Polyurethane applications in filtration and regulation (EU) 2020/1149: Requirements, implications and recommendations for action. Challenge or opportunity?

Publisher FILTECH

F. Steegmanns*, Stockmeier Urethanes GmbH, Germany

Regulation (EU) 2020/1149 of the European Commission of 3 August 2020 supplements Annex XVII of the REACH Regulation (EC No. 1907/2006) and is aimed in particular at düsavanates, key components in the manufacture of polyurethanes Disocvanates, are harmonised as Category 1 skin and respiratory sensitizers and have been proven to cause occupational diseases such as asthma when used improperly. The new regulation restricts the use of substances or mixtures containing more than 0.1% (w/w) disocyanate for industrial/commercial users and introduces mandatory training for users, which must be verified from 24 August 2023. This has far-reaching consequences for the polyurethane industry: materials such as PU foams, sealants, coatings and adhesives are affected in many cases. The presentation first highlights the chemical basics of polyurethanes and disacyanates, clarifies the health risks and explains the main regulatory content of the regulation. It then presents the practical implications for the production, processing and use of polyurethane products and outlines the necessary steps for manufacturers, users and supply chain partners: establishing technical and organisational protective measures, documenting user training, adapting labelling and supply chain information. Finally, opportunities and challenges are discussed - for example, with regard to training infrastructure, market adaptation and innovations in the form of safer alternatives. The aim of the presentation is to provide a practical understanding of the requirements of Regulation (EU) 2020/1149 in the context of polyurethane products and to provide recommendations for action for the legally compliant and safe use of materials containing disocvanates.

Published in: FILTECH 2026 Conference

Date of Conference: 30 June - 2 July 2026

DOI: -

Presenter's Affiliation: STOCKMEIER Urethanes GmbH & Co.KG

Publisher: FILTECH Exhibitions GmbH & Co. KG

Country: Germany

Electronic ISBN: 978-3-941655-25-6

Conference Location: Cologne, Germany

Keywords: Adhesion, Adhesive Forces, Adhesives, Filter Bonding, Filter Sealing Compounds, Filter Adhesives, Polyurethane