Microplastics in paints and coatings: how to be compliant?

Synopsis

In October 2023 the Restriction on Synthetic Polymer Microparticles (SPM), commonly called “Microplastics”, has entered into force (Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/2055). The Restriction imposes the ban on placing on the market of SPM on their own or in mixtures, when intentionally added, in concentration equal to or greater than 0,01 % by weight. In order to be identified as microplastics, polymer particles must meet specific morphological, dimensional and chemical-physical characteristics. The new Restriction aims to prevent the release to the environment of about half a million tons of microplastics thus contributing to reduce microplastics pollution by 30% by 2030. Nevertheless, the new rule will largely impact chemical industries which will have to find eco-friendly alternatives to the microplastics currently added to their products or will have to meet regulatory obligations. With regards to paints and coatings, most microplastics will be permanently bound in a solid matrix once applied during end use. Those products will not be covered by the ban but will be subject to derogation thus imposing regulatory actions to the companies involved starting from October 2025. For example, suppliers of paints and coatings will be required to communicate downstream the “Instructions for use and disposal” as well as to notify ECHA on the presence of microplastics on their products providing data on polymers identity, quantities, uses and releases, among others. In order to be prepared for the following years regulatory needs, it is important for the industries to be aware of the impact of the restriction on their supply chain and to fully understand the chemical properties and the end uses of their products. The presentation will describe the general terms of the Restriction and will elucidate aspects related to the identification of microplastics. Focus will be given to the implications and regulatory obligations for paints and coatings.