Overview
SIST-TP CEN/TR 18325:2026 provides comprehensive guidelines on achieving compliance with the European CLP (Classification, Labelling, and Packaging) and REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulations for rubber materials derived from End-of-Life Tyres (ELT), specifically in granulate and powder forms. This standard serves as a valuable resource for ELT recyclers and producers, guiding them in identifying relevant hazardous substances, determining proper hazardous classification under the CLP regulation, and supporting REACH compliance for ELT-derived rubber materials.
Key Topics
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Identification of Hazardous Substances:
The document outlines a science-based approach for identifying hazardous substances commonly present in ELT-derived rubber, such as:
- 6PPD, Silica, Zinc, DPG, and BPH
- Phthalates and PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
- Metals like lead, cadmium, and chromium
Attention is given to the classification and expected concentrations of these substances, ensuring safe and legal management of materials.
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Hazard Classification According to CLP:
Guidance is provided on classifying ELT-derived rubber under the CLP regulation by assessing the concentration of identified substances. The standard covers regulatory thresholds, current classifications, and the necessity for periodic reassessment as regulations change.
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Support for REACH Compliance:
Under REACH, ELT-derived rubbers are considered mixtures. The guidance covers:
- Registration obligations and possible exemptions (e.g., Article 2.7(d))
- The importance of demonstrating the "sameness" of substances like carbon black, simplifying the compliance process
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Communication and SDS:
- When and how to provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS), even if rubber granulates and powders are generally considered non-hazardous
- Conditions under which an SDS must be supplied to downstream users for transparency and compliance
Applications
ELT-derived rubber granulates and powders find broad, practical applications around Europe, benefiting industries and public infrastructure while supporting recycling and sustainability goals. Common applications include:
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Sports and Leisure:
- Infill for artificial turf
- Playgrounds and sports courts surfacing
- Shock-absorbing tiles and flooring
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Civil Engineering and Construction:
- Vibration and acoustic insulation
- Rubber-modified asphalts and road surfaces
- Replacement aggregate in construction
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Consumer, Urban, and Industrial Products:
- Safety mats, anti-slip mats, and flooring solutions
- Urban furniture, lane segregation, and speed breakers
- Components in railway and transport infrastructure
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Agricultural and Animal Welfare:
- Stable mats, livestock mattresses, and growth-inhibiting mats
By complying with SIST-TP CEN/TR 18325:2026, organizations ensure that ELT-derived materials are safe, sustainable, and accepted for a wide range of uses while adhering to strict EU regulations.
Related Standards
Organizations working with ELT-derived rubber should reference these related standards and regulations for a comprehensive compliance framework:
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REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006:
Registration, evaluation, authorisation, and restriction of chemicals, including substance-specific limits for PAHs, lead, cadmium, and phthalates
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CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008:
Classification, labelling, and packaging of substances and mixtures
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COMMISSION REGULATION (EU) 2021/1199:
Limiting PAHs in granules and mulches for sports fields and playgrounds
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COMMISSION REGULATION (EU) 2023/2055 (Entry 78):
Controls over synthetic polymer microparticles, covering ELT-derived granulates and powders
For further technical guidance and definitions, consulting the ISO Online Browsing Platform and IEC Electropedia is also recommended.
By adhering to SIST-TP CEN/TR 18325:2026, stakeholders in the rubber recycling chain can confidently navigate European chemical regulations, supporting the circular economy while ensuring environmental and consumer safety.