Clean Label: efficient and clean biocides

A combination of CMIT and MIT continues to serve as a non-labeling active ingredient alternative to pure methylisothiazolinone formulations for wall paints and offers good biocidal efficacy. (Image: New Africa – Fotolia.com)

From May 31, 2020, new substance-specific concentration limits for methylisothiazolinone (MIT) will apply. To avoid additional hazard warnings on paints, varnishes, adhesives, and construction chemicals, Vink Chemicals provides alternative active ingredient combinations with comparable effectiveness.

The EU has classified mixtures containing MIT as skin sensitizers category 1A and has therefore established a new substance-specific concentration limit of 15 ppm for these chemical classes. The new lower limit applies to paints, varnishes, adhesives, and construction chemicals from May 31, 2020. A mixture containing MIT must then be labeled with the hazard statement H317 "May cause allergic skin reactions" if the concentration reaches 15 ppm.

As an alternative, Vink Chemicals recommends a mixture of CMIT (Chlormethylisothiazolinone) and MIT. CMIT/MIT is already effective at seven to ten ppm, well below the critical 15 ppm threshold. The mixture, which Vink Chemicals supplies in all common container sizes, offers not only at least ten years of future-proofing and advantages in labeling but is also significantly more cost-effective and provides broad-spectrum activity against yeasts, fungi, bacteria, and even dangerous Legionella. CMIT/MIT meets many regulatory requirements concerning indirect food contact. Good synergies are also observed when used in combination with Benzisothiazolinone (BIT). "Manufacturers of binders for the paint industry, printing inks, adhesives, and construction chemicals should switch their products to declaration-free active ingredient combinations in a timely manner," advises biocide expert David Zilm from Vink Chemicals.

To utilize the time until mid-2020 for the necessary testing, compatibility assessments, and microbial contamination tests, Vink Chemicals recommends biocide users seek advice promptly on suitable alternatives for their products. Vink Chemicals offers a comprehensive full-service solution on this topic and can also deliver quickly on short notice.