Overview
CEN/TR 18325:2026 provides essential guidance for recyclers and producers of rubber materials obtained from End-of-Life Tyres (ELT), focusing on compliance with the European Union’s CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) and REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulations. This standard targets granulates and powders derived from ELTs, helping industry stakeholders identify relevant hazardous substances, assess their classification according to CLP, and support REACH compliance.
Adhering to CLP and REACH requirements is crucial for ensuring that ELT-derived rubber materials are safe for use and meet regulatory obligations within European markets. The document compiles scientific and technical knowledge, references regulatory obligations, and clarifies the pathways to regulatory compliance.
Key Topics
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Hazardous Substance Identification:
The standard outlines procedures for screening ELT-derived rubber for substances of concern, such as 6PPD, silica, zinc, DPG, BPH, and regulated PAHs and metals. This includes reference to concentration thresholds and regulatory updates.
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Hazard Classification under CLP:
Guidance is provided for evaluating whether ELT-derived granulates and powders require classification as hazardous under CLP, considering current scientific evidence and regulatory status of specific substances.
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Support for REACH Compliance:
The document details the registration obligations and exemptions under REACH Article 2.7(d), especially the sameness condition for recovered substances. It explains documentation requirements, such as access to Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and use of information published on the ECHA website.
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Other Applicable EU Regulations:
References are made to additional EU regulations impacting ELT-derived rubber, such as limiting PAH content, restrictions on heavy metals (lead, cadmium), phthalates, and synthetic polymer microparticles.
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Communication and Best Practices:
The importance of providing accurate Safety Data Sheets is emphasized, especially when requested or when ELT-derived rubber contains substances classified as hazardous or as Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC).
Applications
ELT-derived rubber granulates and powders have a wide range of practical applications across multiple sectors:
- Sports and Recreation:
Used in artificial turf infill, shock pads, playground surfaces, and athletic tracks for improved safety and durability.
- Construction and Engineering:
Deployed as acoustic insulation, vibration damping, flooring, building protection, and replacement aggregate in civil works and road construction (rubber-modified asphalt).
- Urban Infrastructure:
Applications include speed bumps, urban furniture, ramps, lane segregation devices, and street furniture.
- Automotive and Industry:
Utilized in mats, molded parts, flooring, and non-passenger compartment components of vehicles.
- Animal Welfare:
Products such as stable mats and animal bedding.
- Consumer Products:
Footwear, carpet underlays, adhesives, and miscellaneous rubber compounds.
These diverse uses underline the importance of ensuring the products are compliant with all relevant safety and chemical regulations.
Related Standards
Stakeholders may also need to refer to the following standards and regulations, which are closely related to CEN/TR 18325:2026:
- REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006: Registration, evaluation, authorisation, and restriction of chemicals in the EU.
- CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008: Classification, labelling, and packaging of substances and mixtures.
- Commission Regulation (EU) 2021/1199: Restricts PAHs in granules used as infill in synthetic turf and sports applications.
- Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/2055: Addresses synthetic polymer microparticles and includes ELT-derived granulates and powders.
- National End-of-Waste criteria: National regulations from countries such as Spain, Italy, and Portugal that specify conditions for ELT-derived products to cease being classified as waste.
- ISO and IEC Standards: For terminology and definitions relevant to rubber and chemical safety.
By aligning operations with CEN/TR 18325:2026 and these related standards, recyclers and manufacturers can facilitate market access, ensure regulatory compliance, and contribute to sustainable circular economy practices for ELT-derived rubber materials.