ERROR 1
ERROR 1
ERROR 2
ERROR 2
ERROR 2
ERROR 2
ERROR 2
Password and Confirm password must match.
If you have an ACS member number, please enter it here so we can link this account to your membership. (optional)
ERROR 2
ACS values your privacy. By submitting your information, you are gaining access to C&EN and subscribing to our weekly newsletter. We use the information you provide to make your reading experience better, and we will never sell your data to third party members.
Canada is proposing to restrict five toxic substances or categories of compounds, including some flame retardants and surfactants, because the chemicals pose risks to the environment. The five are hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFAs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). Under the proposal, insulating foams that contain the flame retardant HBCD and are used for construction applications would be prohibited as of 2017. PFOA and long-chain PFAs, which are commonly used as surfactants, grease repellents, and wetting agents, would also be banned, with an exemption until 2017 for use in water-based inks and photo media coatings. PBDE flame retardants, including decaBDE, would be prohibited. In addition, current exemptions for the surfactant PFOS in aviation hydraulic fluids would be removed. The proposal, however, would allow all of the affected chemicals to be used in laboratories for scientific research.
Join the conversation
Contact the reporter
Submit a Letter to the Editor for publication
Engage with us on X