Emerald Kalama Chemical has announced the completion of the pre-registration requirements of REACH legislation for the components of its Kalama^TM K-FLEX^® plasticizers. The K-Flex product line features non-phthalate plasticizer products based on dibenzoate chemistry that are used to impart flexibility, promote adhesion or aid in flow characteristics in adhesives, coatings, flooring, plastisols, and many other applications.   

The dibenzoate chemistry, the basis for the K-Flex product line, has been identified by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) as a safer, viable alternative to various phthalate plasticizers that have been identified as “substances of very high concern” (SVHC).

Phthalate plasticizers classified as SVHC include benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). These chemistries have come under increased scrutiny under article 58.3(c) of the REACH regulation because of their proven persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic nature (PVB) or very persistent and very bioaccumulative nature (vPvB), coupled with wide dispersive uses or high volumes. Of particular concern is benzyl butyl phthalate, which was targeted in the January 2009 ECHA report as an SVHC material with the potential to cause reproductive risks.  This same report named dibenzoate plasticizers as an acceptable alternative to BBP, partially due to their ease of biodegradability. 

For more information, visit www.emeraldmaterials.com.