Research

ECSA sponsors toxicological and eco-toxicological research studies to fill data gaps or address scientific concerns, frequently sharing these with industry partners from the USA and Japan. Some of the most recently published studies concern the potential human carcinogenicity of methylene chloride based on observed liver and lung tumours in mice exposed to the chemical. After a three year third-party study it can now be convincingly demonstrated that the route to liver tumours in mice is not likely to occur in man, and that methylene chloride therefore cannot be considered to be a potential human carcinogen based on studies in mice.

Currently, work is being conducted on the role of trichloroethylene exposure in kidney cancer.

Another major project conducted by ECSA involves support of atmospheric research, by providing data on geographic emission patterns periodically to third party scientists. This work, initiated in 1990, has been vital to improving knowledge of the atmospheric fate of chlorocarbons and has contributed to a better understanding of the role of natural chlorine chemistry.

ECSA members have completed eco-profiles on their products which in turn can be used in Life Cycle Assessment projects, facilitating a scientific judgement on the real environmental performance of chlorinated solvents versus alternatives such as aqueous or hydrocarbon systems. Supporting this, ECSA has developed a set of Best Environmental Practices for its products for use by policy makers involved in the protection of the marine environment (OSPARCOM).

Euro Chlor has also commissioned Science Dossiers as well as carried out Marine Risk Assessments and on chlorinated solvents.

Marine risk assessments on chlorinated solvents

Science Dossiers on chlorinated solvents