EU Limits Use of Dimethylformamide

On November 22, the EU published Regulation 2021/2030 to modify Annex XVII of REACH. The Regulation restricts the manufacture, the placement on the market, and the use of dimethylformamide (DMF). 

One common use of DMF is as a solvent for many polymers. According to REACH, the substance is considered reprotoxic in Category 1B, acutely toxic in Category 4 (inhalation or dermal exposure), and an eye irritant in Category 2. 

Accordingly, the use of DMF is now being limited. For example, a central requirement of the Regulation states that as of December 12, 2023, DMF may not be placed on the market either as a substance on its own or as a component of another substance or mixture in a concentration of 0.3% or greater. An exception is granted if the manufacturers, importers, and downstream users have included derived no-effect levels (DNELs) in the related chemical safety reports and safety data sheets.  The exception applies when the DNELs indicate that inhalation exposure of DMF to workers is limited to 6 mg/m3 and to 1.1 mg/kg/day for dermal exposure.  

Make sure you don’t delay updating your chemical safety reports and safety data sheets. If you have any questions, please contact us at sales@kft.de

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