The European Union (EU) has introduced strict restrictions on substances related to PFHxA (Undecafluorohexanoic Acid) and its salts, with the aim of minimizing risks to the environment and human health. Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/2462 aims to reduce widespread environmental contamination and health risks by limiting the use of PFHxA and its derivatives. Adopted on September 19, 2024, it specifically bans the use of PFHxA in textiles, leather, fire-fighting foams and food packaging.
What is PFHxA and why is it limited?
PFHxA is a chemical with similar properties to perfluorooctanic acid (PFOA) and other perfluorinated compounds, and stands out with its persistent and non-biodegradable properties in the environment. It can have long-term negative impacts on the environment and human health, especially due to its ability to move in water resources. Although there is no direct use of PFHxA in the EU, PFHxA derivatives and salts are widely used in many industries. From textiles to fire-fighting foams, these chemicals pose a risk of harm to the environment and people, especially due to their widespread use.
This regulation, based on a proposal submitted by Germany in 2019, bans the sale of products containing PFHxA at a concentration of 25 ppb (parts per billion) and PFHxA-related substances above 1000 ppb. The new regulation focuses on textiles, leather and cosmetics containing PFHxA, as well as products such as firefighting foams. These regulations are a critical step forward, especially for products with widespread environmental impacts.
Strict Restrictions on Fire Fighting Foams and Textiles
Fire-fighting foams, which have a wide range of uses for PFHxA and its derivatives, will also be affected by these regulations. The use of firefighting foams containing PFHxA for training and testing purposes will be completely banned. However, public fire-fighting services will only be able to use these foams when responding to industrial fires. The new regulations specifically limit the use of PFHxA in textile, leather and food packaging.
Transition Period and Exceptions
While the impact of the new regulation is wide-ranging, certain exemptions and transition periods are provided for certain sectors. Particularly in the textile, leather and cosmetics sectors, a 24-month transition period is provided for companies to replace PFHxA with alternative substances. For firefighting foams, this period is set at 5 years. This period is seen as an opportunity for manufacturers to develop safe alternatives to replace PFHxA and related substances.
Sectoral Impacts and EU Sustainability Goals
This new regulation stands out as part of the EU’s goals to limit the impact of chemicals on the environment and human health. Sectors where PFHxA is widely used, such as textiles, food packaging and firefighting foams, will see significant transformations in line with the new regulations. The EU’s steps towards achieving its sustainability goals through such regulations are critical in terms of reducing environmental risks and transitioning to safer production processes.
As a result, Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/2462 aims to contribute to a safer environment and public health by increasing the control of chemical use: Regulation (EU) No 2024/2462
