By Anna Caldiroli
Slovenia has added n-Hexane (EC No.: 203-777-6, CAS No.: 110-54-3, INDEX No.: 601-037-00-0) to the Registry of Intentions for identification as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) under Article 57(f) of the REACH Regulation. The concern arises from its neurotoxic properties, supported by scientific evidence indicating potential serious effects on human health, comparable to those of substances listed under Article 57(a)-(e) of REACH.
The process requires that the intention to propose a substance as an SVHC be published in the Registry of Intentions (ROI) before submitting the official proposal, ensuring stakeholders are informed in advance.
Timeline:
- Date of intention submission: February 5, 2025
- Planned submission date: August 4, 2025
How is n-Hexane classified?
The substance has a harmonized classification listed in Annex VI of the CLP Regulation:
- Flam. Liq. 2 H225
- Repr. 2 H361f ***
- Asp. Tox. 1 H304
- STOT RE 2 * H373 ** (with a specific concentration limit: STOT RE 2; H373: C ≥ 5%)
- Skin Irrit. 2 H315
- STOT SE 3 H336
- Aquatic Chronic 2 H411
This means it poses hazards related to its physicochemical properties (as a highly flammable liquid), human health, and environmental toxicity.
Key Health Effects:
- Acute exposure: Causes skin irritation; high vapor concentrations can lead to unconsciousness. If ingested, aspiration into the lungs may cause chemical pneumonia.
- Chronic exposure: Affects the central and peripheral nervous system, potentially leading to polyneuropathy. Animal studies indicate potential effects on fertility in humans.
What are the physicochemical properties of n-Hexane?
n-Hexane is a non-polar, petroleum-derived solvent with low reactivity, poor water solubility, and high volatility. According to ECHA’s end-point summary, its key physicochemical properties include:
- Boiling point range: > 65 – 72°C (ASTM D 1078)
- Vapor pressure (range): 20-30 kPa (CRC Handbook, 2008)
- Flash point: < -20°C (DIN 51755)
How is n-Hexane used?
The substance has a wide range of applications across consumer, professional, and industrial products, including:
- Polishes and waxes
- Laundry detergents and liquids
- Automotive care products
- Paints, coatings, and adhesives
- Fragrances and air fresheners
- Processing aid for manufacturing
- pH regulators, water treatment chemicals, and laboratory reagents
Additionally, it is used in closed systems with minimal release, such as cooling fluids in refrigerators, oil-based heaters, hydraulic fluids, engine lubricants, and brake fluids.
How do we support customers?
The substance data, including classification, is available on ChemFinder and can be instantly integrated into the user’s software for Mixture Product Composition (MPC) management and other applications.
Harmonized classifications and labeling are continuously updated following the ATP publications of the CLP Regulation.
Once a substance enters the Candidate List, users can immediately access this information through the “List Update” function.
Report Manager, integrated with EpyPlus, allows mapping and monitoring of SVHCs in company archives via dedicated regulatory reports.
Lastly, tailored training sessions for internal regulatory teams are available to ensure compliance and up-to-date knowledge.
