RIVM ZZS-2-BIO project : the biobased replacement potential of hazardous substances
2014
Es, van, D.S.
A quick scan of the ZZS (zeer zorgwekkende stoffen) list of 371 substances of very high concern shows that there is significant potential in biobased replacement of part of the list. It is shown that in many cases easily implementable biobased alternatives are already available or in advanced stages of development. However, in some cases safe, biobased alternatives are still in early development. This in spite of a growing need for replacement, as is the case for e.g. high polarity aprotic solvents such as DMF, or NMP. Since solvents like NMP enable the manufacturing of environmentally friendly water borne coatings and paints, as well as the development of various carbohydrate based materials, finding effective substitutes should be given high priority. Unfortunately, currently there are no Dutch national science programs that could support or initiate this. Also more advanced, indirect type of replacement appears feasible. An example of possible short term implementation is the partial replacement of toxic ethylene oxide for the production of ethylene glycol by the hydrogenolysis of glucose to ethylene glycol and propylene glycol. Other advanced level replacements require more time, and deeper analysis in order to assess the impact on product/value chains. A shortlist of nine substances that could be replaced by biobased alternatives on short term is also presented in this quick scan report. The suggested biobased alternatives for this shortlist are either already commercially available or close to commercialisation. This quick scan results in a number of recommendations.
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