Ultra-low Free Monomer Polyisocyanates from Sapici

In light of the changes made to isocyanate regulations in September 2021, Stort are proud to present Sapici’s Ultra-low free monomer isocyanates.

Sapici are a global leader in high-performance polyurethanes for coatings, adhesives, sealants, inks and more. They offer every kind of isocyanate including TDI, MDI and HDI and have the ability to achieve ultra-low monomer content.

Why isocyanates?

Isocyanates are classified as potential human carcinogens. They are known to cause occupational asthma along with other lung issues and cause irritation to the eyes, nose, throat and skin. In the EU, Isocyanate exposure is estimated to cause over 5,000 new cases each year, which is “unacceptably high”. These new regulations have been adopted in an attempt to reduce cases.

A major source of exposure is thought to come from spraying paints containing isocyanates. Spraying creates airborne particles which lead to respiratory sensitisation followed by severe asthma. Once sensitised, even trace levels of isocyanate exposure can cause severe asthma symptoms which would almost certainly mean the affected would need to leave their job. Even if done in an area with ventilation, the spray gun would overwhelm air movement and the area will still rapidly fill with paint mist.

Through roller or brush applications, splashes of isocyanates can get onto the skin or eyes leading to dermatitis or conjunctivitis. Therefore, annual health checks should be carried out looking into lung health and dermatitis. Disposable overalls and gloves should also be used during application to minimise skin contact, increasing waste.

What are the new rules?

EU REACh restriction 74 came in February 2020 and was adopted into UK REACh. There are some slight changes from the EU legislation, but these are mainly to make it operable in a UK-only situation.

The legislation applies to products with a free monomer concentration greater than 0.1% by weight. Most products in the UK carry around 0.5% free monomer so this may be for you!

From 24^th Feb 2022 labelling and packaging requirements will change. Unless exempt as explained above, all products must have the following statement clearly distinct from the rest of the label:

“As from 24 August 2023 adequate training is required before industrial professional use”

From 24^th August 2023, employers or the self-employed will need to ensure that industrial or professional users have successfully completed training on how to use isocyanates safely prior to using the substance or mixture. Suppliers of these materials must ensure that relevant training is available but have no responsibility to provide or pay for the training themselves. The training will give guidance in risk management, focusing on lowering/minimising exposure and associated risks.

What’s the solution?

Enter Sapici’s Polurgreen… By replacing standard products with Polurgreen, users can reduce their labelling requirements to only “EUH 204 – contains isocyanates. May produce an allergic reaction” and no training will be required before use! All inhalation warnings can be removed, and the risk of occupational asthma is significantly reduced.

The Polurgreen range covers a huge variety of applications including water proofing membranes, adhesives, spray polyurethane foams, sealants and more. Please discuss your application with one of our Industrial technical sales managers to find which product will be best for you