Microplastics REACH Restriction
In this section you will find?
- What is the Microplastics REACH Restriction?
- How is this relevant for the adhesive tape industry?
- Status of legislative process
- Timeline of measures and actions
- How is Afera reacting to the Microplastics REACH Restriction?
- References
- Other relevant documents
What is the Microplastics REACH Restriction?
The Microplastics REACH Restriction was adopted by the European Commission as Regulation 2023/2055, published in September 2023.
It targets intentionally added microplastics, defined as solid polymer particles that are smaller than 5 mm in one dimension and resistant to degradation, by themselves and incorporated in various products ("articles" under REACH), including adhesive tapes.
How is this relevant for the adhesive tape industry?
Adhesive tapes typically consist of continuous coatings or adhesive layers applied to film, paper or textile backings. Adhesive tapes that contain microplastic components (e.g. certain polymeric additives or plastic microbeads intentionally incorporated into products to fulfil a particular function, such as controlled release, encapsulation, viscosity adjustment, or friction reduction) could fall under the scope of this restriction. Microplastics can be present in acrylic-based adhesives containing synthetic polymers, in release liners with silicone coatings that include microplastic additives, and in backing films made from microplastic-rich formulations, such as some PVC or PET-based tapes.
The restriction significantly affects industries that manufacture or use synthetic polymer particles.
Status of legislative process
The Regulation 2023/2055 was published in the Official Journal on 25 September 2023.
Timeline of measures and actions
- 25 September 2023: Regulation 2023/2055 was published in the Official Journal
How is Afera reacting to the Microplastics REACH Restriction?
Afera’s RA-WG Microplastics REACH Restriction taskforce is currently preparing a guidance document on this regulation with what is available for adhesive and what the consequences are for adhesive tapes. Afera may collaborate with FINAT (self-adhesive labels) on this guidance.
References
Other relevant documents
Guidance document on Microplastics Restriction from CEPE, European paints and coatings industry association