How to comply with NMP restriction?

14 August 2020

NMP-based coatings are now under restriction in the EU

Regulatory update on NMP

NMP (1-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone) is an organic chemical compound identified with the number CE212-828-1. It is a reproductive toxicant (ie. may damage the unborn child). It causes serious eye and skin irritation and it may cause respiratory irritation. Its use in a concentration equal to or greater than 0.3% is today forbidden in Europe unless you can ensure your workers’ exposure is below:

14.4 mg/m3 for exposure by inhalation
and 4.8 mg/kg/day for dermal exposure.

NMP is used as a solvent or surface deposition medium during manufacturing. It is therefore a critical substance for various industries producing batteries, semiconductors, fibres, pharmaceuticals and wire coatings. NMP users in the EU in these sectors will have to comply with the restriction by 9 May 2020. For NMP used in wire coatings, the deadline is 9 May 2024.

What should you do to comply?

If you are using anti-stick coatings or any other coatings containing 1-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), you have to make sure your operators are working below the exposure scenarios by checking the Material Safety Data Sheets of the coatings you are using. If you are not compliant, you must then set up suitable safety procedures and personal protective equipment in order to preserve the health of your employees.

As a supplier, Tetrachim strongly advises you to switch to less hazardous options. Indeed, NMP-based coatings are under greater scrutiny and will gradually be phased out. Many coating manufacturers have now developed NMP-free solutions that are giving excellent results. We can guide you to find the suitable substitutes to the NMP-based coatings you are currently using.

Feel free to contact us.

Link to the European Chemical Agency Guideline on NMP