Substances such as difluoromethane (CAS: 75-10-5) and 1,1-difluoroethane (CAS: 75-37-6) have high industrial relevance, particularly in refrigerants and propellants. The study examined both saturated and unsaturated halofluorocarbons, noting their structural similarities to PFAS without classifying them as such.
Regulatory Landscape and Future Considerations
Current Compliance Requirements
ECHA’s assessment confirms that 14 substances are classified as ozone-depleting under the Montreal Protocol, meaning they are subject to phased-out production and use restrictions. Other substances fall under REACH and CLP regulations, requiring businesses to ensure proper labelling, handling, and reporting.
Potential Future Regulations
Although no immediate regulatory risk management (RRM) actions are proposed, the report indicates that:
- Changes in reported industrial uses or exposure risks could prompt regulatory reconsiderations.
- Existing hazard classifications, particularly those related to endocrine disruption and persistence, may trigger new restrictions in the future.
