EPA proposes ban on most uses of dichloromethane

Published: April 24th, 2023 on chemistryworld.com

On April 24th 2023, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed a ban of dichloromethane. This ban was a part of the Toxic Substance Control Act (2016), which dictates US chemical policies. Dichloromethane is a very common solvent used to produce products such as; adhesives, sealants, degreasers and paint strippers. 

Figure 1.  Structure of dichloromethane

The EPA has identified higher risks for the use of dichloromethane, compared to the current hazard list provided from the American chemical Society. It was determined that inhalation or dermal contact of dichloromethane causes an increased risk for neurotoxicity and liver effects. The EPA also found that chronic exposure to this compound leads to an increased risk of cancer. Since 1980, there have been 85 deaths associated with the use of dichloromethane. The people most affected were contract workers, who had been properly trained and supplied with PPE to prevent adverse effects. Additionally, there is a large number of people that have experienced long lasting health impacts due to exposure.

ACS current hazards of dichloromethane:

• Eye and skin irritation, category 2

• Organ toxicity, single exposure, narcotic effects, category 3

• Drowsiness or dizziness

• Category 2 carcinogen

• Suspected of causing cancer

• Hazardous to the aquatic life and environment

The EPAs an on dichloromethane would eliminate the manufacturing, processing and use of dichloromethane in all industries.  The consumer uses, such as college laboratory settings, will be strictly prohibited.  This ban will also eliminate most commercial and industria uses.  The settings that are still alowed us of dichloromethane will have very strict policies for its use.

Controversy in the Industry

The changes proposed by the EPA is expected to be fully implemented ion 15 months. According to the EPA, there are alternative products available at a similar cost. However, the American Chemistry Council (ACCC) stated that dichloromethane is essential for producing many consumer products. Instead of the ban, the ACC believes the EPA should adjust exposure limits to reduce adverse effects.

The ACC believes that the EPA did not fully evaluate and understand the effects of its ban of dichloromethane. Many industries will be impacted by the ban on dichloromethane. The ban will greatly affect the production of many consumer products. Some manufacturers will have to cease or decrease production of many consumer products. This would affect critical uses of dichloromethane in the pharmaceutical industry, among many others.

References:

Dichloromethane. https://www.acs.org/molecule-of-the- week/archive/d/dichloromethane.html (accessed Apr 25, 2023).

Trager, R. EPA proposes ban on most uses of dichloromethane. https://www.chemistryworld.com/news/epa-proposes-ban-on-most-uses-of- dichloromethane/4017332.article (accessed Apr 25, 2023).