EU Assesses Regulatory Needs for Fluorinated Aliphatic Hydrocarbons

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.