ECHA proposes to phase out four substances
Helsinki, Finland, February 2026 — The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has opened a public consultation on including four substances in the REACH Authorisation List (Annex XIV), which potentially could prohibit the chemicals for use in the European Union.
The substances under consultation are:
Bumetrizole (UV-326) (CAS 3896-11-5)
2-(2H-benzotriazol-2-yl)-4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenol (UV-329) (CAS 3147-75-9)
Triphenyl phosphate (TPP) — (CAS 115-86-6)
2-(dimethylamino)-2-[(4-methylphenyl)methyl]-1-[4-(morpholin-4-yl)phenyl]butan-1-one (CAS 119344-86-4)
If formally added to Annex XIV under the REACH Regulation, these substances could not be used in the EU after a defined “sunset date” unless companies obtain specific authorisation.
Why these substances?
These chemicals have already been identified as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC). Bumetrizole (UV-326, CAS 3896-11-5) and UV-329 (CAS 3147-75-9) were identified as very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB) substances. Triphenyl phosphate (CAS 115-86-6), widely used as a flame retardant and plasticiser, was identified due to its endocrine-disrupting properties for the environment. Scientific evidence indicates potential interference with hormonal systems in aquatic species, increasing regulatory scrutiny given its broad use in polymers and treated materials. The photoinitiator 2-(dimethylamino)-2-[(4-methylphenyl)methyl]-1-[4-(morpholin-4-yl)phenyl]butan-1-one (CAS 119344-86-4) was identified as toxic for reproduction (Repr. 1B), reflecting concerns about adverse effects on fertility and developmental health. Its use in UV-curable coatings and inks introduces potential occupational and environmental exposure considerations.
What Happens Next?
Following the close of the consultation on 2 May 2026, ECHA will evaluate the feedback received and finalize its recommendation to the European Commission. If adopted, Annex XIV listing will establish a Latest Application Date (LAD) and a legally binding Sunset Date, after which continued EU use would require authorization.
Sector-Level Impact Assessment by Substance
The potential impact of Annex XIV inclusion varies significantly depending on the specific chemical and its use profile:
| Full Chemical Name | CAS No. | Primary Function | Impacted Sectors | Typical Applications | Likely Compliance Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bumetrizole (UV-326) | 3896-11-5 | UV stabiliser | Electrical & Electronics (EEE); Automotive; Construction; Consumer Products | UV protection in plastic housings, outdoor plastics, and molded components. | Reformulation of UV-stabilised plastics; supplier disclosure; substitution planning. |
| 2-(2H-benzotriazol-2-yl)-4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenol (UV-329) | 3147-75-9 | UV stabiliser | Electrical & Electronics (EEE); Automotive; Construction; Consumer Products | UV-resistant polymers, exterior plastics, and UV-stable coatings or treated materials. | Alternative UV stabiliser qualification; product redesign; potential market withdrawal. |
| Triphenyl phosphate | 115-86-6 | Flame retardant / Plasticiser | Electrical & Electronics (EEE); Automotive; Industrial Manufacturing; Consumer Products | Flame-retardant plastics, polymer additive systems, and functional fluids such as hydraulic fluids. | Reformulation of flame-retardant systems; requalification testing; supply chain risk if authorisation not pursued. |
| 2-(dimethylamino)-2-[(4-methylphenyl)methyl]-1-[4-(morpholin-4-yl)phenyl]butan-1-one | 119344-86-4 | Photoinitiator | Coatings & Inks; Printing; Adhesives; Electronics Manufacturing | UV-curable coatings, printing inks, and adhesive systems relying on photoinitiated curing. | Reformulation of UV-curing chemistry; alternative photoinitiator sourcing; validation updates. |