LANXESS CMIT/MIT Biocides Receive EU Authorisation

LANXESS Biocidal Product Family Overview

The authorised product family, produced by LANXESS Deutschland GmbH, features a blend of active substances, primarily a mixture of 5-chloro-2-methyl-2H-isothiazol-3-one and 2-methyl-2H-isothiazol-3-one (CMIT/MIT) at a 3:1 ratio. This formulation is approved for multiple applications, including:

• PT06: Preservatives for products in storage,
• PT11: Preservatives for liquid-cooling and processing systems,
• PT12: Slimicides for paper production,
• PT13: Preservatives for working fluids in metal and glass treatment.

Targeted Industrial Applications

The LANXESS product family’s biocidal properties make it essential for industries seeking to protect products from microbial degradation and to maintain sterile environments across applications. Specific uses include:

• In-Can Preservation: LANXESS products serve as in-can preservatives for fluids in paper, textile, and leather production, as well as for adhesives and coatings. These solutions ensure extended shelf life by preventing microbial growth in stored products.
• Cooling System Preservation: PT11 products are specifically used in open and closed liquid-cooling systems, protecting against Legionella and other pathogens that could harm operational efficiency and public health.
• White Water Circuits in Paper Production: PT12 solutions target slime formation in paper mill white water circuits, contributing to system hygiene and operational longevity.
• Working Fluid Preservation: PT13 products help preserve cutting and treatment fluids in the metal and glass industries, reducing bacterial and fungal contamination and preserving fluid quality.

Health, Safety, and Environmental Compliance

The CMIT/MIT biocides authorised in the LANXESS product family require specific handling and risk mitigation measures due to potential health hazards, such as skin burns and respiratory tract irritation. The regulation mandates that all users wear protective gloves, clothing, and face protection during application. Additionally, the product’s high toxicity to aquatic life necessitates strict disposal and spill management protocols to prevent environmental contamination.

Background and Future Implications

The LANXESS CMIT/MIT Biocidal Product Family's authorisation follows a comprehensive review by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and reflects the Commission’s commitment to maintaining stringent health and safety standards in the biocidal product sector. The regulation aligns with EU objectives for safer chemical management and underscores the importance of innovation in materials preservation across various industries.

The authorisation remains valid for a decade, promoting industry adherence to sustainable practices while providing the EU market with a regulated and approved biocidal option. Future evaluations will determine its extended use, as industries increasingly adopt these biocides to enhance product safety and longevity.

This EU-wide authorisation positions LANXESS as a key contributor to biocidal applications in industrial and manufacturing environments, ensuring the safe preservation of critical materials and processes. With this decision, the European Commission reaffirms its dedication to high standards in biocidal applications, benefiting both industry stakeholders and the environment.