REACH with 253 SVHC
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) continues to strengthen chemical safety in the EU by updating the REACH Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs). In its 4 February 2026 update, ECHA added two substances to the Candidate List: n-hexane and 4,4′-[2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(trifluoromethyl)ethylidene]diphenol and its salts (Bisphenol AF (BPAF) and its salts). These additions reflect significant human health concerns, specifically target organ toxicity after repeated exposure to n-hexane and reproductive toxicity for BPAF and its salts, bringing REACH to 253 SVHC.
Below, we unpack the essentials behind these widely used substances, where they may appear in products and supply chains, why regulators are scrutinizing them, and what their listing can mean for REACH obligations (including Article 33 communication, Article 7(2) notification where applicable, and substitution planning).
The Two Added SVHCs, Bringing REACH to 253 SVHC
1. n-hexane
Why added: Specific target organ toxicity after repeated exposure.
Where it can appear: For example, cleaning agents, coating thinners, degreasing steps, polishes, waxes, and certain process solvents.
Why it matters: Repeated exposure can damage the peripheral nervous system.
What to do: map finishing and maintenance operations, replace where feasible, control exposure, and document low-residue specifications.
2. Bisphenol AF (BPAF) and its Salts
Bisphenol AF (BPAF) and its salts: the short name for 4,4′-[2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(trifluoromethyl)ethylidene]diphenol and its salts
Why added: Flagged for reproductive toxicity concerns.
Where it can appear: For example, high-performance polymers, fluoroelastomers, specialty rubber processing, epoxy or resin systems as a monomer, cross-linker, or process regulator.
Why it matters: Notably, evidence of fertility/developmental effects prompts tighter controls.
What to do: screen polymers, review elastomer specs, request updated declarations from seal, gasket, and coating suppliers.
Next Possible Substance Additions to the 253 SVHC Candidate List
Bisphenol F (BPF)
On 1 September 2025, the European Chemicals Agency opened a 45-day public consultation on the proposed addition of three chemicals to the REACH Candidate List of SVHCs. Two of the proposed substances: n-hexane and Bisphenol AF (BPAF) and its salts were subsequently approved and added, bringing the Candidate List to 253 entries. In contrast, Bisphenol F (BPF) was not added at that time; however, it may still be a possible next SVHC Candidate List addition in a future update.
Why proposed: reproductive toxicity concerns similar to BPA.
Where it can appear: For example, BPA substitutes in adhesives, coatings, encapsulants, varnishes, liners, sealants, and composites.
Why it matters: Similarly, as a BPA alternative in resins, adhesives, and coatings, BPF can mirror similar risks.
What to do: trace where BPA alternatives entered your designs, confirm resin grades, and validate supplier substitutions with CAS/EC identifiers.
Immediate Compliance Impacts of having 253 SVHC on the List
How Are BPAF, BPF, and n-hexane Processed and Released?
First, bisphenols BPAF and BPF are used in resin systems (as monomers, cross-linkers, or additives). However, even when networks cure, residual monomers, oligomers, and process aids can still migrate, abrade, or wash off. Conversely—and by contrast—n-hexane is a volatile solvent used to dissolve, thin, clean, or degrease, thus releases primarily evaporate to air unless captured. Moreover, process conditions, cure ratios, and handling practices consequently influence release rates. Therefore, controls must target both polymer residuals and solvent vapors.
Where Releases Can Occur?
Next, consider where releases occur:
Manufacturing
Specifically for BPAF/BPF, incomplete cure, off-ratio mixes, and warm processes can liberate residuals; sanding, cutting, and drilling can generate dust carrying low-MW species. Notably on adhesive/coating lines, overspray and rinses can carry residues to wastewater and wipes. For n-hexane, open trays, wipedowns, and transfers can emit fugitive VOCs; leaks and spent filters consequently become emission sources. Therefore, local exhaust and closed handling are essential.
Use phase
Meanwhile, articles containing bisphenol-based matrices can shed trace residuals under heat, humidity, UV, and wear; maintenance cleanings can move residues to wipes and wash water. Additionally, service operations that apply n-hexane for spot cleaning can release vapors without adequate capture. Nevertheless, good enclosure and ventilation accordingly reduce worker and environmental exposure.
End-of-life
Subsequently, dismantling and shredding of bonded, coated, or encapsulated parts can create dust and fines that transport residual bisphenols; mixed-plastic streams can spread contamination. Furthermore, solvent-bearing rags, canisters, and filters may off-gas n-hexane or leach if containers aren’t sealed. Accordingly, pre-dismantling high-risk parts and segregating solvent wastes are critical. Nonetheless, inadequate capture or treatment can still drive releases.
Particularly in electronics recycling and mixed-material recovery lines, moreover, abrasion and fragmentation can amplify emissions; by contrast, facilities with strong dust capture, VOC control, and water treatment show markedly lower losses.
Ultimately, enclose mix/coat steps, optimize cure to minimize residuals, capture dust at source, use closed-loop solvent systems with LEV and carbon/condensation recovery, seal/segregate wipes and filters, treat rinse waters, and pre-dismantle sensitive assemblies—therefore turning high-risk release points into managed, auditable controls.
Registered Uses Under REACH with 253 SVHC
1. Formulation or Repacking
Manufacturers and mixers blend, react, or dilute these substances to produce:
BPF/BPAF: epoxy and specialty resin systems (monomers/cross-linkers), adhesives, sealants, coatings/varnishes, encapsulants, and laminates.
n-hexane: solvent and processing aid for adhesives/coatings, cleaners, and diluents.
Compliance note: These activities trigger Candidate List duties (e.g., Article 33/7(2)) and may be considered for future Authorisation if later placed on Annex XIV.
2. Industrial Use
At industrial sites, operators manufacture, apply, and process materials containing:
First, electronics: BPF/BPAF in conformal coatings, potting, underfills, lamination; n-hexane for degreasing, surface prep, and thinning.
Second, automotive: BPF/BPAF in structural bonding, sealants, composites; BPAF in high-temperature elastomer seals; n-hexane in adhesive lines and maintenance cleaning.
Next, Construction: BPF/BPAF in floor/wall coatings, sealants, binders; n-hexane as coating/primer solvent.
Then, Wires, Cables, Composites: BPF/BPAF in varnishes, matrix resins, impregnation systems; limited n-hexane use in processing/cleanup.
At the end, other industrials: Textile laminations, polyester/epoxy dispersions, and chemical-resistant linings using BPF/BPAF; n-hexane in printing and parts cleaning.
3. Professional Use
Downstream professionals apply and handle products containing:
BPF/BPAF: adhesives, sealants, coatings, encapsulants used in installation, repair, or small-batch fabrication (electronics service, construction finishing, interiors).
n-hexane: service/maintenance solvents for spot cleaning, degreasing, and surface prep; potential exposure without capture controls.
4. Consumer Use
Finished goods can contain cured systems where residuals may remain:
BPF/BPAF: present as part of bonded laminates, coated housings, appliance parts, technical textiles, and interior trims (residual levels depend on cure and formulation).
n-hexane: typically not present as an active ingredient in consumer articles; trace residues may occur from processing but tend to dissipate—focus remains on professional/industrial handling.
5. Article Service Life
Articles enter the market and may release trace amounts over time or at end-of-life:
Electronic devices, automotive components, building materials, furniture, and interior assemblies that use BPF/BPAF-based adhesives/coatings or BPAF-containing elastomer seals can shed very low levels via wear, heat, or UV.
Maintenance operations that apply n-hexane (professional settings) can emit vapors; end-of-life dismantling/shredding can generate dust/fines from coatings/adhesives if controls are weak.
Action reminder: Map where BPF/BPAF resins and elastomers sit in your BOMs, identify n-hexane solvent steps, tighten capture/ventilation, optimize cure to lower residuals, and prepare Article 33 communications and—where applicable—Article 7(2) notifications.
What Should Companies Do to Comply with REACH 253 SVHC?
Immediate Actions to Meet the 253 SVHC Obligations
Ongoing Controls: Substitute, Document, and Monitor for 253 SVHC Substances
Conclusion on REACH with 253 SVHC
Ultimately, treat BPAF and n-hexane as “near-certain” SVHCs and move now. Therefore, map where they can occur, engage suppliers with targeted declarations, verify high-risk items, and prepare Article 33 customer notices, and if thresholds and tonnages apply, Article 7(2) notifications. Meanwhile, evaluate substitutions or exposure-minimizing designs so you can pivot quickly without derailing quality, cost, or timelines. Accordingly, embed these checks into NPI gates, automate follow-ups, and monitor monthly so updates never catch you off guard.
In short, act early, document clearly, and iterate. By doing so, you’ll protect your customers, stabilize your supply chain, and future-proof your REACH program. If you want a fast, practical boost, templates, supplier chasers, BOM screening, and a prioritized action plan, Enviropass can help you adapt, comply, and thrive.
Have more questions on SVHC Under REACH? Contact Enviropass for a free consultation!
