Stunning Reversal: EU Axes RoHS Directive's TBBP-A and MCCPs Restriction Proposals

On December 10, 2024, the EU abandoned its plan to restrict Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBP-A) and medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs) under the RoHS Directive.

The Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (The RoHs directive) was adopted by the European Union in 2003 and limits the amount of hazardous chemicals in electronics.

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Proposed Restrictions for TBBP-A and MCCPs

Chinese Name	四溴雙酚A (TBBP-A)
English Name	Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBP-A); 2,2',6,6'-tetrabromo-4,4'-isopropylidenediphenol
CAS No.	79-94-7
Uses	TBBP-A, a brominated epoxy resin precursor, functions as a reactive flame retardant in printed circuit boards and in epoxy resin sealants, adhesives, and encapsulants. It also serves as an additive flame retardant in thermoplastic components like ABS plastic casings.
Limitation	Maximum concentration of 0.1%.

Chinese Name	中鏈氯化石蠟
English Name	medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCP); Alkanes, C14-17, chloro
CAS No.	85535-85-9
Uses	MCCPs are auxiliary plasticizers with flame-retardant properties used in flexible plastics, rubber, and other polymers, including PVC products, rubber, and polymer products. In electronics, they are used in PVC insulation for cables and wires, and in soft plastic or rubber components like polyurethane, sulfur rubber, acrylic, and butyl sealants.
Limitation	Maximum concentration of 0.1%.

Timeline of the Proposal

In 2018, the EU's RoHS Directive assessment project Pack15 proposed adding seven substances, including TBBP-A and MCCPs, to the RoHS Directive's restricted list.
In 2021, the EU RoHS assessment body recommended restricting TBBP-A and MCCPs.
In 2022, the European Commission proposed legislation for the restrictions.
In 2024, the EU withdrew the proposal, ending the debate.

Background

MCCP, used in PVC insulation and other plastic or rubber components of electronics, and TBBP-A, used in epoxy resins and as a flame retardant in plastics, will remain unregulated for now.

CIRS Insights

Manufacturers are not required to adjust compliance for these substances. However, they should monitor the EU RoHS Directive for future changes. We will keep an eye on the latest industry trends and provide real-time market updates for our customers, offering comprehensive services to businesses globally.

If you need any assistance or have any questions, please get in touch with us via service@cirs-group.com.

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