Internal Project on Hansen Solubility Parameters in grouping polymers

Vitis Regulatory has launched an investigation into the possible application of Hansen Solubility Parameters (HSP) in grouping polymers for registration under the European Union’s REACH Regulation.

With the impending inclusion of polymer registration requirements in REACH, there are still uncertainties regarding the implementation details. The proposed elements consist of notifying the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) about the polymer, grouping of polymers, and then registering groups of polymers that meet predetermined criteria.

Specifics on grouping criteria remain vague, prompting investigation into feasible methodologies. HSP, originally created for the purpose of predicting substance solubility, are currently being evaluated for this purpose based on their versatility and existing familiarity within the polymer industry.

Expanding on previous studies demonstrating HSPs’ correlation with environmental properties for non-polymeric chemicals, a scoping study aimed to assess the applicability of HSP for informing polymer grouping decisions under REACH.

Initial findings from the scoping study indicate the potential of HSP in grouping polymers with similar hazard profiles, aligning with the criteria for Polymers Requiring Registration (PRR). However, the lack of comprehensive polymer datasets hinders conclusive results. While the specific methodology for polymer grouping under REACH remains uncertain, HSP could play a valuable role in informing grouping decisions within polymer types.

Please contact us if we can help you to plan and prepare for implementation of polymer registration in REACH.