Solvent Emissions Directive (SED)
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The solvent emissions directive (SED) is part of a broader plan to reduce air pollutants throughout Europe. Emissions to the atmosphere of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) contribute to the formation of photochemical oxidants, mainly ozone, at ground level in the presence of sunlight and nitrogen oxides. This so-called ‘summer smog’ which we see especially in densely populated areas, like our major cities, gives rise to adverse human health effects. Also smog can damage agricultural crops and natural vegetation.
The most widely accepted definition of VOC today is: " VOC’s are all organic compounds with an initial boiling point under 250°C at 1 atmosphere". The emission of solvents or VOC is a result of many industrial and human activities amongst which the use of paint and coatings has traditionally been a significant contributor due to the common use of solvent based coatings. A solvent based coating typically can contain up to 30% of solvent, which needs to evaporate during application. It is estimated that 4-5% of all VOC in Europe comes from decorative coatings.
The solvent emission directive was first established in 1999. In 2004 the specific part relating to decorative paints was amended. The decorative paints category is divided into several subcategories depending on the type of paint, for instance if it is a primer, topcoat or exterior coating. For each category the definitions are set for either the solvent or water based version of the paint for the year 2007 (phase I) and 2010 (phase II) - Click here to access to the table.
The other coating sub markets involved in SED are the vehicle refinish industry, which also has a product driven approach. All industrial coating sectors like general industrial, marine and protective, wood, automotive OEM and can and coil are regulated by emission from the end user of the coating. This means emission ceilings have been set for the factories applying the coating of which some examples are relevant for the coating industry Click here and access to the table.
It is generally considered that the coating industry will be severely affected by the SED regulation. Most likely the coatings market size will not change significantly and will grow at average growth rates year by year. Yet, it is estimated that the shape of the market will change dramatically. Raw materials, like standard solvents, or solvent based alkyd resins which are not in line with the SED may be replaced, for a large part, by SED compliant technologies, such as water based, UV based or powderized raw materials.
Univar historically is a strong player in the coating sector for all of Western Europe. The coatings industry team is very much aware of the SED and has focused on optimising its portfolio for the coatings industry since the first adoption of the directive. Today you will find a contemporary portfolio for the coatings industry in each country in which Univar is present.
Contact your technical contact to know more.
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