EPA proposes new rules for Certain Multi-wall Carbon Nanotubes - Bureau of National Affairs Daily Environment Report, United States

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing a significant new use rule (SNUR) for certain multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCTs) for which it has already received a premanufacture notice. Manufacturers and importers of MWCTs will now have to notify the EPA if they plan to use the substance differently than outlined in their premanufacture submission. The EPA's rule, to be published February 3rd, said it believes that different uses than those described in the premanufacture notice could result in increased exposures, thereby constituting a new use, which the EPA would want to assess and potentially regulate, prior to the proposed use occurring. According to the article, the EPA "... has decided that use of the nanotubes without gloves and protective clothing, thereby creating the potential for exposure through the skin or by inhalation, may cause serious health effects. Serious health effects also could occur if the nanotubes are used without a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health-approved full-face respirator with an N100 cartridge or if it is used in ways other than as described in the premanufacture notice." The EPA is accepting comments on the proposed rule through March 5th.