With the EU reclassifying some of the flow agents for epoxy resin, Gurit has already been working to make these ‘diluents’ much safer.
Epoxy resin is a remarkable invention, providing boatbuilders with a wide range of robust coatings, fillers and adhesives, but the nature of the chemistry means it does have some harmful properties. Over the years, these have been mitigated to a degree by new formulations, but simple precautions are still needed with its use. Some operators, for example, report skin irritation after extensive exposure. Recently, the EU has been investigating 59 of the chemicals used as diluents, the thinning and flow agents, to reassess any toxicity. As a result, some diluents have now moved into the CMR (carcinogenic, mutagenic and reprotoxic) categories and must be replaced with much safer chemicals. This is having an impact on most of the two-component epoxy systems currently on the market.
In a statement, a leading manufacturer of epoxies, Gurit, said that supply chain communication of new classifications began this year. A ‘harmonized’ classification is expected to become legally binding for some substances from 2026.
“Gurit’s technical experts had already been working for some time on removing CMR-classified chemicals from its product ranges,” said Gurit’s Global Marketing Manager Alec Brownjohn. “Late last year we developed patent-pending technology for true alternatives for the very small number of the reclassified chemicals that are used in the company’s products. The work has continued across Gurit’s epoxy formulated range, with alternatives now available for most of the affected Gurit products. Overall, the Gurit solutions have not affected cost or performance, a result which has been well received by customers. For them, it has been business-as-usual, with minimal impact on product qualification status.”
In a statement, Brownjohn has reported that the following Gurit products are not classified as CMR and are available immediately. The list includes Ampreg 32 (alternative to Ampreg 30) and Ampreg 33 (alternative to Ampreg 31) laminating systems; Ampreg 32/33 Thixotropic Pregel; Spabond 730, Spabond 575 (alternative to Spabond 570), Spabond 5 minute and BondPro 200 Series adhesives. Also included is Ampro multipurpose system and S-Fair 700 filling and fairing compound.
“The team continually monitors the regulatory landscape,” Brownjohn said. “They are looking for early warnings of possible reclassifications and diligently work to reduce the number of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs), high hazard and CMR substances used in formulations and at production sites. The situation remains dynamic with new reclassifications occurring every year, resulting in an ever-growing SVHC list. Chemical safety and product performance are always front-of-mind for the Gurit team. By proactively testing, researching and developing alternatives, they ensure that marine, industrial and other customers can continue to access safer and high performing epoxy products.”
LinkedIn
X / Twitter
Facebook
Email us
