BASF responds to US 1,4-Dioxane law change with new Flex ingredients

By Becky Bargh | Published: 27-Jan-2020

The German chemicals company has replaced the compound in its surfactant and polymers portfolio after concerns were raised about its potential impacts on water quality

BASF has responded to new US laws curbing the use of 1,4-Dioxane in home and personal care products by adopting new ingredients for its Flex surfactant and polymers portfolio.

The heterocyclic compound is a colourless liquid with a faint odour that is classified as an ether.

It is primarily used as a solvent in the manufacturing of chemicals and as a laboratory reagent, due to its ability to mix with water.

However, concerns have been raised about 1,4-Dioxane’s potential impact on water quality, triggering regulatory actions in New York and research in California.

According to the new law passed in New York state last year, personal care and household cleaning products must not contain more than 2ppm of 1,4-Dioxane by the end of 2022; and is expected to be tightened to 1ppm in 2033.

“Formulating with Flex helps our partners comply with regulations ahead of the 2022 deadline,” said BASF’s Senior VP of Care Chemicals, North America.

“Expanding the Flex range is an important step in providing our customers with a broad portfolio of flexible formulation options.

“It enables them to meet both their performance criteria and the new industry requirements.”

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