ISSUE13
CHEMUK 2019 BIG PREVIEW
SUPPORTED BY
Chemicals Regulation after Brexit - –what next?
UK AND WORLD NEWS • ChemUK 2019 • SUPPLY CHAIN • CBA • big interview • SIA • ctpa • reach
1ST & 2ND May 2019 Yorkshire Event Centre, Harrogate, Yorks
The brand new UK Chemical Industry Supply Chain Expo & Open Conference 2 packed days Unique supply chain expo Leading technology & solutions Industry partners & solutions Free technical conference Industry keynotes Hottest industry topics Skills clinics
FREE TO ATTEND
www.chemicalukexpo.com
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
www.chemicalindustryjournal.co.uk
| welcome |
Welcome
Standing on shifting sands Ellen Rossiter Editor in chief
Editor Ellen Rossiter ellen.rossiter@distinctivepublishing.co.uk
Design Distinctive Publishing, 3rd Floor, Tru Knit House, 9-11 Carliol Square, Newcastle, NE1 6UF Tel: 0191 580 5990 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk
Advertising Distinctive Publishing, 3rd Floor, Tru Knit House, 9-11 Carliol Square, Newcastle, NE1 6UF Tel: 0191 5805990 Helen Flintoff Business Development Manager email: helen.flintoff@distinctivegroup.co.uk www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk
Welcome to the Chemical Industry Journal, you’ll feel the ramifications of a no-deal Brexit reverberating through this issue. 60% of the UK’s chemical exports went to the EU in 2017 – so what will it mean for the industry when we leave? Read on to find out more about the possible impact of a no-deal Brexit. The regulatory landscape after the UK has left the EU remains unclear. Is it possible to transpose EU REACH into UK law? Even if this is possible and desired - what are the implications of such a move? In this issue, we learn about the regulatory complexities involved, lwhat any transition period may hold and about the possible consequences should the UK decide to diverge from EU law. We also gain an insight into how the cosmetics sector is preparing for the changes and the contingency planning underway. Whilst in the solvents sector, we are given an update on activities and achievements over the last twelve months. Cyber security is another priority for the chemical industry, so we discover what needs to be done to respond to the threat. Accepting the unthinkable could happen is a necessity. Cultural change may also be required if the threat of cyber-attacks is to be mitigated. So, we also hear about the help that is at hand to make our systems more secure. Another theme that comes through loud and clear in this issue, is the question of ‘leadership’. What does it mean to be a leader in the chemical industry and what are your responsibilities?
Distinctive Publishing or Chemical Industry Journal cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised or late entries. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers and Chemical Industry Journal
Is leadership about personal competence or rather about creating a safety conscious culture throughout your organisation and ensuring your colleagues are equipped to meet their responsibilities too?
3
If the latter is the case, how do we best provide training and engage the whole of our workforce in process safety? Moreover, how do we maintain this focus at a time when the industry stands on shifting sands and change seems the only certainty. Sharing industry best practice has a crucial role to play and in this edition, commentators from around the industry share their insights into the meaning of ‘leadership’. Another opportunity to share best practice is represented by CHEMUK 2019 when the chemical industry will converge on Harrogate. This brand new, exhibition and speaker programme, to be held at the beginning of May, will bring together the UK’s chemical processing and chemical product formulation Industries. Also in this issue, we follow Stevie Mitchell’s journey from the steelyards of Clydeside to an MBA and beyond. Find out how he is making his mark as a programme manager of a £330m+ Energy from Waste Plant EPC project. Turn the page to read his story. Read our ‘elementals’ section for an overview of news-in-brief from across the industry and related disciplines, and don’t forget to get in touch so we can share your stories in future issues. Finally, we can’t publish our first edition of the year without mentioning that 2019 has been designated the International Year of the Periodic Table of Chemical Elements by the United Nations. Marking 150 years since Mendeleev published his breakthrough work, events are planned throughout the year to mark the occasion.
| contents |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
features
Process Safety Management - rethinking leadership
28
16 UK chemical industries to converge in Harrogate for new expo, CHEMUK 2019 UK REACH – why the Government’s no deal proposals are unworkable
4
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| contents |
contents
32
www.chemicalindustryjournal.co.uk
3
Introduction/Foreword
4-5
Contents
/
issue 13
6-7 Elementary News from our sector
8
Contributors
10-14 News 16-25
54
ChemUK 2019
The CHEMUK 2019 event will bring together the UK’s chemical processing & chemical product formulation industries, providing an intensive 2-day supply chain sourcing, business networking, intelligence gathering, best-practice & strategy development experience.
28-29 CBA
UK REACH – why the Government’s no deal proposals are unworkable
32-33
36-37 52-53
54-57
Big Interview
We speak to Richard Roff and Neil Smith about their work with the Process Safety Management (PSM) Competence Programme Board.
Solvents Industry Association
News and views from the Solvents Industry Association.
CTPA
The Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association (CTPA) acts as the voice of the UK industry.
REACH
Chemicals Regulation after Brexit – what next?
Chemicals Regulation after Brexit – what next?
5
/
| elementary |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
ELEMENTARY
Breakthrough prize public Nanoplastic particles nominations open accumulation
Multi-billion pound energy project unveiled
The public nomination period for the 2020 Breakthrough Prizes in Fundamental Physics, Life Sciences and Mathematics is now open. Prizes will be awarded in fall 2019, during a live, globally televised gala awards ceremony in Silicon Valley. Nominations can be submitted online today through April 1, 2019. While self-nominations are prohibited, anyone may nominate another person. The nomination form and rules are available at breakthroughprize.org.
A ground-breaking study has shown it takes a matter of hours for billions of minute plastic nanoparticles to become distributed throughout the major organs of a marine organism.
A consortium of six global energy giants has unveiled phase one of their plans to create a huge power plant on Teesside which will run on natural clean gas.
The research, led by the University of Plymouth, examined the uptake of nanoparticles by a commercially important mollusc, the great scallop (Pecten maximus).
Branded the ‘Clean Gas Project’, it will be the world’s first gas-powered energy plant to deploy full-chain Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) at scale, meaning CO2 from the plant will be captured and then stored via pipelines under the North Sea. The infrastructure created would also enable wider industry on Teesside and elsewhere to capture and store CO2 from their processes.
After six hours exposure in the laboratory, billions of particles measuring 250nm (around Government funded electric car chargepoints to be smart by July 2019
Scientists discover a new Bacteria-fighting polymers Electric vehicle route to antibiotics created with light chargepoints Scientists have discovered a new chemical process – also known as a biosynthetic pathway – in bacteria which could lead to a new generation of antibiotics being produced and manufactured. Researchers at The University of Manchester’s School of Chemistry say their new pathway includes an enzyme, called a carboxylase, which adds CO2 to a precursor molecule producing a highly unusual antibiotic called malonomycin. The team says the biosynthetic process used to produce this antibiotic could now possibly lead to the discovery and development of other drugs, helping in the fight against drug-resistant bugs and illnesses in the future.
Hundreds of polymers – which could kill drugresistant superbugs in novel ways – can be produced and tested using light, using a method developed at the University of Warwick. The new methodology may help identify antimicrobials for a range of applications from personal care to coatings. Researchers from the Department of Chemistry and Warwick Medical School developed a way to synthesise large libraries of polymers, in such a way to make their screening for antimicrobial activity faster, and without the need to use sealed vials
All government funded home chargepoints for electric vehicles must use innovative ‘smart’ technology from July 2019, the government announced today (14 December 2018), fulfilling the commitment in the Road to Zero Strategy published earlier this year. This means chargepoints must be able to be remotely accessed, and capable of receiving, interpreting and reacting to a signal. Smart charging can also reduce high peaks of electricity demands, minimising the cost of electric vehicles to the electricity system – and keeping costs down for consumers by encouraging off-peak charging.0.00025mm) had accumulated mostly within the scallop intestine.
‘Green’ cling film
Lotus leaf inspires
GSK to divest Horlicks
University of Nottingham researchers have developed 100 percent biodegradable and edible food packaging made from plant carbohydrates and proteins to replace polluting plastic materials and improve storage, safety and shelf life.
Using inspiration from nature, a team of European researchers have harnessed new photonics technology to develop the first fluid-repellent, antibacterial, metal surface taking us a step closer to self-cleaning saucepans, toilets, and dishwashers.
Following the completion of its previously announced strategic review, GlaxoSmithKline plc has announced the divestment of Horlicks and other consumer healthcare nutrition brands to Unilever plc (“Unilever”) and the merger of GSK Consumer Healthcare Limited (“GSK India”) with Hindustan Unilever Limited (“HUL”) for a total consideration valued at approximately £3.1 billion based on the 15-day volume weighted average price (VWAP) ending Friday 30 November 2018 of HUL shares of INR1,717. Net proceeds are estimated to be approximately £2.4 billion on the same basis.
The Sino-UK project is led by Professor Saffa Riffat, from the Faculty of Engineering. Using a special technical approach, the team is working on plastic films derived from konjac flour and starch, cellulose or proteins that are fully edible and harmless if accidentally eaten by people or animals.
Taking their ideas from defence mechanisms found in plants such as the Lotus leaf, the ‘High Throughput Laser Texturing of Self-Cleaning and Antibacterial Surfaces’, or ‘TresClean’ project, has made a breakthrough that will enable the production of self-cleaning sheet metal on an industrial scale for the first time.
6
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| elementary |
ELEMENTARY
University of Sheffield to Blacktrace expands its lead €4 million research presence in Japan
New sensor detects Sarin in minutes
The University of Sheffield will lead a €4 million research project and train a new cohort of thought leaders to drive the transition towards a more sustainable mode of production and consumption in Europe over the coming decades.
Blacktrace, has increased its presence in Japan by opening a new office in Kanagawa and doubling its sales team, help the company to meet increasing demand from the biology, chemistry and microfluidics sectors.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a stamp-sized sensor that can detect trace amounts of certain chemical warfare agents, such as sarin, within minutes. The research is published in the journal ACS Omega.
Realising the Transition to the Circular Economy (ReTraCE) is a research project funded by Horizon 2020 EU’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Innovative Training Networks and will support the implementation of the European Commission’s Circular Economy strategy.
The expansion elevates the Japan sales team’s ability to support customers working in the rapidly growing area of single cell genomics. Blacktrace’s newest brand – Dolomite Bio – is a key technology provider in this field, where its Nadia Instrument is helping to accelerate disease research and drug discovery in areas such as oncology and neurology.
The technology established in this new paper built on previous work from the Braun group, which had developed “chemical black holes” on a small hydrogel surfaces that drew molecules toward a point sensor via a chemical potential gradient.
Check air quality online
Researchers wake-up DNA 3D silicon quantum chips
The University of Brighton has launched online air quality data so residents can see which times and days were more polluted than others. The service could help those with respiratory diseases such as asthma avoid outdoor exposure when levels of pollutants are at their highest. The readings come from the University’s £250,000 Air Environment Research (AER) monitoring station at Falmer, the first of its kind in the UK.
Scleric Acid has been discovered by capturing and engineering a DNA fragment from soil bacteria Streptomyces sclerotialus, and could help fight bacterial infections - by researchers at the School of Life Sciences and Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick.
Nouryon partners with Unilever
AGCS extends Partnership Short story or article to share?
Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals) has officially launched the third edition of its Imagine Chemistry collaborative innovation challenge. Through this program, the company invites startups, scale-ups, university spin-outs, and other potential partners to tackle chemistryrelated challenges and uncover new ways to create value for customers. To increase the focus on developing business opportunities from this year’s edition, Nouryon has expanded the number of Imagine Chemistry partners to include Unilever; seed investor HighTech Gründerfonds; and the Green Chemistry & Commerce Council (GC3), a collaboration that drives the commercial adoption of green chemistry.
A team led by Dr Christophe Corre and Dr Manuela Tosin have had published in Chemical Science the characterisation of a new bioactive natural product whose derivatives could be used as antibiotics and help fight infections.
Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS), are expanding their partnership to provide a unique analytic resource to policyholders. Specifically, clients will benefit from access to ChemMeta®, Praedicat’s software solution delivering science and regulatory risk analytics for industrial companies. ChemMeta helps both chemical manufacturers and those who incorporate chemicals downstream minimize their product safety risks. Based on the latest peer-reviewed scientific literature and risk analysis, ChemMeta provides companies customized intelligence on thousands of chemicals and materials to help make better decisions across critical functions, including product stewardship, R&D, enterprise risk management, EHS and regulatory affairs.
7
Scientists at the University of New South Wales have shown that their pioneering single atom technology can be adapted to building 3D silicon quantum chips – with precise interlayer alignment and highly accurate measurement of spin states. The 3D architecture is considered a major step in the development of a blueprint to build a largescale quantum computer.
Send them to our Editor, Ellen Rossiter, at ellen.rossiter@distinctivepublishing.co.uk
| contributors biodigestables | |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY | CHEMICAL JOURNAL INDUSTRY SUMMER JOURNAL 2018 |
Peter Newport Chief Executive of the Chemical Business Association (CBA) CBA is a not-for-profit business organisation representing the independent chemical supply chain in the UK. Its member companies distribute, pack, and blend over four million tonnes of chemicals each year with a market value of almost three billion euros. Peter is a key industry advocate to governmental and regulatory authorities in the UK and Europe. He is also a board member and current Treasurer of the European Association for Chemical Distributors (Fecc) and a board member of the International Chemical Trade Association (ICTA).
Dr Emma Meredith Director-General, CTPA Emma is a pharmacist by profession. As DirectorGeneral Emma is responsible for the strategic direction of CTPA and acts as the public voice of the Association. In her former role as Director of Science at CTPA, Emma was responsible for the full portfolio of scientific and technical work at the Association, dealing with many and varied ingredient issues and technical guidance on bringing a cosmetic product to the market. Emma also represents the CTPA on several committees at Cosmetics Europe, including Task Force Microplastics, and is a Vice-chair of the Science Strategic Core Team.
Olivia Santoni Director, Regulatory and International Services at CTPA Olivia studied law at the University of Paris Rene Descartes specialising in Business Law and Health Product Law, and manages the Regulatory and International team at CTPA. Olivia is leading the Association’s work on the impact of Brexit on the cosmetics industry, being an active participator in the Confederation of Business Industry (CBI) meetings on the EU Exit and is part of the Trade Facilitation Expert Panel of the BEIS Office for Product Safety & Standards (OPSS). Olivia is also a member of a number of Cosmetics Europe, the European personal care association, groups and is a Vice-chair of Cosmetics Europe’s International Strategic Core Team.
Neil Smith Cogent Skills
Richard Roff Group Process Safety Manager, Costain
Elizabeth Shepherd Partner, Eversheds Sutherland
A founder member of the PSM Competence Programme Board, Neil has taken a leading role in the development of the PSM training standards and assuring the programme is supported with the highest quality trainers. Neil leads the on the design of bespoke training for employers both within the UK and internationally, such as Unilever and Johnson Matthey.
As Group Process Safety Manager, Richard advises Costain on the strategic implementation of process safety management techniques across its all of its sectors and service lines with focus on contracts with high-hazard Clients. He is also involved in auditing, incident investigation, defining company guidance and education in process safety and leadership.
Elizabeth Shepherd is a Partner and Head of Eversheds Sutherland’s International Environment group, advising clients on a broad range of environmental matters. Elizabeth and her team are closely involved with the chemical industry, and Elizabeth has previously given evidence to the Environmental Audit Committee on the future of the chemical industry after Brexit.
Richard joined the PSM Competence Programme Board in 2014 and has been Chair since May 2015.
Contributors
Dr Carol Treasure Co-Founder and CEO, XCellR8
Carolyn Nicholls Operations Director at RAS Limited
Carol leads the team at award-winning lab XCellR8. The company offers in vitro safety testing services to chemical ingredient manufacturers, which are 100% animal-free. XCellR8 has received regulatory recognition for its innovative animal-product-free adaptations of existing safety tests such as those for skin sensitisation, and Carol is passionate about developing new testing methodologies that are both scientifically and ethically sound.
Carolyn leads a team of risk and hazard management consultants and has been instrumental in creating the company’s assessment methodologies. Carolyn has experience of working with a large number of UK COMAH sites to develop safety reports and provide support in all aspects of risk management.
8
I can be proud that my company has confidence in my skills and professionalism and is willing to invest in its employees. The path to CChem via the internal accredited route is a rigorous process that recognises the high standards of training that my company offers. My one piece of advice? Get chartered! Ellen Gallimore MRSC CChem applicant Research Scientist, Medicinal Chemistry, UCB
Nurture professional excellence and technical skill Invest in your employees’ professional recognition to showcase their experience, expertise and dedication Demonstrate your commitment to employee development Our accreditation helps you to recruit and retain talented chemical scientists, to attract customers and to display competence to regulators
Recognise and reward competence Achieving chartered status (CChem, CSci, CEnv) builds personal confidence and professional credibility for your chemical scientists
Find out more To request our guide to accrediting your professional development scheme contact us at cchem@rsc.org or visit rsc.li/accreditation-booklet Registered charity number: 207890
| news |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
£7 million investment approved for new FUJIFILM biocampus A £7million investment into a major biotechnology facility has been agreed by the Tees Valley Mayor and the Tees Valley Combined Authority Cabinet. The investment, which will aid the development of FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies’ £14.5million BioCampus project at its site in Billingham, is expected to lead to the creation of up to 50 high-value jobs and add £4million per year to the regional economy. The development will see the creation of 4,000sqm of highspecification office space which could also be converted into laboratory space, primarily used for manufacturing and business support for the existing 250 staff. FUJIFILM Diosynth’s biopharmaceutical science and technology operations, which include recombinant protein production, position it at the leading edge of a key Tees Valley sector. It has seen considerable growth in the region, expanding its Stockton site over the past 20 years, from 90 employees to around 600 today. Last year, it opened a £7million state-of-the-art biotech facility at Redcar’s Wilton International. FUJIFILM UK’s vision for the site is to create a thriving bioscience campus, with a phased master plan for the creation of this. Phase one will be supported by this cash and the vision for two further phases could see the creation of a further 200 jobs, adding even more value to the economy. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, who chairs the Combined Authority, said: “FUJIFILM’s Billingham plant is going from strength to strength. It provides well-paid jobs for local people, and there is huge potential to expand this valuable asset even further. “In May I led a delegation as part of the Tees Valley’s first trade mission to the Far East, where I met some of FUJIFILM’s top executives in Japan to thank them
personally for putting their faith in our economy, and outlined the fantastic opportunities for growth in this region. “I’m pleased these plans have come to fruition and this multinational company and household name, which plays such an important role in the Tees Valley, has again shown confidence in our region. I look forward to working with them in the future to grow their business even more.” Cllr Bob Cook, Stockton Borough Council Leader and Cabinet Member of the Tees Valley Combined Authority said: “FUJIFILM Diosynth is central to our flourishing health and biologics sector in the Tees Valley. “This funding could unlock further investment from the business, driving forward more jobs and economic growth, as well as highlighting the region as a global leader in the field.” Paul Found, Chief Operating Officer at FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies, Billingham, said: “Our operations in the Tees Valley continue to provide a foundation for the growth of FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies as a leading provider of development and manufacturing services in the global biotechnology sector. We are delighted that the Mayor and TVCA support our mission to advance tomorrow’s medicines and provide truly life changing therapies to patients world-wide. The TVCA funding reinforces our internal investment strategy that seeks to further develop and grow our organisation with formal conclusion of the BioCampus Phase 1 funding approval anticipated in January 2019.” The proposal was approved at the Combined Authority’s Cabinet meeting on November 30. The Combined Authority has pledged a total of £7.062million for the £14.5million scheme. Match funding of £5.437million has been provided by FUJIFILM, with a further £1million from Tees Valley Business Compass capital grant support scheme, and £1million from the Local Growth Fund.
10
HSD Safety half-page ARTWORK.pdf
1
25/08/2016
12:08
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Specialist Label Manufacturers Print Systems that Keep you Compliant to Chemical Legislation
0114 242 21
chemicals@
11
dura-id.com
dura-id.com
11
| news |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
New patrolling robots to eradicate petrol plant explosions Autonomous robots fitted with tiny chemical sensors that listen to the ‘sounds’ coming off gases will instantly detect gas leaks in petrochemical plants and pipelines to dramatically improve disaster responses. The risk of a petrol plant explosion or a potential disaster on an oil refinery could be dramatically reduced thanks to a new generation of tiny chemical sensors that use light and sound to ‘listen to’ gas leaks. Fitted to an autonomous patrolling robot, the tiny ‘Photo-Acoustic’ gas sensors will be part of a wireless network continuously monitoring pipelines that can instantly identify petroleum, hydrogen sulphide, and a number of toxic gases, before alerting operatives in an oil rig or chemical plant. Current state of the art technologies can take anything up to 8 minutes per measurement and give off ‘false positives’ when detecting gas leaks. However, a group of EU researchers are exploiting new techniques that combine both photonic and acoustic technologies to positively identify a leak in milliseconds. The multi-discipline consortium, calling themselves ‘REDFINCH’ (or mid infraREd Fully Integrated CHemical sensors) have combined light together with sound to increase the detection sensitivity of the wavelength ‘fingerprint’ of a gas so that it can be positively identified. Project dissemination manager, David Williams explains: “To use a monitoring system where lives and expensive equipment are at stake, the ability to act instantaneously is paramount.”
platforms, never considered before with automated gas detection, we have come up with the solution of Photonic Integrated Circuits used with micro PhotoAcoustic Sensors (PIC-μPAS)” Williams said. As well as the wreckage and considerable expense, events like the Magodo Gas Plant Explosion in Nigeria (2015), the Port of Rizhao petrol plant explosion (2015) in China, and the Buncefield oil storage explosion in Hatfield, England (2005) can devastate communities, leaving a mark for generations. “The REDFINCH consortium is developing Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs), using hybrid and monolithic integration of III-V diode and Interband Cascade/ Quantum Cascade materials with silicon to create high performance, cost effective sensors. Essentially using light and sound together allows us to produce a more specific detection and to be more accurate.” The REDFINCH team believe they can create a detector that is several times cheaper and more robust than existing technologies. “By integrating all the components, such as the laser, the detector and the sensing chamber all onto one single chip, we reduce the possible points of failure and more importantly, the ‘noise’ ratio to improve the sensing capabilities. Shifting everything onto one silicon chip makes things more convenient and less expensive.” said Williams. The developed sensors can be quickly scaled up to volume production using the mirPHAB pilot line, an Horizon 2020 funded pilot line for mid-infrared PIC development in Europe, which also closely involves a number of REDFINCH partners.
“Current detection technology using infrared systems is often large, bulky, slow, and the detectable wavelengths are restricted. By combining a number of different
12
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| news |
New £8 million research projects to re-think plastics production and use Eight new research projects that will explore new and different ways of making, using and recycling plastics have been announced by the Science Minister, Chris Skidmore. The researchers will investigate alternatives to fossil-based materials for plastics, as well as looking into the complex factors involved in the life cycle of plastic materials, from consumers’ and business’ needs and behaviours, to how to use technology to reclaim or break down plastics. Through the recently published Bioeconomy Strategy, part of the modern Industrial Strategy, the government has identified producing less carbon intensive products, including plastics, as a key challenge area alongside reducing plastic waste. This will lead to a circular economy where greater emphasis is placed on ‘use, reuse and recycle’ Science Minister, Chris Skidmore said: “We have all seen the devastating effects that plastics waste has on our environment, threatening the biodiversity of our oceans and introducing micro-plastics into the food chain. “We are committed to tackling this problem, from developing a plastic-eating bacteria to finding new ways to recycle. These projects have the potential to lead us to a cleaner, greener economy but also ensure the UK is at the forefront of the latest innovations and products that will be in high demand across the world through our modern Industrial Strategy.” The announcement came on the day that the government unveiled its Resources and Waste Strategy. Among other initiatives, the Strategy puts the legal onus on producers of damaging waste, introduces a consistent set of recyclable materials collected from all households and businesses, and introduces a deposit return scheme, subject to consultation, to increase the recycling of single-use drinks containers. The eight, far-reaching projects are based at single higher education institutions and are multidisciplinary collaborations that will bring new thinking to the plastics
13
challenge. The projects commence in early 2019 and include: Designing-out Plastic Waste, led by University College London, which will create a new bacteria-based recycling technology for plastics that will consume plastics, breaking them down into reusable material. A new Plastics Waste Innovation Hub will also be created at the University, bringing together researchers and businesses to consider new and innovative methods to recycle plastics. Evolving a circular plastics economy led by the University of Hull, will seek to develop biodegradable biopolymers, meaning the plastics will not persist in the environment and can be repurposed following disposal and breakdown. RE3 - Rethinking Resources and Recycling led by The University of Manchester will develop graphene membrane filters for the removal of micro-plastics in water and a new chemical-method of recycling contaminated and mixed soft plastic materials. The projects were successful in the Creative Circular Economy Approaches to Eliminate Plastics Waste competition, and are among the first to be funded through the Plastics Research Innovation Fund (PRIF). The Fund, managed by UK Research and Innovation, is engaging Britain’s best scientists and innovators to help move the country towards more circular economic and sustainable approaches to plastics. It is delivered via the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), Innovate UK, with strategic oversight from Professor Duncan Wingham, Executive Chair of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). This follows the recent government announcement confirming that £60m through the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund will research more sustainable packaging being produced. The specific aim of one of the projects will seek to create new forms of packaging and plastic made from farming, food and industrial waste, moving away from oil-based plastics.
| news |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Cambridge researchers developing self-healing concrete Researchers at the University of Cambridge are using microencapsulation technologies developed by Dolomite Microfluidics to develop self-healing construction materials. As highlighted in recent BBC News broadcasts, the Department of Engineering’s Geotechnical and Environmental Research Group is developing microcapsules containing ‘healing’ agents – such as minerals, epoxy or polyurethane – which can be added to building materials to allow self-repair of small cracks which develop over time. Dr Livia Ribeiro de Souza, a postdoctoral researcher in the group, explained: “Many composite building materials used in the construction industry – such as concrete – suffer fatigue over time, developing small cracks. We are hoping to overcome this problem by adding microcapsules filled with ‘healing’ agents to the concrete before it is used. The idea is that, as cracks begin to form, they rupture the microcapsules, releasing their payload and stabilizing the material.”
“This approach requires the formation and functionalization of double emulsion microcapsules, which we have been producing with the help of microfluidics. We have been using a Dolomite Microfluidics system since 2014, and find that microfluidics offers much better control of particle size and composition than traditional emulsification polymerization techniques, simplifying the investigation and optimization of particle properties.” The Dolomite system has enabled the researchers to create functionalized microcapsules that bind more strongly to the cement matrix, while also having thinner shell walls and higher core retention, improving their self-healing properties. Livia continued: “It is good to be able to discuss any issues we’re having with the experts at Dolomite Microfluidics, helping to accelerate our research and move us a step closer to real world applications.” For more information visit www.dolomite-microfluidics.com.
“Many composite building materials used in the construction industry – such as concrete – suffer fatigue over time, developing small cracks. We are hoping to overcome this problem by adding microcapsules filled with ‘healing’ agents to the concrete before it is used. The idea is that, as cracks begin to form, they rupture the microcapsules, releasing their payload and stabilizing the material.”
£24 million for new research into major environmental topics New research on major environmental issues, such as the impact of microplastics in our oceans, the UK potential for geothermal power and mitigating climate change, have been funded under the fourth round of NERC highlight topics. Around £24 million has been split between 14 research projects spanning a wide range of important topics generated by the UK environmental science community. The selection of highlight topic projects is a competitive process to ensure that the most excellent science is funded.
From understanding how soil can capture carbon, to investigating the impact of light pollution on coastal creatures, these awards fund research areas essential to help us understand our environment and how we live within it. NERC Associate Director of Research Ned Garnett said: “The highlight topics programme allows us to receive ideas from both the research community and users of environmental science to ensure that we are providing funding where it is most needed. The provision of top quality environmental research has never been more essential as we continue to tackle some of the greatest environmental challenges of our time.”
14
hfl
consulting Safety Sustainability Profitability
Supporting sustainably safe and profitable operations. Most would agree that good business performance is linked to good operational and process safety performance, built on sound practices and procedures. At HFL Consulting, we provide a unique blend of leadership, management, consulting, engineering and training services, that makes us the natural partner of choice for many of the UK’s most prominent chemical manufacturing and chemical using companies. Find out more about how we can help improve your performance. T 0161 304 5902 E info@hflconsulting.uk W hflconsulting.uk
People Plant Process Productivity
| chemuk 2019 |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
UK chemical industries to converge in Harrogate for new expo, CHEMUK 2019 Industry professionals from all sides of the SPEAKER PROGRAMME UK’s chemicals sector are set to descend on the The 2-day speaker programme will deliver some 20+ hours Yorkshire Event Centre, Harrogate, Yorkshire on of free to attend expert intelligence, best practice and tech-insight ‘snapshots’, to inspire and assist next level 1st & 2nd May 2019, for the brand new, free to investment and operational strategies for attending industry attend CHEMUK 2019 UK supply chain expo & groups across the UK chemicals & chemical product sectors. speaker programme. The CHEMUK 2019 event will bring together the UK’s chemical processing & chemical product formulation industries, providing an intensive 2-day supply chain sourcing, business networking, intelligence gathering, bestpractice & strategy development experience. Designed to introduce new relationships and strengthen existing ones throughout the intersecting layers of the UK’s ‘chemical sector’, the event allows the ‘industry’ to consider the big challenges and opportunities.
2-DAY CHEMICALS INDUSTRY SUPPLY CHAIN EXPO CHEMUK 2019 will provide visitor groups with a diverse and impressive showcase of 170+ specialist exhibitors showcasing latest plant, equipment, materials and services supporting the chemicals industries, driving operational performance, efficiency, future-proofing, safety, compliance and more..
Keynote speakers will seek to address the BIG topics influencing and affecting Chemical industry businesses e.g. Chemical Industry 4.0, Green Chemistry, Brexit & Regulatory landscape, Supply Chain Management, Disruptive Technologies & Transformational strategy, Process Safety... and more.
FEATURE STREAMS: CONNECTED MANUFACTURING PLUS GREEN CHEMISTRY Two of the hottest ‘mega trends’ facing the Chemicals sector are planned to receive special focus – namely the crucial requirement for adaptation to Industry4.0/digital-focused business and operational models, and the overwhelming pressures towards more ‘circular economy’ bio-based consumer and industrial products. From discussions on the importance of incorporating digital connected business models, driving efficiencies and competitiveness and understanding latest digital tools from
“The chemical industry is profoundly affected currently by a host of major industrial and market changes and CHEMUK aims to provide connectivity with solutions providers, thought leaders, industry bodies to help navigate through essential next steps, as well as provide vital ‘intelligence takeaways’ to facilitate next steps in vital planning and investment programmes.” 16
CHEMUK 2019 WILL PROVIDE VISITOR GROUPS WITH A DIVERSE AND IMPRESSIVE SHOWCASE OF 170+ SPECIALIST EXHIBITORS
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| chemuk 2019 |
Exhibitor showcase set to embrace: Reaction/Process Plant, Equipment & Engineering
Chemical sector skills & recruitment
Formulation Plant, Equipment & Engineering
Regulatory/Compliance solutions & mgmt.
Bulk Solids & Liquids handling solutions
Environmental, Emissions & Energy mgmt
Pumps, Valves & Flow Solutions
Business Services & Consultancy
Industrial Health & Safety/Security
Regional & Sector trade & technical bodies
Automation, Control & Instrumentation
Basic Petrochemicals & Polymers suppliers
Laboratory Equipment / Testing & Analytical services
Basic Inorganics suppliers
Contract/Toll/Private label manufacturing services
Fine & Speciality Chemicals suppliers
Chemical Logistics, Storage & Handling
Process Chemicals, Additives & Intermediates suppliers
Industry 4.0 (IIOT,Big Data, AI etc)
Green Chemistry solutions/suppliers …. and more
AI & Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) in the processing environment to Big-Data and its application benefits, to discussing raw materials and process innovations supporting the increasingly ‘green’ product landscape, the 2 day show floor and related open conference programme will seek to address these head on. Show organiser, Ian Stone, comments: “The chemical industry is profoundly affected currently by a host of major industrial and market changes and CHEMUK aims to provide connectivity with solutions providers, thought leaders, industry bodies to help navigate through essential next steps, as well as provide vital ‘intelligence takeaways’ to facilitate next steps in vital planning and investment programmes.”
SECTORS IN FOCUS Feature ‘sector-specific’ sessions will address the needs of key end-user/formulation industries and corresponding challenges for the chemicals industries - including sectors such as Cosmetics, Personal Care Products, I&I Cleaning Products, Adhesives & Sealants and others...
HARROGATE VENUE
& Instrumentation, Test & Inspection, Manufacturing, Formulation, Logistics, Procurement & Supply Chain, R&D & Scientific professionals plus Chemical industry business teams. Stone continues: “CHEMUK provides the perfect tailored environment for those industry professionals throughout both the chemicals processing and chemical-based product formulation industries, to meet a host of both established as well as new supply chain groups.” Organisers are anticipating attendee groups from across the broad industrial chemicals processing & distribution sectors, from petrochemicals & base chemicals, to fine & speciality, intermediates & additives, polymers, inorganics, dyes, pigments, green chemicals, process chemicals and more, Stone comments “whether sourcing supply chain materials partners, or essential plant, equipment , apparatus or specialist industry-support services, CHEMUK 2019 is designed to create a ‘one stop shop’ environment for chemicals sector sourcing & partner development. Equally, the event provides chemical-based formulated product industries, from the cosmetics & personal care industries to paints & coatings, household & industrial cleaning, pharmaceuticals, water treatment, plastics and others, with crucial access to supply chain raw materials, chemical product processing plant & technologies, support services.
Hosted at the recently completed Yorkshire Event Centre in Harrogate (Leeds City Region), CHEMUK 2019 is located to be equidistant between the crucially important North West, Humber & Teesside chemical cluster regions. In addition, providing easy access for the important Yorkshire-based chemical & bio industries plus good central UK positioning. With FREE ENTRY into all exhibits, features & presentations, plus on-site FREE PARKING, as well as easy access by rail and air, the venue provides an easy experience for all visitor groups
INDUSTRIAL LOGISTICS & CONTRACT MANUFACTURING
WHO SHOULD VISIT?
B2B MEETINGS
CHEMUK 2019 reaches out to all key chemicals/ chemical product & chemical using industries, targeting Chemical Process Engineers, Operational, HS&E, Control
Pre-registered visitors to CHEMUK 2019 will be able to pre-arrange meetings with other visitor groups as well as exhibiting companies in advance using the event’s online B2B networking tool.
For attendee groups looking for industrial logistics, contract manufacturing & packaging solutions, the event will host a cross section of leading providers supported with tailored best-practice and intelligence.
Dates for the Diary CHEMUK 2019 takes place on Wednesday 1st & Thursday 2nd May, 2019
Opening Times:
Venue:
Day 2: 9.00am – 4.00pm
Yorkshire Event Centre, Harrogate, Yorkshire
FREE PARKING for all visitors
Day 1: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Register NOW for your FREE entry badge at www.chemicalukexpo.com
17
| chemuk exhibitors |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
See us at stand J21
See us at stand J20
For over 30 years, Newson Gale has been manufacturing static grounding equipment, serving industries where processes generating static electricity have the potential to ignite flammable or combustible atmospheres.
Dura-ID Solutions are a specialist label manufacturer with over 20 years’ experience in the chemical industry. From brands such as Neuralabel, OKI, Toshiba and Zebra, we have a full colour or thermal transfer solution that will improve your in-house labelling process. Our chemical labelling experts are always on hand to provide you with advice on GHS, CLP and REACH legislation. As manufacturers we also have access to a number of exclusive materials and printers that resellers simply do not and because of this we are the leading labelling industry experts. Get in touch to talk about your labelling requirements today. www.dura-id.com
In many branches of industry, hazardous (explosive) atmospheres exist due to the presence of flammable liquids, liquid vapors, gases, dusts and fibers, making it vital to eliminate all potential ignition sources. Fires and explosions can occur as a result of uncontrolled static discharge from equipment, people and materials. To help control these risks, Newson Gale offers a wide range of static grounding and bonding solutions for use in explosive atmospheres and other hazardous operating environments. To contact us call 0115 940 7500 or visit our website www.newson-gale.co.uk
See us at stand F25
See us at stand J12
RAS Ltd is an independent firm of risk experts specialising in major accident hazards. RAS work with a number of the leading companies in the oil and gas and specialist chemical sectors to help them manage their safety, environment and business risks.
Perry Process Equipment Ltd supplies high quality used process plant and equipment to the chemical, pharmaceutical, food and beverage industries. With equipment immediately available from stock and competitively priced, we are one of the leading dealers of used machinery worldwide. Established in the UK in 1990, we go beyond just buying and selling used equipment. We have a team of experienced and knowledgeable staff to assist with equipment sourcing, mechanical refurbishment, international payment options, export packing and logistics, equipment disposal, and support with the dismantling and removal of plants, lines and equipment. Browse our entire inventory of process equipment online at www.perryprocess.co.uk
RAS has specialists from a variety of backgrounds, enabling us to develop bespoke solutions to any risk problem. Our services span the breadth of risk management, from helping our clients to understand their risks through hazard identification and risk assessment, to helping them prevent, control and mitigate these risks according to the principles of ALARP and emergency response planning. www.ras.ltd.uk
See us at 1 stand M1
See us at stand F10
At CHEMUK 2019 Stand F10, HRS Heat Exchangers will showcase its SI Series of multitube heat exchangers, which includes a double tubeplate to aid leak detection and prevent cross-contamination between the service fluid and product.
Pulsar Process Measurement is a world leader in non-contacting level measurement with tens of thousands of installations worldwide. The success of the business has been built on reliable repeatable measurement systems that have made difficult or seemingly impossible measurements a reality.
Whether you are processing fine chemicals or treating complex waste streams, every part of the process needs to be reliable, and heat exchangers are no exception. From heating process materials to evaporation during waste treatment processes, HRS Heat Exchangers uses only the toughest materials – stainless steel, Teflon and PEEK – and the most robust designs.
RADAR and non-contacting ultrasonic measurement are complementary non-contacting technologies, measuring level by signal analysis but excelling in different situations. A major benefit to Pulsar customers is that they can choose between mmWAVE RADAR and dB ultrasonic measurement, without having to make any compromises in terms of functionality. Pulsar also offers customers a range of online and technical support, for more information visit our website: www.pulsar-pm.com
Also on display at the event will be HRS’ patented Unicus Series of scraped-surface heat exchangers. Able to deal with the most fouling substrates, they are gentle enough to maintain the quality of complex materials. Visitors to HRS’ stand can find out how this technology is being used in the company’s Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) waste management solution. www.hrs-heatexchangers.com
18
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| chemuk exhibitors |
See us at stand F30
See us at stand J7
OMEX Environmental Ltd are based in the UK and operate worldwide, providing biological and nutrient additives for the energy, water and transport sectors. Products include bioavailable liquid trace element solutions, enzymes, micronutrient blends to boost the availability of essential trace elements and a range of iron powders all used in the anaerobic process to help improve bacterial performance in the digestate and increase the methane content of biogas production. The OMEX support service includes a nutrient profiling service in their fully-equipped laboratory with analysis of plant influent, effluent and biomass, through which a nutrient solution will be recommended. OMEX Environmental Ltd also manufacture and supply a complete range of wastewater treatment solutions for anaerobic and aerobic systems as well as de-icers and concrete ad-mixtures.
Hosokawa Micron Ltd is at the forefront of processing innovation. Our extensive heritage in process technology makes us a renowned single source supply of particle and powder processing equipment, technologies, and services. As a member of the global Hosokawa Micron Group, we bring together the very best in powder processing technologies and advancement, technical processing expertise, and standard and bespoke equipment design, manufacture, and installation. Our market leading products and expertise is complemented by superior customer service, which brings everything together to give customers a competitive edge in their markets.
www.omex.com | environmental@omex.com | +44 (0)1553 770092
www.hosokawa.co.uk
See us at 0 stand G2
See us at stand F1
Hempel Metals are service orientated stockists and processors of Nickel Alloys, Stainless Steels and Titanium. With globally located stock tailored to the Chemical Processing, Oil and Gas and Aerospace industries. Through our network of service centres we manage the technical requirements of our customers. Hempel Firmus Metals are the contact for requirements in Sheet, Plate, Coil and Round Bar – Hempel Metals stand for quality, ingenuity and adaptability with a customer lead approach to special metals supply - We are always ready to assist in your next project! Telephone: 0044 (0)1924 488585 Email: ben.wood@hempel-metals.com Web: www.hempel-metals.com
RETSCH is the leading global solution provider for neutral-to-analysis sample preparation and characterisation of solids. Based on over a century of experience RETSCH develops size reduction and sieving equipment which is characterised by excellent performance, operating convenience, safety and a long lifetime. RETSCH’s philosophy is based on customer orientation and leading edge technology. This is reflected in instruments whose high-quality components are designed for perfect interaction. RETSCH products not only guarantee representative and reproducible results for grinding and particle analysis but also allow for easy and comfortable operation. www.retsch.com
See us at 0 stand K1
See us at 1 stand K1
Maelstrom is a leading supplier of high-performance fluid mixing, blending and dosing equipment for inline process intensification. Based in the UK’s North West region, we have been supplying advanced mixing solutions to a number of the world’s largest process companies for over 20 years. From simple, standalone laboratory mixers through to complex, integrated production system installations, Maelstrom offers proven performance using its patented technologies. At ChemUK 2019, Maelstrom will be showing a selection of its latest dispersion and emulsification equipment, together with an example system skid used for nanomaterial processing. Visit stand K10 to find out how Maelstrom can transform your mixing process. www.maelstrom-apt.com
Chemical Search International specialises exclusively in executive search, talent acquisition and professional career development services for the global chemicals and related sectors such as polymers, materials, natural resources and biosciences. We also own ChemExecSM | Executive Network, an exclusive online professional network dedicated to these same industries and which offers faster, simpler professional networking just when you need it. We have offices in London, New York and Singapore. Please contact us to discuss your company’s recruitment needs or to discuss your own personal career. www.chemicalsearch.co.uk
19
ChemiGuard® If you offload from this….
lo
(lɔ
No (Ch
Lo tha
Lo Ch
So
Un
Then you need some of these….. PRESSURISED
PUMPED
63
Th tra of im
Th as
Ch co m
Ch bu wh en
Ch in
ChemiGuard® Tanker Offloading Available for pressurised and pumped offload systems
Te
loss-of-containment in Chemical Engineering (lɔs əv kənteɪnmənt) or LOC
Noun (Chemical Engineering: Process safety)
Loss-of-containment happens when a fluid which is usually contained somewhere escapes from that place.
Loss of containment incidents are a common threat underlying operations across the Chemical Process Industry. Source –
Health & Safety Laboratory Loss of Containment Incident Analysis HSL/2003/07
Uncontrolled releases accounted for 88% of loss of containment incidents. 63.6% of all substances released during incidents were subject to the COMAH regulations. The cause of any incident or accident, including loss of containment, can usually be traced back to a failure of safety management. Analysis revealed that the vast majority of incidents (81%) were a result of the organisation failing to adequately plan and implement procedures for a variety of risk control systems. The loss of containment resulted in 12 fatalities and 379 injuries of which 76 were classed as major injuries and 100 as three day plus injuries under RIDDOR. Chem Resist believes that prevention is the key to minimise the threats that loss of containment pose; our ChemiGuard® range of products is designed specifically to manage loss of containment primarily in tanker offloading and dosing applications. ChemiGuard® offers a safe and effective way to operate when offloading chemicals into bulk storage and IBC’s etc. The many features include integral bunds & lockable doors which means any failures of valves, gaskets etc. would not pose a risk to the operators or environment. ChemiGuard® cabinets are made from UV stable material and are easily installed or integrated into existing systems.
Transfer is Temporary, Safety is Permanent All ChemiGuard® products can be COLOUR CODED as required e.g. to identify different liquid streams
ChemiGuard® - Enhancing your site safety Tel: +44 (0) 1924 499466 Email: chemiguard@chemresist.com www.chemresist.com
| chemuk exhibitors |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
See us at 1 stand H2
See us at stand F21
Busch Vacuum Pumps and Systems are one of the largest suppliers of vacuum solutions for the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. With thousands of vacuum systems in operation worldwide, Busch offers its customers a wide range of vacuum technologies for each application – from single vacuum pumps to full-scale systems.
Klinkau is a global leading manufacturer of polyolefin (plastic) filter elements designed for liquid/solid separation processes predominantly in the chemicals and pharmaceutical industries, food and minerals industries as well as municipal water and waste water treatment.
Busch offers solutions for all vacuum applications in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry, such as: Evaporation, Filtration, Crystallization, Absorption, Sublimation and Mixing. Busch (UK) Ltd also provides customers with advice and support, from selecting the pump, through to our 24/7 nationwide aftersales service.
The Klinkau Corporate Group is a medium-size company established in 1981 and headquartered in Marktoberdorf, Germany. Our customers consider us as problem solvers for their filtration processes. The Klinkau manufacturing facilities are located in Germany, Italy, Malaysia and USA. For more than 30 years, customers have been able to rely on Klinkau’s innovative technologies, high standards of quality and firstclass service through our worldwide sales network.
For more information visit www.busch.co.uk.
For more information visit klinkau.de
See us at 4 stand B2
See us at stand K5
About WES With over 25 years of experience, WES has established itself as the leading company specialising in the design, engineering and supply of chemical dosing systems and ancillary products and services. The range of services WES offers varies from a simple component through to the complete design, build and installation of bulk chemical dosing systems, including a wide range of readily available hire systems. The company’s innovative and flexible approach enables them to be highly responsive and reactive to their nation-wide customer requirements.
BASA is one of the most active technical adhesives and sealants associations in Europe, providing high value and contributing to business performance for its members. With membership increasing each year, we provide a mine of information and advice on the importance of regulations and standards for the adhesives and sealants industry in the UK and Ireland. This is underpinned by an extremely active technical and business programme and every year more than 600 staff from member companies participate in BASA activities and more than half the membership are involved with our working parties. Visit Stand K5 to talk about membership www.basa.uk.com
For further information, contact: WES Ltd., Precision House, Rankine Road, Basingstoke, RG24 8PP. Email info@wes.ltd.uk Web: https://www.wes.ltd.uk
See us at 0 stand K2
See us at stand H2
Adams LubeTech
Centralized Lubrication
Equipment
The company was founded by George Adams in 1942, who recognised a supply shortage in the local machine tool industry. In 1999 the Company became as Adams LubeTech Limited and also moved to its present site in the same year.
Francis Ward, based in Bradford West Yorkshire, design and manufacture rotationally moulded Drums and IBC,s, complimented with our range of metallic pressure discharge containers. Francis Wards products are reusable for up to 10 years depending on product type and chemical compatibility.
Today, Adams LubeTech has an unrivalled reputation as a manufacturer of single point ‘Oilers and Lubricators’, exporting to countries worldwide alongside expertise advice and comprehensive range of ‘Centralized Systems’ for all industrial applications.
The safe storage and transportation of chemicals in the industrial sector is an area in which Francis Ward has extensive experience. Francis Wards containers are performance tested and certified in accordance with UN regulations. Francis Ward is part of the Rotational Moulding Group Limited, one of the leading companies in the field of Rotational Moulding in the UK.
The Company is registered to quality management system BS EN ISO 9001.
www.francisward.com
www.adamslube.com
22
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| chemuk exhibitors |
See us at stand E15
See us at stand J4
Visit us on stand E15 where we will be showcasing our new range of self-priming polypropylene pumps, along with the very latest in energy efficient and heavy-duty seal-less pumps.
Founded in 1999, Lisam Systems is a global provider of Environmental, Health and Safety (EH&S) compliance management software solutions and services, operating from offices worldwide. By combining an easy-to-use, flexible technology built on the Microsoft .NET platform, with the latest regulatory content, Lisam brings innovative, affordable and timely solutions to solve EH&S challenges faced by manufacturers, distributors and users of chemical products. Today, more than 1000 clients in these industries rely on Lisam’s flagship software, ExESS®, to manage their compliant safety data sheets and labels, designed for all major commercial markets and available in more than 50 languages.
Crest Pumps has specialised in chemical resistant pumps since 1973. We take great pride in supplying outstanding service making it an easy choice to do business with us. Our UK manufacturing plant means we can supply you with any pump built to your exact specification without delay. With over 45 years’ experience, we make sure the right pump is fitted for every application to ensure years of trouble-free operation. info@crestpumps.co.uk | www.crestpumps.co.uk | 01425 627700
www.lisam.co.uk
See us at stand B10
See us at stand M2
UK Flowtechnik is an established distributor of specialist pumps, magnetic couplings, flowmeters and instrumentation designed to work with a variety of industries including the chemical, process and composite. It offers pumping and metering solutions for a wide range of viscosity, pressure and accuracy requirements. Fitted to OEM machines or for use in production, its range of products are well established and specified widely in many diverse challenging applications.
Promethean Particles develops and manufactures inorganic nanoparticle dispersions using a novel continuous-flow approach. Our patented reactor design uses hydrothermal (or solvothermal) synthesis with a production capacity up to 1000 tons a year; our full-scale system is the largest continuous-flow, multi-material nanoparticle production plant in the world. The versatility of our technology, coupled with our production scale, means our products are applicable to several markets. Our capabilities include metals (Cu, Ni, Ag), metal oxides (ZrO2, CeO2), and more complex materials such as metal organic frameworks (MOFs, e.g. ZIF-8, ZIF-67, CPO-27); these could be used for electronics, coatings or gasstorage applications. www.proparticles.co.uk
Our technical knowledge at a product and application level around pumping and metering viscous products is renowned within the industry. Come and find our range of flow meters, pumps, couplings and process measurement equipment on stand B10. www.ukflowtechnik.com
See us at stand M4
See us at 0 stand B2
We are the UK’s professional body for chemical scientists and bring together chemists from across the world. We provide our members with personalised support that spans their careers through our products and services. Our members benefit from: • professional recognition of their experience and expertise; • support tailored to their career stage; and • connections with our diverse international community. We help organisations to recruit and retain talented chemical scientists and to provide their employees with a fully supported route to professional recognition through our internationally recognised career development framework. For details contact membership@rsc.org or visit rsc.li/join
Edwards are a world leader in the design, technology and manufacture of (dry) vacuum pumps for process applications, tailoring solutions to our customers’ needs. For 100 years Edwards has been at the forefront of vacuum pump technology, making manufacturing cleaner, smarter, economical and environmentally friendly. Edwards’ chemical and industrial vacuum pumps are integral to manufacturing processes for an increasingly diverse range of industries. Their pioneering dry vacuum technology provides real cost benefits and environmentally friendly operations. Edwards’ combination of chemical applications expertise, product portfolio, engineering strength and global service presence puts them in a unique position to work with you to design the best solution for your chemical process. www.edwardsvacuum.com
23
| chemuk exhibitors |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
CHEMUK 2019 Exhibitors List: 2M Services
Chemicals Northwest
Grotech Production Ltd
Monarch Chemicals
Siris Environmental Ltd
ADT Flexibles
Chemie Solve Sourcing Ltd
HACH
NCEC (part of Ricardo)
Smartlift Bulk Packaging Ltd
AM Labels Ltd
Cod Beck Blenders Ltd
HIBISCUS PLC
NETZSCH Pumps
Speedy Services
AMCS Ltd
Cogent Skills
HRS Heat Exchangers Ltd
NITTEL UK
Surfachem
AVT PUMP
Crest Pumps Ltd
Hawkes Fire
Newson Gale Ltd
Suurmond Engineered Solutions
Actemium UK Ltd
DCM - Dyes Chemical Market
Hempel Firmus Metals Ltd
Northey Technologies Ltd
Tank News International
Action Sealtite Ltd
DESMI Ltd
Hosokawa Micron Ltd
OMEX Environmental Ltd
Tank Storage
Adams Lubetech Ltd
Dixon Europe
Huber Kältemaschinenbau AG
OQEMA Limited
Tapflo UK
Advanced Colours & Chemicals
Dr. Knoell Consult Ltd
Hydrotechnik UK
The Academy of Joint Integrity
AllValves Online
Dura-ID Solutions
IFC Inflow
Oranmore Environmental Services Ltd
Anton Paar (UK) Ltd
ERM
IPSL Repack Ltd
Arpadis UK
Edwards Vacuum
ISS Projects (UK) Ltd
Elaflex Ltd
Invest Tees Valley
Elisian
Julabo UK Ltd
Ashcroft Instruments Limited Assentech Sales Limited BASA - British Adhesives & Sealants Assoc BCMPA - British Contract Manufacturers and Packers Association BLH Nobel (VPG Systems UK) BTC Europe BakerCorp UK Bilfinger UK
Emerson
PMT (GB) Limited
KDC
Endress+Hauser Ltd
Katronic Technologies
Esseco UK Ltd
Kinder-Janes Engineering Ltd
FDL Packaging Group
Kindlow Safety Services
FLEXIM Instruments UK Ltd
Klinkau Filtration Systems
Falck Fire Services
Klüber Lubrication Great Britain Ltd
Fibrestar Drums Limited
LAUDA Technology Limited
Filtertechnik Ltd
Labtex Ltd
BioVale
Flexachem UK Ltd
Borregaard UK Ltd
Flexitallic UK Ltd
Buckley Industrial Limited
Flotech Performance Systems
Bulk Powder Terminals
Flowhire Ltd
Lankem Ltd Leada Engineering Libra Speciality Chemicals Lisam Systems Ltd
Busch (UK) Ltd
Flowquip Ltd
CALGAVIN Ltd
Francis Ward Ltd
CDR Pumps (UK) Ltd
Fullbrook Systems Ltd
CHEM RESIST GROUP LIMITED
GPE Scientific Limited
Cepac Ltd t/a Cepac Rawcliffe
GRUNDFOS Pumps Ltd
Chem Exec
Gericke Ltd
Chemical Industries Association
Glacier Energy Services
Maelstrom Advanced Process Technologies Ltd
Chemical Search International
Gower Chemicals Limited
Magritek UK
Litre Meter Loadtec Engineered Systems Ltd Lutz UK Ltd MCE ValvTechnologies Europe MHT Technology Ltd
The Chemical Industry Journal The Pump Company
PROSAFE Engineering PTFE Flex Ltd
The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Perry Process Equipment Ltd
Thinqk Pump Parts
Pirtek UK Ltd
Tomlinson Hall & Co. Ltd
Poulten Selfe & Lee Ltd
Tradebe Chemicals
Premier Control Technologies
UK Flowtechnik Ltd
Premier Tech Chronos
VEGA Controls Limited
ProMinent Fluid Controls (UK) Ltd
Vacuubrand GmbH + CO KG
Promethean Particles
Vacuum Process Solutions Ltd
Protego UK Ltd
Verder UK Ltd
Pulsar Process Measurement Ltd
WES Ltd
RAS Ltd RPC Group
Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Group
Rain for Rent International UK
Wiese Europe bvba
Ram Universal Ltd
Witton Chemical Company
Retsch UK
Witzenmann UK Limited
Rutpen Ltd
Workplace Equipment Store
SEEPEX UK Ltd
Yara UK Ltd
SILOTANK
ZOOK
SafeRack LLC
Zoedale Ltd
Scully UK Ltd
Zulu Joint Integrity Ltd
Sierra Instruments
abcr GmbH
Siga Filtration
sera ProDos UK Ltd
Delivering chemistry for a better life Ingredients trend leader > Personal Care & Cosmetics > Home, Industrial & Institutional Care > Pharmaceuticals & Nutraceuticals
www.surfachem.com | info@surfachem.com A 2M Holdings Ltd Company
24
s at u t e e M K CHEMU 2019 24 Stand K
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| chemuk exhibitors |
See us at stand M5
See us at stand B4
SEEPEX progressive cavity pumps and control systems are used in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries wherever low to highly viscous, aggressive or abrasive media must be conveyed accurately with low shear and minimum pulsation.
Zulu Joint Integrity Ltd is a specialist joint integrity management and training company with a strong track record of providing solutions to UK COMAH chemical assets. Support solutions including; • Design & execution of Joint Integrity procedures that comply with regulatory compliance, industry guidelines and best practice • Joint integrity training and competency assessment including BS EN 1591-4:2013, Energy Institute Guidelines, ASME PCC-1:2013 (APPENDIX A) and as of 2019, ECITB approved MJI10 training for those responsible for breaking containment and making bolted flanged joints Zulu’s services help obtain a safe, leak free start-up of plant, thus improving safety, quality and environmental standards. www.zulujointintegrity.co.uk
SEEPEX will showcase at CHEMUK 2019 their new BCFH Pump Range and Smart Dosing Pump. The BCFH range is EHEDG certified. The EHEDG Type EL Class 1 certification ensures residue-free cleaning at a lower temperature, with lower chemical concentration and shorter cleaning time than other cleaning-in-place (CIP) solutions. The Smart Dosing pump with integrated control offers metering accuracy of ±1% and complex dosing. The pump can be easily integrated into continuous or batch dosing systems. sales.uk@seepex.com | www.seepex.com
See us at stand L5
See us at stand D3
NETZSCH Pumps and Systems has been manufacturing positive displacement pumps for over six decades, specifically creating solutions for difficult processes. Our products are capable of handling everything from extremely accurate dosing through to high volume applications. Over the years we have supported a huge range of industries including Chemical, Ceramic, Paints and Coatings, Paper, Pharmaceutical and Construction, to mention just a few. Our highly trained staff not only supply and support equipment and spares, but can identify potential efficiency improvements on existing production lines and specify products for brand new and bespoke systems. www.netzsch.com
80 GHz radar level technology for liquids and solids is no newcomer: with over 100,000 units and counting in service world wide – it’s time to discover the real benefits it delivers. Their world leading level and pressure innovations measure liquids, solids and gases in Chemical manufacturing. Industrial instrumentation for level, interface, flow, density and pressure – an extensive range of technologies: Radar, Ultrasonic, Radiometric, Admittance, Pressure solutions, point level switches and controllers. Approvals: EX, SIL, Marine, Hygienic. Communications: Bluetooth, HART, Ethernet, Profibus, FF and Modbus. 5 day build-time and 3 year warranty, with experienced support, provides peace of mind. www.vega.com
ISSUE12
SUPPORTED BY
JULYAUGUST2018
SUPPORTED BY
Particle Counting in Liquids • Water, Chemicals & Corrosive Acids • 0.03µm to 150µm depending on model • High Detection Efficiency • In-Line or Batch Sampling • High maximum concentration limits • Simple to use • LCD Touch Panel Displays • PC data collection software available
10 years on... UK AND WORLD NEWS • SUPPLY CHAIN • big interview • bULK LIQUID STORAGE • INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY • LEGISLATION
UK AND WORLD NEWS • SUPPLY CHAIN • electric vehicles • big interview • periodic table • drug discovery
If you would like to feature in the next editon of Chemical Industry Journal contact: Helen Flintoff Business Development Manager
PMT (GB) Ltd. | Tel: +44 (0)1684 312950 | Fax:+44 (0)1684 312969 | email: info@pmtgb.com
Tel: 0191 5805990 email: helen.flintoff@distinctivegroup.co.uk
25
| chemuk 2019 |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Services for every Chemical Regulation If you want to bring a mixture on a market you may be in need of additional information.
AND WHAT INFORMATION IS THIS? You need to know the full composition of your mixture and derive the used volumes. The composition is needed, since you have to check with the chemical regulation in your target market, whether all substances are in line with the regulation, e.g. already listed in a local inventory or not. The volumes are required, since there may be different obligations depending on the total amount of substance used. However, many companies consider the full composition of their products as business confidential information.
HOW IS THE REQUIRED INFORMATION THEN PASSED DOWN IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN? By Dr. Thomas Berbner
Director Business Development Chemicals EMEA Knoell Germany GmbH
HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED IN CHEMICAL REGULATIONS? From my studies in biology with a special emphasis on aquatic toxicology I was always interested in the effect of chemical substances on aquatic organisms. From there my jobs finally brought me to environmental risk assessments and chemicals regulations.
WHAT IS THE BIG DIFFERENCE COMPARING CHEMICALS REGULATIONS TO BIOLOGICAL TESTING? Animal tests and alternative methods are the basis for the implementation of any chemical regulation. Test results are used by the regulations to determine hazards and risks. Tests provide a result; the regulations use and integrate them into a full picture that enables the determination whether the intended use of the substances pose risk to man and/or the environment.
HOW DOES KNOELL EXACTLY ACT IN THE FIELD OF CHEMICALS REGULATIONS? Our company has a very diverse structure of employees. knoell combines scientific knowledge from highly experienced colleagues, like (eco)toxicologists with the in-depth knowledge of our regulatory staff. Hence, we are able to provide the full range of getting a chemical, chemical product or article on the market. We accompany our clients during the setup of any registration strategy. If testing cannot be avoided, e.g. by using in-silico tools like QSARs, we also manage the testing phase by providing study monitoring, data gap analysis, technical writing, exposure assessments and subsequently the risk assessment, finally to prepare the required dossier for the authorities.
AND WHERE DO YOU PROVIDE SUCH SERVICES? We are serving all global markets. We have subsidiaries throughout Europe, the United States, China, Taiwan, Japan, Thailand and South Korea. Hence, we provide our services for every chemical regulation and any kind of use.
WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES TO GET A PRODUCT ON THE MARKET? Whereas it appears to be well defined how to act for chemical substances, it is getting more complicated when dealing with chemical mixtures or finished articles. Chemical substances are more or less well-defined materials (excluding UVCBs). For a substance you provide tests, you determine hazards and exposure and finally come to conclusions about potential risks.
The globally used standard communication tool is the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). SDS are used for substances and mixtures. The SDS serves the communication of hazards of the used products. Therefore, an SDS only covers the components of a mixture that contribute to the overall hazard. You will not find the full composition in there. To get the full composition of a mixture you need to get in touch with your supplier and ask either for the full composition or whether all components in the mixture fulfill the regulatory obligations in the target market. You may also involve a trustee in the communication. It gets the full composition from the supplier, checks the product for regulatory compliance in the target market and then reports the status to the client. knoell has a team solely serving the trustee function.
YOU WERE ALSO TALKING ABOUT FINISHED ARTICLES. WHAT IS THE PROBLEM THERE? Articles are different to substances and mixtures. They work by their design, surface and form, not through their chemical composition. An easy example is a cup. It is irrelevant whether it is made of metal, wood or china. However, it is necessary to have knowledge about the substances in an article, since they may pose a risk to man and/or the environment. You may imagine that it might not be very healthy to use a cup made of lead instead of stainless steel. Therefore, article producers need to know whether substances of concern are used in their raw materials. Further, there are additional regulations for specific product groups (e.g. in Europe the Toy Directive or the Directive on the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) in electronics equipment).
HOW WILL THE FUTURE LOOK LIKE FOR CHEMICAL REGULATIONS? Chemical regulations are known since the early 70’s. A milestone certainly was the implementation of the European Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 (REACH) in 2007. This set a new standard and several chemical regulations in other parts of the world were influenced by REACH. For example, you may check the current version of K-REACH in South Korea or the new KKDIK regulation in Turkey. In the United Nations “Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM)” many nations share their intentions for chemicals management systems. I am convinced that we will see more countries implementing such systems, since the protection of the environment and the human health is in my opinion also the key to sustainable economic success.
26
Solutions for Global Chemical Compliance Handling chemical products in a way that minimizes the risk to man and the environment is not an isolated local task. Companies selling their products internationally, will often face specific regulations for the safe use of chemicals in their target markets. Considerations need to take into account global initiatives and frame works like GHS, SAICM or TDG but also numerous country specific approaches for the risk management of chemical products. Knoell with its global network of affiliates and partners keeps track of the developments concerning global chemicals management and supports its clients with the most suitable strategy for their products and target markets. Our services include, but are not limited to: Strategic advice on how to comply with global regulatory duties Identification of components that require special attention due to their hazard and risk profile Complete registration services for EU, Switzerland, Turkey, China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, ASEAN countries, USA, Canada, Australia and others incl. local representation Complete Global Safety Data Sheet management
We have been an independent service provider for industrial chemicals, agrochemicals, biocides, veterinary medicine, medical devices, cosmetics and food contact materials since 1996 at sites within Europe, Asia and the USA. For further information visit www.knoell.com or call us. Dr. Knoell Consult Ltd. Dr. Iain A. MacKinnon Managing Director Tel +44 29 2034 9880 imacKinnon@knoell.com www.knoell.com
knoell Germany GmbH Dr. Thomas Berbner Regional Director Business Development EMEA - Industrial Chemicals Tel +49 621 718858-126 tberbner@knoell.com www.knoell.com
| cba |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
UK REACH – why the Government’s no deal proposals are unworkable Peter Newport
CBA believes the UK Government’s proposals for a UK version of REACH in the event of a No Deal exit from the EU are unworkable
EUROPEAN MARKET The chemical sector’s regulatory framework has a distinctive relationship with trade. Regulatory compliance is the key to market access. In this case, the European Union alone determines the nature and extent of the compliance required.
CBA has expressed its concern on behalf of the industry to the Environment Minister, Thérèse Coffey MP, that the Government’s intention to transpose the European Union’s (EU) REACH provisions into UK law in the event of a ‘No Deal’ Brexit is unworkable.
Compliance with EU requirements is non-negotiable. Failure to comply is a barrier to market access. Without market access there can be no trade.
CBA also believes the current proposals will damage the chemical supply sector and the many downstream UK manufacturing industries relying on chemicals for their products and processes.
The blanket transposition of EU REACH into UK law implies the need to create a database of registered chemicals similar to that already currently held by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).
In the absence of a Withdrawal Agreement, the only way these consequences can be avoided, in CBA’s view, is the negotiation of ‘Associate Membership’ of ECHA or an arrangement that guarantees continued regulatory compliance with the EU regime allowing continued access to European markets.
To achieve this objective requires access to the chemical testing data used to support the registration of substances under REACH.
CHEMICAL TESTING DATA
Based on the UK Government’s current proposals, the industry may well lose its EU markets. In 2017, 60% of the UK’s chemical exports went to the EU.
28
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| cba |
In meetings with Ministers and officials, CBA has pointed out that UK companies do not own or have access to this data. They pay a fee to its owner(s) for Letters of Access generating an electronic token that enables the company to rely on the data set held by ECHA. The terms of Letters of Access only provide REACH compliance for EU markets.
The registration fees and data-sharing contributions funding this process already total many millions of pounds. Yet, in recent meetings, Ministers appear indifferent to the further costs faced by chemical firms as a consequence of establishing UK REACH. Business cannot sustain the additional costs implicit in the Government’s proposals.
TIMESCALE
Testing data is owned by one or more companies – not by ECHA or UK businesses. Consortia of European companies own the vast majority of data. These facts render the Government’s current proposals unworkable. Whatever is contained in the final Withdrawal Agreement in respect of this issue, selling access to testing data to a third country remains a commercial decision for its current owner(s) and will not be governed by the EU’s data-sharing rules.
ANIMAL TESTING If existing test data is unavailable, or permission for its use cannot be secured, then a significant amount of animal testing would be required to recreate acceptable standards of data. Alternative forms of testing may be appropriate in some cases, but higher levels of animal testing should be anticipated.
COST The business cost of establishing UK REACH after a ‘No Deal’ Brexit is considerable. UK chemical firms now hold over 12,000 EU REACH registrations covering almost 6,000 chemical substances.
29
The Government has a set a two-year target for the UK REACH entity to acquire all the relevant testing data on UK products. This timescale is unrealistic. To put the UK Government’s two-year target into context, the EU’s REACH regime took ten years to implement – from 1 June 2008 when pre-registration began to the final REACH deadline by 1 June 2018.
WHAT IS A ‘NO DEAL’ BREXIT? ‘No Deal’ means what is says – that the UK has been unable to agree a Withdrawal Agreement with the European Union. This would mean no 21-month Transition Period. Businesses will have to respond immediately to this new situation and its resulting uncertainties. The UK is likely to revert immediately to World Trade Organisation rules as well as facing European Union’s external tariffs.
| news |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Nano-scale process may speed arrival of cheaper hi-tech products An inexpensive way to make products incorporating nanoparticles – such as high-performance energy devices or sophisticated diagnostic tests – has been developed by researchers. The process could speed the commercial development of devices, materials and technologies that exploit the physical properties of nanoparticles, which are thousands of times thinner than a human hair. The particles’ small size means they behave differently compared with conventional materials, and their unusual properties are inspiring research towards new applications. Engineers demonstrated their manufacturing technique, known as electrospinning, by building a fuel cell – a device that converts fuels into electrical power without combustion. Their device was produced featuring strands of nanoscale fibres incorporating nanoparticles on the surface. It offers a high contact area between the fuel cell components and the oxygen in the air, making it more efficient. Researchers at the University of Edinburgh and California Institute of Technology built their fuel cell using a nozzle-
free electrospinning device – a rotating drum in a bath of liquid under high voltage and temperature. Nanofibres are produced from the liquid on the surface of the drum, which are spun onto an adjacent hot surface. As the fibres cool to form a fuel cell component, nanocrystals emerge on their surface, creating a large surface area. Tests showed the nanofibre fuel cell performed better than conventional components. Such devices are very difficult to manufacture by other techniques, researchers say. The study, published in Nature Communications, was funded by the US Department of Energy. Dr Norbert Radacsi, of the University of Edinburgh’s School of Engineering, who led the study, said: “Our approach of electrospinning offers a quick and inexpensive way to form nanomaterials with high surface area. This could lead to products with improved performance, such as fuel cells, on an industrial scale.”
Sharp decline in order books and sales; margins turn negative The latest Supply Chain Trends Survey from the Chemical Business Association (CBA) reveals a sharp decline in both order books and sales with current and future sales margins turning negative. Employment levels remain in positive territory though at a lower level than the last survey. The CBA’s latest on-line Trends Survey was conducted during the two weeks, 5-16 November 2018, and is based on responses from 56 member companies.
ABOUT THE SURVEY CBA’s Supply Chain Trends Survey asks companies to provide information on order books, sales, sales margins, and employment, on a ‘better–worse–same’ basis. To measure short-term trends, the analysis ignores responses answering ‘same’ and focuses on the positive or negative balance provided by the difference between the ‘betterworse’ responses.
CURRENT ORDER BOOKS – SIGNIFICANT DECLINE Members are asked if their order books are better, worse, or the same than during the previous three months. The November survey shows a positive balance of +14%, a significant decline from the positive balance of +32% reported in June 2018.
SALES VOLUMES – CURRENT SALES DECLINE; FUTURE SALES LOSE MOMENTUM Respondents are asked to compare their current sales volumes with the preceding three months and indicate their expectations for the next three months. Current sales volumes show a reduced though still positive balance of +7% - sharply lower than three months ago (+27%). Future sales trends, whilst remaining positive, continue to lose momentum at +9% - a reduction from the +17% reported in the last survey.
SALES MARGINS – CURRENT AND FUTURE SALES MARGINS TURN NEGATIVE Companies are asked to compare their current sales margins with the preceding three months and forecast their trend over the coming three months. Current sales margins have moved into negative territory (-11%) compared with the +8% reported in the last survey. Respondents forecast sales margins will remain negative over the next three months generating a balance of -7%.
EMPLOYMENT – STILL POSITIVE, BUT WEAKER Member companies were asked if their employment levels would be higher, lower, or remain the same over the next three months. Trends for employment remain positive at +16%, but weaker than the +28% reported in June 2018.
30
Hazards29
HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARD DS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARD S HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA DS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA ARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS H HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARD In association with the Mary Kay O’Connor HAZARDS Process Safety Center HAZA S HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS ARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS H DS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA 22– 24 HAZARDS May 2019, Birmingham, UK HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARD Hazards 29 is IChemE’s annual process safety conference,HAZARDS the leading event ofHAZARDS its kind in Europe. HAZARDS HAZA DS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS It will share good practice, latest developments and lessons learned in process safety, promoting safer working HAZARD HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS practices and helping to make good practice common practice. S HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA Hazards 29 will every major aspect of process safetyHAZARDS and bring together hundreds of practitioners from around HAZA DS HAZARDS cover HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS the globe. It is the perfect place to learn from others’ experiences, keep up-to-date with good process safety practice, ARDSandHAZARDS HAZARDS network with the international process HAZARDS safety community. HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS H HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARD Key features S HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA Around 100 oral presentations and posters exhibition of process safety related products ARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS Trade HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS H from industry practitioners, researchers and services RDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HA and regulators HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS Social and networking opportunities Invited plenary speakers from industry S HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA Workshop topics HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZAR Find out more and register at www.icheme.org/hazards29 DS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARD RDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HA S HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA DS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA ARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS H DS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARD DS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARD S HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA DS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA ARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS H HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARD ARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS H S HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZAR Sponsorship and exhibition packages are available now DS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZA HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARD RDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HAZARDS HA ■■
■■
■■ ■■
IChe
m
E
y
re
Safet
t
■■
Ce
n
ISC
| big interview |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Process Safety Management
- rethinking leadership In this issue of the Chemical Industry Journal, we speak to Richard Roff and Neil Smith about their work with the Process Safety Management (PSM) Competence Programme Board. We take a look at the programmes they’ve developed, the progress that’s been made to date, and hear why our industry leaders should reflect on their responsibilities in 2019.
THE BACKGROUND OF THE BOARD The PSM Competence Programme Board was founded to support high hazard industries in managing major incident risks better through improved staff competence. Publishing its first UK Strategy for Competence in Process Safety Management in 2012, the board has gone on to develop accompanying training programmes and to refine this strategy. The board is supported by Cogent Skills which has charitable status and is a not-for-profit organisation having developed out of the Sector Skills Council, originally set up and funded by Government. Profits are reinvested into the organisation to ensure it can continue to offer support and maintain the quality of its programmes.
INDUSTRY EXPERTISE Made up of senior representatives from industry, regulators, trade unions, stakeholder bodies and training organisations, the board incorporates insights from a broad range of organisations working in the hazardous industries. Both Richard and Neil sit on the board. Richard, a Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, chairs the board and brings to the role years of experience
of process safety management working in hazardous industries including chemicals and steel. In his day job as Group Process Safety Manager at Costain Group PLC, Richard advises on the implementation of process safety techniques across all of the group’s businesses. He came on-board as Chair of the PSM Competence Programme Board in 2015. With a background as an aircraft engineer in the Royal Navy, Neil’s served in locations as diverse as the Arctic Circle and the Gulf, so it’s fair to say he’s no stranger to hazardous situations. All of which has provided him with a robust understanding of effective safety management and an aptitude for seeing when these processes are missing. He’s since built up over two decades of experience developing, leading and delivering skills and competence development programmes. Now as Head of Workforce Development at Cogent Skills, Neil provides ongoing support to the board to keep the momentum going.
PROCESS SAFETY AT THE HEART Together Richard, Neil and their fellow board members work to raise awareness of the importance of process safety management and develop accompanying training programmes aimed at all levels of an organisation. They are, as Richard observes, “the custodians of standards for training and competence in process safety management.” The programmes they offer include: Process Safety Leadership Designed for senior executives, who are responsible for developing a strong process safety culture within their organisation, this one-day course covers topics including the key elements of Process Safety Management Systems, the business case for establishing such systems and how to effectively engage your workforce in establishing a safety
32
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| big interview |
conscious culture. It is followed up within 6 months with a review, for participants to demonstrate progress against their personal action plans, identified during the training. Process Safety Management Foundations A two-day course designed for managers, supervisors, designers, safety personnel, operational and senior contract employees to develop a detailed understanding of their role in delivering effective process safety management. This includes an online assessment to check the retention of knowledge and understanding. Process Safety Management Operations Designed to be delivered in-house by your own staff, this flexible course provides an understanding of the key concepts of process safety, which can be delivered over two full days or six shorter sessions, with modular online assessments.
2019 – THE CHALLENGES AHEAD Looking forward, Richard and Neil are adamant that leaders in all industries need to take stock of their responsibilities. “With the Health and Safety Executive placing an increasing emphasis on the role of business leaders in creating a safety-conscious culture and safe working practices, it’s all the more important for senior executives to get it right,” explains Neil. “I visit companies to talk about process safety and competence management on a regular basis and I very often hear well-meaning phrases about being committed to zero harm – but there needs to be a deeper understanding and knowledge of what people are committing to, particularly at the senior level, where the culture of their organisation is set.”
LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES
BUILDING A SAFETY CONSCIOUS CULTURE Reflecting on these programmes Richard observes, “in general terms, our programme is not about technical skills, it’s about the concepts of managing process safety. Our three standards for leaders, managers and operators have been written by the same group of industry professionals, so a common thread runs through all of them and they use a common language. “Employing all three of the programmes in your organisation will be most effective, as it builds a common understanding and an improved process safety culture throughout the organisation and this is just what I’ve aimed to do at Costain. Choosing a single part may not be so wise as that common language would be missing and it is vital for creating the right culture and ensuring safe operations.”
THE PROGRESS MADE TO DATE Companies which have benefitted from this training include National Grid, Unilever, GSK, Tata Steel, Centrica and Johnson Matthey, to name but a few. In fact, in just five years, around 12,000 people have completed one or other of these programmes. Although initially founded to raise awareness of process safety management in high hazard industries, such as the chemical and petrochemical industries, the PSM Competence Programme Board is now reaching out to other industries, given that the principles of process safety can benefit all workplaces, making them safer. Each programme can be tailored to meet the specific challenges of each participating organisation, whether they are from a chemical, construction, fast moving consumer goods or engineering background, for instance, whilst meeting the strict criteria of the standards.
TRANSFERABILITY OF THE CONCEPTS
“Leaders of industry need to think about what major hazard leadership really means,” explains Neil. “It’s not simply about attending training themselves, it’s about making sure the whole workforce understands its role in controlling major accident hazards; knowing who knows what in their organisation and what is important. “It’s not just a personal commitment but about enabling the whole organisation to support that statement. This can only happen if information about major hazards is shared at all levels of an organisation and if controls are in place, along with the methods needed to sustain that control. “it isn’t uncommon for senior leaders to turnover quite rapidly, so it’s important that everyone from junior operatives to middle managers take ownership of their part in process safety. Leaders also need to be aware of their responsibilities with regard to contractors, as so many industries are reliant on contractors to supplement their operational and maintenance staff. “Leaders should repeatedly ask how competent is their whole organisation and keep training at the top of their agenda. This would help give assurance that the business will be resilient in the face of a hazardous incident, even if there have been changes in the executive team. “We know we are not the only source of education and training – the most important thing is that businesses are getting engaged and thinking about their responsibilities with regard to process safety management competence.”
TAKE AN ACTIVE PART “The success of the programme is down to the dedication of the stakeholders who participate in the board,” explains Richard, “with representatives from across the hazardous industries taking part.
“Although we will always retain a focus on those industry sectors that are under the spotlight of ‘major accident hazards’,” explains Richard, “we’re committed to sharing best practice with other industry sectors, there should be no barriers to other sectors who want to learn.
“We want to maintain the board as a living breathing entity and we are always in search of new members to engage with us. We meet three times a year with a corresponding number of conferences calls. We want more input from industry, so we can continue to provide industry with what it needs.
“The concepts of process safety are transferable from one sector to another, helping to build an awareness of the impact of a business’s operations on people, the environment and ensuring safe working.
“We are looking for proactive people who are committed to making a difference and who are not afraid to speak their mind, so do get in touch. You can reach us via the Cogent Skills website.”
“In my own work at Costain, I’ve found the principles of process safety, can be applied across all aspects of our operations.”
www.cogentskills.com
33
| advertorial |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Take control of your regulatory compliance with Yordas Hive Developed to meet growing demand for accurate, up-to date regulatory data on chemicals globally, Yordas Hive works with your data to bring you exactly the information that you need to stay compliant, and helps save valuable time. The wealth of accurate regulatory information, actively maintained by the experts at Yordas Group, works seamlessly with your own information to provide a powerful compliance solution. The software offers a range of packages to meet all business requirements, whether you are looking for a smart software reference tool or compliance management solution, Yordas Hive can work for you and your business.
MANAGING COMPLIANCE EFFICIENTLY WITH YORDAS HIVE Leading UK retailer, WHSmith utilised Yordas Hive to manage the complex process of regulating the chemicals in their products. With a large product portfolio and prominent market presence, it is important that our client understands the requirements and implications of the ever changing legal compliance landscape. A crucial aspect of maintaining and achieving compliance is current knowledge of changes to legislation. Yordas Hive provided WHS with the ability to upload product information directly into the software, allowing them to
fully integrate their chemical composition and formulation data with the regulatory information held within the comprehensive database. The structured and live solution enables them to see a full list of substances within their products, providing a complete chemicals management system.
AUTOMATED REGULATORY STATUS CHECKS SAVE TIME WHS created tailored email alerts for each user in their team, giving them the ability to monitor the status of their products and formulations, as well as being notified when changes are made to regulations globally, enabling them to take immediate action, whether it be substitution, reformulation or relabelling. The software’s ability to manage complex products provides a particularly useful feature for WHS, who often deal with various types of multi-packs containing the same ingredients. Yordas Hive Prime Edition allows the customer to immediately assign the impact of a regulatory change to all relevant products on the shelf. Martin Annis, WHS, discusses the benefits of Yordas Hive: “Yordas Hive gives us the confidence that in an ever changing legal chemical landscape we are kept informed of all the changes which specifically affect our products. This allows us to communicate any required changes to our suppliers quickly rather than spending time looking for changes in legislation and manually checking product specific BOM/BOS and SDS’s.”
“Yordas Hive gives us the confidence that in an ever changing legal chemical landscape we are kept informed of all the changes which specifically affect our products. This allows us to communicate any required changes to our suppliers quickly rather than spending time looking for changes in legislation and manually checking product specific BOM/BOS and SDS’s.” 34
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| advertorial |
YORDAS HIVE HELPS IDENTIFY SUBSTANCE RELEVANCE FOR LEADING HOME IMPROVEMENT COMPANY Yordas Group, creators of Yordas Hive, assisted Kingfisher plc in developing a chemical strategy allowing them to anticipate future regulatory action and meet sustainability commitments in complex, international supply chains. To meet this sustainable growth plan goal, Kingfisher authored a Chemicals Action List (CAL) within which a list of chemicals of concern were identified. This has been used to create product specifications where restrictions apply within its Group QA function and are applied to products managed within its Group purchasing teams that source products for its trading brands.
a suspected or known hazard concern. A new Chemicals of Concern (COC) list was created from the Watch List by screening each substance entry against a set of priority criteria agreed with Kingfisher, using the information in Yordas Hive’s Substance Database.
To assist Kingfisher in implementing its chemicals strategy, Yordas Group created a new CAL to ensure the list of chemicals was complete and up-to-date. In order to develop the knowledge base relating to Kingfisher’s chemicals of concern, each substance in the CAL was then mapped against the following parameters:
This early warning system allows Kingfisher to develop a regulatory roadmap and anticipate future regulatory action with a view to safeguarding their future business, as well as meet its strong commitment to protect human health and the environment beyond the legal requirements of regulatory compliance.
Level of regulation (e.g. if the substance use is either prohibited/restricted, declarable, or proposed) Scope of regulatory requirement (e.g. if the substance is regulated in substances / mixtures, articles or both) Regulated product type (e.g. toys, textiles, all consumer articles) Relevance for Kingfisher products identified via Yordas Hive’s substance use and application information, based on the likelihood of a substance being found in their product inventories
Yordas Hive offers a unique package of in-depth expertise, high quality current data and intuitive software features. It supports customers to comply with chemical regulations and anticipate future business risks.
CONTACT For further details on how Yordas Hive could benefit your business contact a member of the Hive team on +44 (0)1524 594155 or email hive@yordasgroup.com. www.yordasgroup.com/hive
For ease of use and transparency, the CAL was organised into a Black List of prohibited and restricted substances, a Jan 19 CIJ half page landscape.pdf 19/12/2018 15:03:20 Grey List of1 declarable and controlled substances and Watch List of substances either proposed for regulation or with
Your Experts. Your Partners.
C
M
Y
CM
MY
Yordas Group Leading provider of scientific, environmental, human health, global regulatory and sustainability consulting services
• Supply Chain Compliance • Research, Investigation and Analysis • Health and Safety Services • Environmental Services • Sustainability and Product Stewardship
CY
CMY
K
www.yordasgroup.com
Delivering innovative solutions for businesses, industry and governments in:
+44 (0)1524 510278
35
info@yordasgroup.com
| solvents industry association |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
It’s been a busy 2018 for the Solvents Industry Association! The Solvents Industry Association staged their 32nd Annual General Meeting on Thursday 11th October 2018. Delegates and guests from 25 companies attended the event at Mottram Hall in Cheshire, which included topical industry presentations from Cefic, International eChem, Hunton Woods and The European Solvents Industry Group. SIA Chairman Mark Brunt commenced proceedings with an update of SIA activities over the previous 12 months, followed by Dr. Rob Oades, Chair of the SIA Technical Committee presenting the 2017-18 technical work programme and a preview of forthcoming SIA projects for 2018-19. In line with the theme of the work of the SIA, Cornelia Tietz, Secretary General of the European Solvents Industry Group (ESIG), then presented an update of solvent industry activities on a European level over the past 12 months and invited applications for the new ESIG Solvents Award www.esig.org/solventsaward2019. Digital Forensic Investigation Specialist Dr. Paul Hunton from Hunton Woods Limited gave a thought-provoking presentation on the increasing threat of cyber crime in the working environment, as well as the risk to individuals of becoming a victim of credit card and online fraud. In the final session of the afternoon, the debate continued with a strong Brexit-related theme. Longstanding partner of the SIA, Paul Hodges, Chairman of International eChem and ‘Ready for Brexit’, offered an informative view on what UK companies should be doing to prepare for the onset of Brexit in March 2019.
Paul Hodges addresses delegates at the SIA Annual General Meeting
Marco Mensink, Director General of Cefic
all parties. The event drew to a close with Marco and Paul hosting a question and answer session from the floor. The Solvents Industry Association would like to thank all of the speakers for what made an interesting and informative session. The evening dinner was preceded by presentations of the Annual SIA Golf Trophy to Philip Robinson of Caldic UK, and the Gerald Soane Award for outstanding contribution to Health & Safety to Karl Shone of Brenntag. For further information on the SIA, please contact Andrew Norman, General Secretary www.solvents.org.uk/ contact-us/
Marco Mensink, Secretary General of the European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic) rounded off proceedings with a unique European standpoint on what still needed to be done to achieve a Brexit deal which is acceptable for
Karl Shone of Brenntag receives top SIA Safety Award Karl Shone, Technical Development Manager at Brenntag UK, was the worthy recipient of the prestigious Gerald Soane Award at the SIA Annual General Meeting on 11th October. Awarded in recognition of services to the Association and the wider solvents industry relating to Health, Safety and the Environment, Karl receives the Award for a second time and is a result of his tireless commitment to the SIA Technical Committee and in particular his recent work in the development of the newly launched ‘Solvents and their Applications’ course. Karl said, ‘It is an honour to receive the Gerald Soane award for the second time. Considering the relatively small size of the Association, we achieve a huge amount for our industry in striving for continuous improvement and Best Practice and to educate users in the safe and responsible use of our products. I am delighted that my work has been recognised, and I would like to thank the SIA Executive Committee for nominating me.’ The SIA would like to congratulate Karl on this well-deserved achievement.
36
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| solvents industry association |
SIA commences filming of ‘Safe Handling of Solvents’ re-shoot The SIA is currently in the process of re-shooting footage in preparation for the re-release of the safety film, ‘Safe Handling of Solvents’ and has recently commenced filming at two of their Members’ sites in the UK and Belgium. First released in 2006, the objective of this new SIA project is to produce an updated version of the existing film to incorporate changes to procedures, legislation and labelling. SIA General Secretary, Andrew Norman said, ‘Although the majority of the film remains very relevant, we have recognised that a number of aspects are in need of an update. The film is integral to the SIA training programme and the revised production will offer more accurate guidance for our delegates and solvents end-users’. Shot on location over several days at a refinery site in Harwich, UK, and a storage and distribution centre in Antwerp, Belgium, it is anticipated that the final production will be released in early 2019.
The SIA raises £1,000 for Children’s Charity Brainwave The fundraising raffle which took place at the Solvents Industry Association’s Annual General Meeting at Mottram Hall in October has raised £1,000 for the Children’s Charity, Brainwave. With bases in Bridgwater, Witham and Warrington and satellite clinics in London and Scotland, Brainwave is a charity that exists to help children with disabilities and additional needs to achieve greater independence by aiming to improve mobility, communication skills and learning potential through a range of educational and physical therapies. Andrew Norman, SIA General Secretary, said, ‘The total raised has equalled our record sum for an SIA event. Having met with the speech and language therapists at Brainwave in Warrington, it is clear that children with disabilities can be offered the hope of full and happy lives through the intensive therapy provided and the nonverbal communication techniques used at these excellent centres. We are delighted that the money is going to such a worthy cause’. Many thanks go to Alcohols Limited, Hayman Group and to Mottram Hall for generously donating prizes for the event. For further information on Brainwave, visit the website www.brainwave.org.uk
SIA launches new Solvents Applications Training Course The Solvents Industry Association is proud to announce the launch of the latest addition to their training course programme – ‘Solvents and their Applications’. Designed to follow on from their hugely successful ‘An Introduction to the Solvents Industry’ course, this latest offering is aimed at those who have attended the first course and would like to learn more, or anyone who has been in the industry for some time and wishes to enhance their knowledge of the industries where solvents are used and how they are vital to today’s society. The first of these one-day courses took place at the Birmingham Conference and Events Centre (BCEC) on Wednesday 14th November, with further courses planned in 2019, the first of which will be on Tuesday 12th February at BCEC. If you would like to attend or require further details, please contact Andrew Norman, SIA General Secretary, via the website at www.solvents.org.uk
37
Commit to the safety of your workforce in 2019 LEADERSHIP
is becoming increasingly important in 2019 “Effective health and safety performance comes from the top; members of the board have both collective and individual responsibility for health and safety� - Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
Cogent Skills and the Process Safety Management Competence Programme Board are raising awareness and commitment in process safety leadership through the adoption of the Process Safety Management programme The programme is based on industry developed standards that are recognised by the Health and Safety Executive and can be adapted to take account of your own internal hazards Some of the courses available in the programme are
Process Safety Leadership for Senior Executives
01325 740900
industry@ cogentskills.com
Process Safety Management Foundations
www.cogentskills .com
Key Elements of Process Safety Management Systems
Over 11,500 delegates have taken part in the Process Safety Management Competence programme
and are adopting these standards in their organisations
Now is the time to be planning essential training requirements for 2019 that comply with regulatory requirements The development of the industry training standards for process safety in 2011 provided the opportunity for the Process Safety Management Competence Programme Board and Cogent Skills to develop a suite of courses that allowed the Process Safety Management standards to be rolled out in High Hazard companies through a top down approach; starting at boardroom level and all the way through to operators. Richard Roff, Chair of the Process Safety Management Competence Programme Board said “the vision of the PSM Competence Programme Board is that people understand what might happen, understand their part in preventing catastrophic incidents through education, competence and knowledge. The underlying principles of process safety can be applied to the management of hazards and risks in many sectors, and in companies of all sizes. Businesses need to understand that a catastrophic event is possible, to understand what preventative processes they have in place and whether those measures are working”. Process Safety Leadership for Senior Executives course based on the standards was launched in 2011, followed by Process Safety Management Foundations in 2012 for operational managers and supervisors, and Process Safety Management for Operations in 2013 for front line operators and maintenance personnel. The purpose of these standards is to provide a clear knowledge and understanding of the principles of process safety management across an organisation, and help organisations to develop and maintain a strong process safety culture. Leadership is becoming increasingly important within industry, and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are keen to improve this in 2019. They want to see commitment to the delivery of training and coaching for board members and managers in process safety. The HSE state that it is essential that the momentum on improving competence in process safety management and leadership is maintained throughout the sector in order to ensure those involved in managing major hazard risks gain and maintain the knowledge and skills essential to avoid a major accident. They have recognised that the adoption of this standards-based approach can help companies achieve and demonstrate effective process safety management.
Over 11,500 delegates have now taken part in the Process Safety Management Competence Programme A milestone like this demonstrates the importance of senior leaders recognising their influence on the safe operation of hazardous processes worldwide. Demonstrating leadership, involving the workforce and building competence contributes substantially to the development and the rigorous management of a workplace health and safety and process safety culture. This training programme has been delivered worldwide and continues to progress within major hazard industries. Tony Johnson, Production Support Manager, Huntsman Polyurethanes (UK) said “before starting the PSM training, the companies focus was on the shift from personal safety to process safety. Following the training, we have improved our process safety culture and performance through enhancing personal safety with process safety. Cogent played a central role throughout, and the fact the programme is developed by peer companies is very valuable. The participants noted it was the most relevant training they had ever been on”. It is easy to see the improvements in an organisations understanding of Process Safety that start with the PSM training delivered in the boardroom and rolled out enterprise-wide. Reported benefits include increased near miss reporting, reductions in minor incidents of loss of containment, reductions in working days lost due to workplace injury and improved process safety communication. The emphasis on improving process safety culture also sets the suite of process safety courses apart from more traditional courses that deliver a heavier technical focus, and the training course suite is the only one to be underpinned by Training Standards approved by the UK’s Process Safety Management Competence Programme Board. Now a barometer of competence in the major hazard industries, and described by the HSE as “best in class”, the Competent Authority will look favourably on organisations during routine inspections, if employers can evidence such training taking place. Neil Smith, Head of Workforce Development at Cogent Skills says, “It has been great to see participating employers reporting that their number of small-scale incidents has halved and this is particularly significant given the pattern that has emerged historically of all small incidents being the precursors to more serious incidents. Previously industry training tended to focus on the technical aspects of a job and not set these in the context of process safety. Now there is a much greater understanding of the efficacy of process safety, of what processes should be in place and why”. If you would like to talk more about your training requirements in 2019, contact Cogent Skills on 01325 740900 or email industry@cogentskills.com
| advertorial |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) is celebrating ten years of its flagship Fundamentals of Process Safety training course By Robin Turney
CEng FIChemE Professional Process Safety Engineer
Fundamentals of Process Safety is an intense, five-day training course and its aim is to help give all those working within the process industries a better understanding of the key principles of process safety and its management. Having been presented across the world, training hundreds of delegates, its core belief is that it is contributing towards producing safer working environments and lessening the likelihood of future incidents. One of the originators of the course, Robin Turney CEng FIChemE, discusses the incident that triggered the development of the course and how it came together: Following the explosion at the Texas City refinery in 2005 which resulted in 15 deaths and 170 injuries, BP established an independent panel to review process safety at its US refinery operations, the Baker Panel. One of the panel’s ten recommendations related to the understanding of PSM:
RECOMMENDATION # 3: Process Safety Knowledge and Expertise: BP should devise and implement a system to ensure that its executive management and all refinery personnel including managers, supervisors and contractors, possess an appropriate level of process knowledge and expertise. The requirement for a sound understanding of Process Safety is not restricted to BP and in 2007 IChemE’s Safety & Loss Prevention Special Interest Group established a small working group to review the Institution’s training portfolio, paying attention to the above findings. We identified courses, offered by IChemE and others, covering specific process safety elements. Attending some of these courses would go a long way towards providing a broad understanding of process safety management. However, the courses would inevitably overlap and it was unlikely a non-process safety specialist would be able to attend more than one or two courses. This thinking led the Institution to develop a new course ‘Fundamentals of Process Safety’. Whist initially aimed at chemical engineers it was recognised that success in process safety requires input from scientists and engineers from many different disciplines, all of whom need to appreciate the basic principles and how their contribution interacts with that of others. The concept was shared with the Health & Safety Executive who agreed on the need and offered technical support in course development. A working party of Institution members was then formed with representatives from the
following organizations; HSE, BP, Yule Cato, Ineos, GSK, Cambridge University and IChemE. I acted as chair of the working party. After agreeing the course aims and learning outcomes, which remain largely unchanged today, we agreed to limit the course’s duration to one week, enabling as many delegates to attend as possible. Anything less than five days would not give us adequate time to cover the required syllabus. It was considered important to provide a basic understanding of technical aspects of process safety, including ways in which the engineers’ scientific and engineering training could be applied to process safety. It was however recognized that such an understanding would, by itself be insufficient to ensure that the knowledge was applied. It needed to be accompanied by an understanding that most accidents are not attributable to engineers or others who are ‘bad guys’, but by those who fail to apply the necessary diligence and thought to their actions. The best way of demonstrating this was seen to be through the detailed discussion of case studies. Those used were carefully selected to demonstrate the catastrophic consequences which can arise from failings in process safety, the different failure mechanisms involved, the importance of multiple layers of protection, interdependence and the reliance on the contribution of many people in achieving safe operations. This approach was used successfully by Trevor Kletz and was helped by the extensive library of material available from the Loss Prevention Bulletin as well as detailed material on the Texas City explosion which was made available to the Institution by BP. We also decided that some form of assessment was important and included an end-of-course exam of approximately one-hour duration in the course. Whilst the exam provides an important baseline, process safety is essentially a practical topic and its important that delegates continue to receive appropriate support and mentoring after the course, including if possible, an assignment. The pilot course took place in October 2008. The course was a success and the feedback we received from delegates helped us further improve the course, simplifying some modules and expanding others. I strongly believe that by attending the Fundamentals of Process Safety training course, together with effective PSM systems, has helped reduce the likelihood of further incidents. Ten years on, the growth of the course both in the UK and internationally, as well as the feedback from attendees, more than justifies the effort invested.
40
Fundamentals of Process Safety 4–8 March 2019, Manchester, UK 24–28 June 2019, Edinburgh, UK
IChemE’s flagshipFull process safety explores the key principles of process safety and its management. details andcourse registration
www.icheme.org/process-safety-uk Essential for anyone who is involved in the design, modification, operation and maintenance of a major hazard or process plant, or those who want to gain a thorough understanding of process safety.
The course references the six functional safety areas of IChemE’s process safety framework: knowledge and competence, engineering and design, systems and procedures, assurance, human factors and culture. It features a mix of interactive exercises and workshops, case studies and theory covering the core areas of a process safety framework.
Full details and registration www.icheme.org/process-safety-uk This course can also be run in-house, email courses@icheme.org to request a quotation. IChe
m
t
y
re
E
Safet
n Ce
ISC
| nepic |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Chemical-processing industry responds to increasing cyber security threat In the BBC’s recent drama series, McMafia, a hacker accessed files and take control of Mumbai Port’s IT network through a vending machine with poor security credentials. At first glance, this may appear implausible, but the threat to critical infrastructure is very real. As more devices are connected the ability to compromise a corporate network through an unpatched IoT connected device poses a real threat. It is predicted that there will be 20.4 billion connected devices in existence by the end of 2020. It’s evident that connected devices will continue to increase, posing many benefits, but also presenting growing security risk. As networks become more dynamic and continue to grow, it gets harder to identify and manage all the devices connected to them. Unfortunately, critical infrastructure such as the Mumbai port shown in McMafia is particularly at risk. Some concerning examples of similar compromises include multiple water supply plants hacked between 2011 and 2016, and the US power grid that was infiltrated 17 times in just 2 years. But perhaps the most worrying of all occurred in 2016 when a nuclear plant was hacked. The 4th Industrial Revolution represents an extraordinary growth opportunity for manufacturing in general, however, by its very nature brings with it increased risk. A recent report highlighted that almost 50 per cent of manufacturers have fallen victim to cyber security, with a quarter suffering some financial loss or disruption. Manufacturing is now the third most targeted sector for attack behind Government systems and finance. However, unlike the connected device examples above, much of this
vulnerability arises from industrial systems installed on plants that have built up and been modified over several years and, in some cases, decades. Whilst there is no change to the data collected, collated and used, the data management systems differ, resulting in an integration challenge to produce real time, meaningful information whilst protecting the asset.
NOTABLE INDUSTRIAL & AUTOMATION CONTROL SYSTEMS CYBER SECURITY TRENDS Looking beyond the headline-grabbing cyber security incidents of recent years, threat intelligence gathered from the National Cyber Security Centre and global chemical companies, along with the insights and examples by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), has exposed key Industrial & Automation Control Systems (IACS) cyber-security threats including Watering Hole; Triton, WannaCry, State-sponsored attacks and of cause, human error. A recent watering hole example occurred on a COMAH site following ‘spear-phishing’ email sent from a supplier’s system and contained Malware that gave the attacker command and control of a corporate desktop PC. The attacker then spread laterally across the network, securing access and acquiring information and knowledge needed to penetrate deeper into the control system. In this instance, the attacker intercepted and modified MODBUS over TCP/ IP communications between the tank farm PLC and DCS and overrode the safety instrumented system (SIS) that resulted in material being covertly pumped to overfill the jetty tank. In 2017 a malicious cyber-attack was carried-out on a petrochemical plant in Saudi Arabia that resulted in the attackers gaining control over a safety system that was critical in defending against catastrophic events. Malicious software, dubbed Triton, allowed the hackers to manipulate
42
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| nepic |
HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE RESPONSE
“While ransomware cyber-attacks continued to make the headlines, accidental breaches caused by employee error or networkbreaches prompted by third party suppliers continue to be a major threat to the effectiveness of IACS cyber security within the chemical-processing industries.” the devices’ memory and run unauthorised programs on the system by leveraging the previously unknown bug. Another example in 2017, saw WannaCry hit the headlines when attackers held the NHS to ransom for its patient data, causing outrage and chaos in equal measure. The WannaCry cyber-attack had potentially serious implications for the NHS and its ability to provide care to patients. It was a relatively unsophisticated attack and could have been prevented had basic IT security best practice been followed. In recent years allegations of state-sponsored cyber-attacks have occurred within the Middle East region with probably the Saudi Aramco attack being the most well-known. The Saudi Aramco cyber-attack was carried-out in 2012 using a virus known as Shamoon. The virus disrupted computers by overwriting the master boot record, making it impossible for them to start up. While ransomware cyber-attacks continued to make the headlines, accidental breaches caused by employee error or network-breaches prompted by third party suppliers continue to be a major threat to the effectiveness of IACS cyber security within the chemical-processing industries. One chemical-processing company – with sites across the globe – came up against a major failure that would have impacted 80 servers and 200 database systems following an accidental incident that occurred as two of its plants were in the middle of a turnaround. An incident was raised with a vendor regarding unsupported hardware and while the vendor supplied replacement hardware, they also provided incorrect procedures for its installation. This in-turn caused a major hardware failure and data corruption and although a disaster recovery was implemented, this was further hindered with issues with backups. The complete loss of plant functionality was avoided in the main through effective communication and restoration for key systems taking place in order of importance.
43
Two years ago, the HSE recognised that the number of malicious and accidental cyber security incidents was increasing rapidly, both in the UK and globally. The HSE’s response was to draft and release new Operational Guidelines for IACS which would be followed up with onsite cyber security audits that came into force in 2018 in plants across the country. The key objective of the HSE’s IACS Operational Guidelines was to offer a baseline from which organisations could implement cyber security processes, standards and training to successfully manage the health and safety risks resulting from a cyber security incident. However, while there is no doubt there is a real and present need for the new guidelines, and that some in the chemical processing industry have responded positively to the HSE’s actions, there is a number of significant challenges that lay ahead for the majority. The HSE plans to update its operational guidelines later this year following recent trials across a range of sites.
A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH To tackle this challenge, NEPIC sat down with Wilton-based Tekgem earlier this year to discuss how best to educate those working within the chemical-processing industry and help them to address the issues associated with IACS cyber security. The answer, we both agreed was they needed to hear from the source. In March, the HSE’s leading cyber security inspectors visited Wilton to outline the cyber security threats and discuss the key points within the guidelines. The HSE, along with SABIC, Tekgem and Frazer Nash addressed an audience that ranged from Instrument & Control Engineers to IT/ OT Support Technicians, Automation & DCS Managers to Engineering Directors and HSE managers, all of whom are currently working on chemical-processing plants. The event was the start of an IACS cyber security journey for all parties and participating member companies made it clear that they saw real benefits and agreed that an open and collaborative approach was needed to effectively manage the ever-evolving threat of cyber-attack, whether malicious or accidental. In fact, the high levels of knowledge shown by those at the event is a great reflection on the true professionalism that exists within the industry. Aware of the high-profile ransomware cyber-attacks, guests also recognised the risks posed by accidental breaches caused by employee error or network-breaches prompted by third party suppliers and represent a major threat to the effectiveness of IACS cyber security within the chemicalprocessing industries. However, a cultural change is required within all organisations going forward to ensure that, despite not witnessing the effects of a cyber-attack first hand, we fully understand the size, scale and scope of the potential risks and be prepared and accountable could an incident occur. The first question that needs to be answered is who is responsible. And if you’re that person it is better to respond to your cyber security threats now, rather than think the unthinkable won’t happen. Help it at hand and the HSE have provided some simple steps to improve security of IACS systems and the guidelines provide more detailed support. Also, expertise is available from organisations like Tekgem with their ‘Defence in Depth’ strategy. www.nepic.co.uk
| health and safety |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Looking to 2019: The Year of Leadership In terms of regulatory focus for COMAH establishments, 2019 will be the year of leadership. In this article, we will explore what this really means for operators and how they can provide the demonstration that process safety leadership is a successful mechanism for major accident hazard management at their sites. Time flies; it might seems like yesterday that process safety leadership was brought to the forefront by PSLG, but it was more than a decade ago. Ten years on, the COMAH Competent Authority (CA) want to ensure that these principles haven’t drifted. With a new delivery guide and planned interventions in the pipeline, it is time for COMAH operators to re-evaluate the influence their leaders have on major accident hazard management on their sites. For many, the principles of leadership are already there, but how can we demonstrate this somewhat intangible concept to the regulator? It is worth going back to basics and revisiting the eight principles of process safety leadership, introduced by PSLG, and remembering a few key points:
COLLABORATION IS KEY The importance of sharing, both within the organisation and in the wider industry, is often overlooked. Externally, there is a lot to be learnt from the experience of other sites and incidents and considering how to implement those lessons onsite. Internally, everyone needs to understand the requirements and be on the same page for the principles to work.
KNOWLEDGE DOESN’T EQUAL COMPETENCE Operators need to ensure that at least one member of the Board has competence in process safety, to make sure that it is factored into big decisions. Making sure our leaders are aware of what process safety is and how it impacts on their site is just the beginning. For process safety leadership to be considered successful, leaders must understand at a deeper level how process safety should be integrated into decision making. Competence is the experience and ability to understand how all aspects of process safety link together, from identifying and assessing hazards, to managing the
level of risk to ALARP (As Low As Reasonably Practicable) through technical measures and safety management system processes, right through to ensuring that emergency plans are robust enough if things were to go wrong. This enables the leaders to pinpoint priorities and understand the outcomes of their decisions.
REPORTING DOESN’T GUARANTEE ENGAGEMENT Most operators will report information about their establishments to the Board on a regular basis, but how much information is process safety vs profit and quality? Leaders must ensure that process safety is high on their agendas to demonstrate that they recognise the dependence of their business successes on safety. Furthermore, careful consideration should be given to the information provided. Are performance indicators still relevant to the establishment, or have they failed to evolve in line with changes in the risk profile?
EVERYONE IS A LEADER Yes, leadership traditionally refers to those at the top, and a great deal of successful process safety lies with ensuring that resources are in the right places, but we are all leaders when it comes to process safety management. Success relies on a healthy process safety culture, which can only be maintained when the majority of the workforce are engaged. In 2019, robust process safety leadership is more important than ever. With impending regulatory and economic uncertainty, it is important not to let safety fall by the wayside, and continue to make this a key focus of resource allocation. The familiar adage ‘if you think process safety is expensive, try having an accident’ is true – having process safety at the heart of leadership makes good business sense. Working with the Chemical Industries Association in partnership with ITN Productions, RAS have begun to make this a key focus for the year ahead in the programme Solutions for Our Future. Visit our website for more details. www.ras.ltd.uk Carolyn Nicholls carolyn.nicholls@ras.ltd.uk Jennifer Hill jennifer.hill@ras.ltd.uk
44
RAS RISK & HAZARD MANAGEMENT
Understanding and facilitating the effective management of risk is our core business. Our expertise covers the full range of risk assessment and management services across:
Safety Risk
Business Risk
Environment Risk
Only when the risk facing an organisation is well understood can it be effectively managed.
Key to the successful identification, assessment and management of risk is engagement with the right
people, using the right processes at the right time. We believe we are different to many of our competitors and our approach is distinctive, we don’t always walk the well-trodden path but look at each client’s particular risk context and develop a tailored solution, working in partnership with our client. We work across all aspects of risk, from Quantitative Risk Assessments and Predictive &
Consequence modelling, through to the ‘softer’ risks which may affect an organisation’s reputation.
+44 (0) 1244 674 612 • enquiries@ras.ltd.uk • www.ras.ltd.uk
| advertorial |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Proving his metal One man’s journey from the steelyards of Clydeside to an MBA and beyond Do you know what the Isle of Cumbrae, an ironman competition and an MBA have in common? Read on to find out more: You might associate MBAs with the traditional route of an undergraduate degree, postgraduate study and a little experience of the working world thrown in too, but some people take a different path. Stevie Mitchell left school in 1988 and didn’t go on to higher education, instead, taking up a role as an apprentice plater at Clydeside Engineers - James Howden & Co. Until that point no one in his family had been to university. Yet Stevie had a thirst to learn. Having completed his apprenticeship at Yarrow Shipbuilders, and while working as a plater, he signed up for and self-financed several courses at evening school including one in computer-aided design. Just as he completed the course, an opportunity came up for a secondment in the design office using his new found skills. It was a serendipitous move which proved a turning point in Stevie’s career, leading to contract design work around the globe. During the following decade, Stevie built up an impressive roll-call of clients in the engineering, construction, petrochemicals, and oil & gas industries. Upon applying for a new design role, Stevie was surprised to be offered a job as a project engineer at an oil refinery. The role quickly grew in remit, following new regulations brought in after the Buncefield explosion and Stevie set to work putting the right controls, procedures and
management in place, soon making his mark. Never one to rest on his laurels and always looking to develop his skills, it was about this time that a new idea took root – to study for an MBA. Stevie began his search for a course that would fit in around his commitments and one stood out, the MBA offered at the University of Glasgow’s Adam Smith Business School. Stevie explains: “From the start, the Business School was interested in what I had to contribute to the course, along with what the MBA would offer me and this fresh perspective intrigued me. Instead of giving me the hard sell, as some business schools had done or simply taking a laissez-faire attitude along the lines of ‘well by all means apply and we’ll see how you get on’, Glasgow took a different approach. “From my first phone call, the Adam Smith Business School took an interest in me as an individual. Instead of doubting whether I was capable of taking an MBA given I hadn’t been in full-time education for a while and didn’t possess an undergraduate degree – they looked at things differently. The team at Glasgow recognised the value of my experience and helped me to recognise it too – giving me the confidence to study for an MBA. “I was chatting to the Business School one day – still undecided as to which particular course to sign up for or how to study, maybe part-time, maybe distance learning. I’d assumed I’d work full-time, whilst shoe-horning the MBA in around my job – when someone suggested– ‘Have you thought of studying full-time?’.
46
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| advertorial |
“I hadn’t, but focusing on the course full-time really appealed. Not only would I complete the course sooner, but I could give the course my full attention, thereby giving me the best chance of success. “The idea crystallised and I made my choice - I chose the Adam Smith Business School and to take the leap of studying full-time. I was blown away with the support that had been offered to me and this support continued throughout the course and beyond. “The School put a lot of thought into who they accepted on the course. We were a diverse group of people, some of whom were local like me, whilst others came from around the world, we all had different things to contribute, yet we gelled really well. I was pleased to find that I wasn’t made to feel like an elder statesman – I was just one of the students, like everyone else. “Both those leading the MBA and those who’d joined the course became a close-knit community. We still keep in touch now and few days go by when we don’t connect on social media. Those of us based in the Glasgow area meet up when we can. “Studying full-time when you have the responsibilities of a family or a job can be a challenge, but it also makes you more focused and determined. I was at the library each morning from 7 am, fitting in a couple of hours of studying before lectures began. “I found this the best way to devote time to the course whilst being there for my family and supporting my children at after-school activities. It’s possible, you just have to be organised and a little bit tenacious, and every now and again accept you’ll have a day when it doesn’t all come together – and that’s okay.” That same tenacity has seen Stevie enter ironman competitions and swim around the Isle of Cumbrae, for which he spent months preparing, swimming, weight training and sitting in ice-filled baths to acclimatise himself to the sea.
“Aside from the main course content, and our electives, the University gave us a huge amount of support, from mentoring and career advice to CV reviews and you can’t put a price on that. More value was added as this support didn’t stop with the last lecture - the Business School continues to go the extra mile for us. “Now I am pleased to be reciprocating. I was asked to speak to the MBA group in 2016 and also assisted the Business School in their successful reapplication for both AMBA and EQUIS accreditation. If you’d asked me several years ago if I’d be doing this, I wouldn’t have envisaged it at all. The MBA has improved my confidence no end, I’ve learnt to build a rapport with people from all backgrounds, at all levels of an organisation and as a result my collaborative working has improved too. “During the course, we completed a consultative project working with a business on a live problem and through this, one of the companies we contacted offered me part-time work on several projects. Several months down the line, I was delighted to receive a job offer from them, which I took up immediately after graduating. It proved a great opportunity to apply what I’d learnt on the MBA. “My advice to prospective students would be – make the most of every opportunity you are offered on the course – you don’t know where it will lead. “Today, I am the Programme manager of a £330m+ Energy from Waste Plant EPC project. It’s not a job I’m likely to have been offered without the MBA – in fact, both my earlier experience and my qualifications dovetail perfectly in this role. A lot of the job involves negotiating with a wide range of stakeholders and the Glasgow MBA equipped me to meet this challenge. “Completing the MBA took my career to a new level – it enabled me to take the leap from a managerial role to working at more of an executive level - which is quite a long way to come for a lad who once worked as an apprentice plater. When I stepped into the steelyard that first morning, I could never have envisaged the path my life would take.”
“Today, I am the Programme manager of a £330m+ Energy from Waste Plant EPC project. It’s not a job I’m likely to have been offered without the MBA.” 47
TRANSFORM YOUR FUTURE GLASGOW MBA Realise your true potential with our world class, one year MBA. Learn practical skills with 1:1 focus, in a triple accredited business school. glasgow.ac.uk/mba #GlasgowMBA Adam Smith Business School is triple accredited by
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| news |
Best hope yet for aluminium-ion batteries UNSW Sydney’s Dr Dong Jun Kim has led a team of researchers to show rechargeable aluminium-ion batteries are a possibility with a future in renewable energy storage. Aluminium-ion batteries could offer improved renewable energy storage. Image from Shutterstock Aluminium-ion batteries are a step closer to becoming a reality after a UNSW Sydney chemist found a way to make the science behind the technology work. In a study completed at Northwestern University in Illinois and published today in Nature Energy, Dr Dong Jun Kim – now of UNSW’s School of Chemistry – led a team of researchers including Nobel Laureate Sir Fraser Stoddart to demonstrate a strategy for designing active materials for rechargeable aluminium batteries. Dr Dong Jun Kim is a lecturer with UNSW’s School of Chemistry. Up until now, finding appropriate host electrodes for insertion of complex aluminium ions had been a fundamental challenge. “We found a novel way to design rechargeable aluminium batteries by employing a redox-active macrocyclic compound as the active material,” Dr Kim said. In other words, Dr Kim and his team managed to use a large organic chemical compound as the part of the battery that stores energy, something that previously had researchers stumped.
“We believe the research discussed in the article opens up a new approach to designing aluminiumion batteries that could be of interest to scientists investigating next-generation electrochemical energy storage,” Dr Kim added. What makes this is a big deal is that while lithium-ion batteries have enjoyed remarkable success powering mobile electronic devices, in renewable energy applications they are fraught by limited cycle life, safety concerns and relatively high costs. Aluminium-ion batteries, on the other hand, have been seen as ideal contenders for this space, given aluminium is the third most abundant element in the Earth’s crust behind oxygen and silicon. It also has the one of the highest theoretical volumetric capacities on account of its multiple redox states. “Developing batteries using aluminium has received a lot of expectation for delivering high energy to price ratios,” Dr Kim said. “Our results showed promising battery performances, however, it is early days and we stress that there is need to improve even more in every aspect. So it does not make much sense to compare against the wellestablished lithium-ion battery system.” Dr Kim said he will be continuing to research aluminium-ion batteries while examining the potential of using other elements. “I look forward to further research on utilising redox-active organic molecules for multivalent-ion intercalation batteries such as aluminium, magnesium, zinc, and calcium,” he said.
“We believe the research discussed in the article opens up a new approach to designing aluminium-ion batteries that could be of interest to scientists investigating next-generation electrochemical energy storage.”
49
| news |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Paving the way for more efficient hydrogen cars By American Chemical Society Hydrogen-powered vehicles emit only water vapor from their tailpipes, offering a cleaner alternative to fossilfuel-based transportation. But for hydrogen cars to become mainstream, scientists need to develop more efficient hydrogen-storage systems. Now, researchers reporting in ACS’ Chemistry of Materials have used metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) to set a new record for hydrogen storage capacity under normal operating conditions. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, in 2017 the U.S. had 34 publicly accessible hydrogen fueling stations, with 31 of these in California. Along with increased fueling infrastructure, technological advances are needed for the widespread adoption of hydrogen cars. In particular, improved hydrogen storage systems could increase the driving range of the automobiles while reducing cost. Current hydrogen cars use expensive, bulky cooling or compression systems to store enough hydrogen for acceptable driving ranges.
Jeffrey Long and colleagues wondered if they could use MOFs to store more hydrogen fuel under normal driving conditions. MOFs are compounds that contain metal ions coordinated to organic ligands. The 3D structures of some MOFs form pores that strongly adsorb molecules of hydrogen gas and cause them to attract other molecules, which could allow the gas to condense under near-ambient conditions. To determine the best MOF for hydrogen storage, the researchers tested four different compounds –– two that contained nickel and two that contained cobalt as the coordinating metal. A MOF called Ni2(m-dobdc) showed the highest hydrogen-storage capacity over a range of pressures and temperatures. At ambient temperature and a much lower tank pressure than used in current hydrogen vehicles, Ni2(m-dobdc) set a new record for hydrogen storage capacity of 11.9 g of fuel per liter of MOF crystal. The MOF had a significantly greater storage capacity than compressed hydrogen gas under the same conditions. When the researchers examined the structure of the MOF by neutron diffraction, they found that a single pore contained seven specific binding sites for hydrogen gas that enabled dense packing of the fuel.
50
| ctpa |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Preparing for the future The Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association (CTPA) acts as the voice of the UK industry, representing all types of companies involved in making, supplying and selling cosmetic and personal care products and suppliers to the industry. Through co-ordination of the industry’s viewpoint on key issues such as safety, science, legislation and innovation, the Association is able to promote good working practices to ensure that consumers are provided with the very best products. EXITING THE EU On 29 March 2017, the United Kingdom submitted the notification of its intention to withdraw from the European Union under Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union. Therefore from 29 March 2019, the UK will become a ‘third country’ to the European Union (EU) and all EU primary and secondary law will cease to apply in the UK on this date unless a ratified Withdrawal Agreement establishes another date. These include over 30 Regulations that impact the cosmetics sector including in particular the Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 and REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (Registration, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals). Contingency planning is crucial to ensure business continuity. Companies need to prepare for the possibility of the UK leaving the EU on 29 March 2019 under a ‘no deal’ scenario, and consequently with no implementation period. CTPA, has comprehensively engaged with key UK Government officials and industry bodies such as Cosmetics Europe, the European personal care association, and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) to ensure that the cosmetics industry position is clearly heard during the EU exit negotiations. CTPA has a dedicated area on www.ctpa.org.uk where CTPA tackles Brexit.
REACH While work continues on the implementation of the new UK cosmetics legislation, focus has now turned to UK chemicals legislation and its relationship with REACH. EU The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has updated its Brexit page following the publication of the draft Withdrawal Agreement. The ECHA Brexit page also provides specific Q&As to advise companies more specifically based on their role and location. ECHA is alerting companies based in the EU27/EEA that they will be affected by Brexit if their supply chain involves a UK company.
The Agency is also advising UK companies that the EU chemicals legislation (REACH, CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging), Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) and Prior Informed Consent (PIC)) will no longer apply to them post-Brexit. ECHA has also published a specific page highlighting what is important to know before Brexit, focusing on REACH registrations and authorisations, C&L inventory, manufacture and supply of biocide products. In addition, in January 2019, ECHA will provide technical guidance for UK-based companies on how to notify ECHA through REACH-IT of changes related to appointing an Only Representative (OR) based in one of the remaining EU-27 Member States. UK With regard to the UK, the Government has issued an updated ‘no deal’ technical notice on REACH. The document gives additional information of the UK REACH plan in the event of a ‘no deal’ Brexit. In particular it provides advice on the following topics: What are the impacts and the actions to take for a UK registration holder of EU REACH who wants to continue to market the substance in the UK? What are the impacts and the actions to take for a UK Downstream User or a distributor wishing to maintain UK market access for a substance registered under EU REACH? What are the impacts and the actions to take for a UK importer of a substance outside of the EU/EEA? Management of Substances of Very High Concern and Restrictions Registrations waiting for ECHA’s decision Overview of UK REACH As it stands, the UK proposal will be extremely challenging for the cosmetics industry to fulfil as it will require companies to duplicate registrations already performed
52
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| ctpa |
at EU level, and is relying on the fact that the EU registration dossier will be uploaded on the UK REACH system post-Brexit. The House of Lords EU Energy and Environment SubCommittee published its report on chemical regulations after Brexit. The report highlights: the impact of Brexit on the chemicals sector for both the UK and the EU, especially in regard to access to substances, disruptions to the supply chain, loss of data, concerns of duplicating animal testing, costs that will be faced by the industry, and more; the concerns around the current plan issued by the UK Government for the UK regulatory regime post Brexit and the arrangements for continued compliance with EU REACH. The report is calling on the UK Government to: urgently explain how its independent regulatory regime would work; put forward a more credible plan for collecting information on chemicals; identify which UK agency will take on the role of chemical regulation; and enable UK chemical businesses, including SMEs, to take steps to maintain their access to the EU market ahead of exit day. CTPA has taken this issue up at the highest political level. Allied chemical industries have also contacted Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) to highlight the sector’s concerns on the current approach toward management of EU REACH and the plan of a UK REACH framework.
PLASTICS While plastic is currently a focus of attention, it is a useful material with many benefits when used as packaging, as component parts of packaging or as items to be used in association with the product contained within. The main aim for packaging is to protect its contents from spoiling, so protecting the consumer, and to enable the consumer to safely store and use the product over time. Cosmetic packaging must also be labelled with specific legally required information, including a list of ingredients and, where necessary, how to use the product safely. Cosmetics’ manufacturers try to strike the right balance between a product that is protected for use over several months, or even years, and minimising packaging. CTPA completely understands the problem of excessive plastic litter and welcomes the UK Government’s 25 Year Environment Plan, one aspect of which is to minimise waste.
53
UK The Chancellor announced in the Autumn Budget that, subject to consultation, a tax would be introduced from April 2022 on the production and import of plastic packaging which does not contain at least 30% recycled plastic. On 18 December 2018 the UK Government launched its Resources and Waste Strategy, as part of its 25 Year Environment Plan. The strategy encompasses a number of initiatives on waste and plastics, including the above proposed tax on plastic packaging, reforms to the Packaging Producer Responsibility System, a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) and also ‘waste crime’. Consultations on the reforms to Packaging Producer Responsibility and a tax on plastic-based packaging are expected in early 2019. EU The European Commission has mandated the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) to review ‘microplastics’ intentionally added to consumer products under the REACH Regulation. In early 2018, ECHA issued a call for evidence on ‘microplastics’. The scope of the call for evidence was extremely broad: all solid polymers in all consumer products, i.e. rinse-off and leave-on and both synthetic and natural, are under investigation. With the working definition of ‘plastic’ being “any solid polymer”, the potential impact on the industry is huge. Most potential alternative ingredients will also be covered by the broad definition. CTPA has grave concerns regarding the potential impact to the UK cosmetics industry of a REACH Restriction which is not science-driven and evidence-based. The industry has provided information to ECHA on the importance of scientific definitions and the possible economic impact of a broad restriction scope. CTPA, as part of the wider European cosmetics industry, advocates the definitions used in the existing UK legislation on plastic microbeads: “microbead” means any water-insoluble solid plastic particle of less than or equal to 5mm in any dimension. “plastic” means a synthetic polymeric substance that can be moulded, extruded or physically manipulated into various solid forms and that retains its final manufactured shape during use in its intended applications. The ECHA proposal of a Restriction Dossier on ‘microplastics’ under REACH is anticipated early January 2019. The proposal will then be reviewed by key ECHA committees throughout 2019. The CTPA consumer website, www.thefactsabout.co.uk, holds a wealth of information about the science behind products, ingredient issues and the strict rules governing the safety of such products, as well as an in-depth look at plastic microbeads.
| reach |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Chemicals Regulation after Brexit – what next? Since March 2017, when the UK invoked Article 50 to exit the EU, little else has been discussed by Government and policy makers. Whilst Government policy states that a no deal scenario (with no single market type agreement, and no transitional period) remains unlikely given the mutual interests in securing a negotiated deal, it advises that it is its duty as a responsible Government to prepare for all eventualities. Increasingly the prospects of a no-deal Brexit after 29 March 2019 are being considered. Chemicals regulation after the UK has left the EU was the subject of a recent one-off session of the House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee (EAC). The panel considered questions including whether the UK’s participation in Regulation, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) will continue seamlessly during the transition period, the challenges of a no deal Brexit, (which industry witnesses said would be ‘catastrophic’), and what still needs to be addressed. The lack of detail in the Government’s September technical notice on ‘regulating chemicals (REACH) if there’s no Brexit deal’ was discussed as a key concern for industry. Whilst the Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) ‘additional no deal REACH guidance’ has since fleshed out some of the detail
on actions which businesses should take to maintain or gain access to EU/EEA markets, industry still has concerns around how this will work in practice, and how a no deal Brexit would impact the competitiveness of the UK chemicals industry. One factor is the additional regulatory burden, including increased administration and cost, imposed by the requirement to register or re-register chemical substances under UK REACH in a no deal scenario. There are many aspects to this. Many companies have never had to think about REACH before, as they have simply been moving around a European product which has already been registered by someone else in their supply chain. Another concern is that UK companies using high-value, low volume
54
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
| reach |
substances may find that registration for UK REACH (particularly the data access costs), based on UK tonnages alone, is not economically viable for what may be a small market. Will some UK manufacturers consider moving their plant to the EU, so as to ensure more immediate access to larger markets and one set of regulatory obligations? Will their EEA customers decide to source their chemicals from suppliers in the EU-27 post Brexit, rather than taking on the EU REACH registration obligation themselves? Also, it is not yet clear how companies manufacturing/importing the same substances in/into the UK will adhere to the principle of one registration one substance, share data costs and minimise animal testing. The HSE’s Additional guidance suggests early contact with members of the relevant SIEF (Substance Information Exchange Forum), however this is unlikely to be straightforward, as under EU REACH, SIEFs were only operational until 1 July 2018 - the last REACH registration deadline.
take on the work currently carried out by ECHA’s expert committees, such as the Committees on Risk Analysis, Socio- Economic Assessment and Biocidal Products.
Panellists also observed that the potential cost of registrations/re-registrations for UK REACH in a no deal Brexit is likely to be significant, estimated at £450million on top of the £550 million already invested by businesses. This assumes that data access costs will need to be replicated, since existing data access agreements typically limit use to EU REACH. Fundamentally, data access for UK REACH will be a matter of commercial negotiation around whether data owners are prepared to share the data (and there may be reluctance for competition-related reasons), and if so, on what terms, including cost. If negotiation is unsuccessful, repeat testing will be necessary, with a potentially significant impact on animal testing. In September, the Government’s technical notice gave a 2 year timescale for UK REACH registrants to submit a full dataset. However, the HSE has since indicated, in its ‘additional no deal REACH guidance’ that this 2 year period will be kept under review, possibly a tacit acknowledgement that it’s an unrealistic timescale.
The reality of a no deal Brexit is that the UK would be locked out of the ECHA database, which cannot be simply downloaded or replicated due to intellectual property issues. The database includes details of over 21,000 individual chemicals registered under REACH, including information on their physical and chemical properties and guidance for safe use. Even if the information is publicly available, (and some information is withheld on grounds of confidentiality), the legal notice on the ECHA website is very clear that the ECHA Portal, the database and the software must not be copied or commercially used without the prior written consent of ECHA. This is in addition to the data protection rights held by third parties in relation to the data itself.
Regulatory divergence following Brexit is another significant concern for the sector, which sees alignment with EU law as critical to maintaining access to the EU market. Following a no deal Brexit, UK companies could potentially have to comply with two sets of law: EU law for any product exported to the EU, and UK law for the UK market, incurring additional cost which could make them less competitive. In its September Technical Notice on no deal, the Government confirmed that the UK is committed to maintaining environmental standards after Brexit, however - divergence from EU law remains a risk. So far as the proposed deal is concerned, it addresses one of the chemical industry’s priorities: regulatory consistency. During the transition period, there would be regulatory alignment, but with no participation by UK representatives or experts in any meetings of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), (other than ‘exceptionally’ if one of two specified conditions is fulfilled) and no voting rights. The UK HSE will cease to be a Competent Authority for the evaluation of substances under REACH (unlike regulators in Norway and other EEA countries). As a result, the UK will follow whatever is enacted at EU level, but with no opportunity to input or to influence. At the end of the transition period, the path forward will depend upon what is agreed as part of a future trading relationship. Even if the transition period is agreed, the future remains uncertain. Questions remain as to how prepared the Government actually is for a no deal Brexit. Panellists at the EAC session queried the capability of HSE to take on additional responsibilities in a no deal scenario, in terms of resource (ECHA has 500 employees), training and access to expertise. In addition to its significant role in relation to UK REACH, HSE is in the frame to replace ECHA in relation to CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulation), PIC (Prior Informed Consent Regulation), and the evaluation of active substances under the biocides regime. It will also
55
Other questions concern the status of the UK REACH IT system (on which £5.8 million is reported to have been spent). HSE has confirmed in its ‘additional no deal REACH guidance’ that this system, mirroring EU REACH IT, which is being built for registrations and notifications will be operable from 29 March 2019. The plan is for it to replicate the same functionalities as EU REACH IT, allowing the software application IUCLID to be used ‘so that the same dossiers can be uploaded to UK REACH-IT’. But what exactly will UK REACH IT comprise? The current view from industry is that it will have only a basic functionality on Brexit and it is not yet known whether it will deliver any sort of system for CLP and if there will be a separate system for biocides.
In light of these concerns, a significant aspect of the proposed Brexit deal for the chemical industry is ongoing full access to the ECHA database throughout the transition period. Looking further ahead, the industry is encouraged by the reference to possible future cooperation with ECHA in the Political Declaration. The Government’s preferred approach is a form of associate membership of ECHA which could include a licence to use the ECHA database, access to EU REACH IT, the ability to register chemical substances directly with ECHA and contribution of expertise (but without voting rights). This would come at a price, but in the industry’s view, well worthwhile to maintain frictionless trade and to avoid the UK trying to replicate a system which is seen as the benchmark for global chemicals regulation. In the meantime, as Government ramps up its preparations for no deal, the industry continues to flag concerns such as the risk of ‘just-in-time’ chemicals (including chemicals for key sectors such as water and energy) getting caught in border chaos. It urges Government to step up its engagement with industry, with events which are widely accessible and include more workshops and webinars. The industry is also looking for reassurance that Government is listening to the concerns raised, to avoid what was described at the EAC session as “a long, slow puncture of the chemicals industry”. For more information, please contact:
Elizabeth Shepherd Partner, Eversheds Sutherland T: +44 161 831 8215 M: +44 786 079 6884 elizabethshepherd@eversheds-sutherland.com
| reach |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Potential Turkish-REACH (KKDIK) registrants preparing for Turkey Since the last deadline for EU REACH Registrations is over, manufacturers and importers have more time to concentrate on other global chemicals regulations. Turkish REACH, KKDIK, is just one of them. KKDIK which is an adaptation of EU REACH Regulation was officially introduced in June 2017 for manufacturers and importers putting substances on its own, in mixtures and articles into the Turkish market. Since almost same principles apply as in EU REACH, this brings in some questions to mind as several different aspects of REACH have been experienced by many companies in the EU for the last 10 years. Being a member of G20 and having a Customs Union with the EU, Turkey is inevitably adopting the EU Regulations due to the EU membership negotiations and within the framework of harmonization of European Union acquis. As a result of global changes in chemicals regulations and recent developments in the EU, Turkey accelerated the approximation process which is considered to improve the conditions of trade in chemicals with the EU. Therefore, the chemical industry is one of the most affected sectors in Turkey from the harmonisation procedures. Chemicals importation also bears considerable importance for the Turkish chemical industry. Local formulators play a big role in chemicals exportation of Turkey. Total chemicals exportation of the country to the EU is $6.7 billion while total chemicals imports from the EU is worth $20.9 billion in 2017. New chemicals regulations in Turkey are closely monitored by non-Turkish companies putting chemicals into this market and it is a concern to them. One of the harmonisation achievements of Turkish Ministry of Environment and Urbanisation (MoEU) is the By-Law on the Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Substances and Mixtures abbreviated as SEA. SEA was successfully put into force in 2013 with transition periods already over. From a chronological approach, Turkish CLP (SEA) was put into force before KKDIK unlike in the EU. SEA in Turkey is almost in line with the CLP principles in the EU now. Changes in EU CLP will gradually be reflected to SEA Regulation as well. A draft CLP amendment is already open for consultation and stakeholders are expected to comment on it. Article 45 of EU CLP Regulation which defines the obligation for Poison Centres Notification was not included in the SEA
Regulation when it was first published. This amendment introduces now Poison Centre Notification principle as well. Sharing knowledge and information within the industry is the key for compliance with KKDIK but Turkish manufacturers that did not register for REACH in the past have no experience and are questioning the route to data sharing frequently. However, international companies with manufacturing sites located in the EU are well organised and ahead of the process for KKDIK registrations. Many international companies with several legal entities all over the world placing chemicals to Turkish market already specified for which legal entities they are in urgent need of a (pre)-registration and are now joining SIEFs under KKDIK. The next step is not far away and SIEF communications will start during 2019 resulting with consortia formation for some substances. Hard work is involved when it comes to consortia as this should be managed very well in close correspondence with the EU consortia that already registered their substances for EU REACH. Lead registrants in the EU are doing their assessments to decide which role to take in Turkey either through their Only Representatives (OR) or subsidiaries in Turkey. While complex supply chains and indirect exports make it more complicated, the Only Representative option for non-Turkish, international manufacturers seems like a good solution, if this business relationship is managed and contracted correctly. The OR role and definition in KKDIK is identical with EU REACH Regulation (Article 9 in KKDIK, Article 8 in REACH). In a local environment where new consultants with no REACH experience are popping up, without any qualified staff, the assignment of a local Only Representative becomes a critical decision for foreign manufacturers. Therefore, a thorough investigation is highly recommended before appointing an OR. REACH Global Services S.A celebrated in 2018 its 10th year of EU Regulatory Compliance servicing with hundreds of clients all over the world. RGS has been representing nonTurkish companies to comply with Turkish regulations since 2011 through its Turkish subsidiary which is 100% owned by the mother company in Belgium. Do not hesitate to contact RGS; if you need compliance with Turkish Chemicals Laws or assistance on strategies to follow for your company to comply with KKDIK. Dr. Yaprak Yuzak Kucukvar RGS Turkey Branch Manager
56
EUROPEAN UNION • TURKEY • JAPAN • CHINA • KOREA • TAIWAN RGS S.A. - Belgium Head Office + 32 (2) 234 77 77
RGS A.Ş. - Turkey Subsidiary + 90 (212) 454 09 93
info@reach-gs.eu
www.reach-gs.eu
| news |
| CHEMICAL INDUSTRY JOURNAL |
Yale scientists make a borophene breakthrough The thinnest flake, just one atom thick, has provided scientists at Yale and the Brookhaven National Laboratory with new insight into a promising material for the next generation of high-speed electronics and a host of practical applications. Sheets of boron, or borophene — a close cousin of graphene, a material 200 times stronger than steel that promised to revolutionize electronics — were first theorized in the mid-1990s, but synthesizing the material has defied scientists for almost a decade. These composite materials, atomically thin with the greatest surface-to-mass ratios, are valuable for potential applications in solar cells and energy storage, the fastest and smallest transistors, new touch screens, batteries, and water filters. The challenge has been how to turn these naturally abundant elements into technologically useful materials. While the potential electronic and elastic properties of twodimensional (2D) boron crystals has excited the interest of scientists in the field, prior production of borophene flakes were too small for device fabrication, their “tunable” structure remaining unproven.
In a study published in Nature Nanotechnology, scientists at Yale’s Energy Sciences Institute have taken the next step in modifying the crystal structure of borophene by growing large, device-size crystals up to 100 square micrometers in size on copper surfaces. “For most other known materials their structure is set. They are either impossible or very hard to morph from one stable structure into the other, rather like turning natural graphite into a diamond, even though they are both forms of carbon,” said Yale research scientist Adrian Gozar, the study’s senior author. “Borophene has exceptional properties that we can now think about stabilizing for literally numerous applications.” Theoretical calculations by the researchers indicate a crystal structure consisting of a novel triangular network and an interaction between borophene and copper that is characterized by electronic charge transfer. With the new material’s potential to outmatch graphene in its elasticity, strength, and conductivity, the work has set the stage for fabricating borophene-based devices and brings closer the idea of borophene as a model for artificial 2D materials development, said the scientists.
Write with heat, cool and then repeat with rewritable paper By American Chemical Society Even in this digital age, paper is still everywhere. Often, printed materials get used once and are then discarded, creating waste and potentially pollution. Now, scientists report in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces the development of an easy-to-make “rewritable” paper that can be drawn or printed on over and over again. The messages can last more than half a year, compared to other rewritable papers whose messages fade after a few days or a few months. The idea for rewritable paper isn’t new, with several research groups pursuing different development strategies over the past few decades. But many of these approaches have drawbacks, such as complex fabrication, chemistry that relies on ultraviolet light to erase the writing or a constant
need for energy to maintain the document. To overcome these limitations, Luzhuo Chen and colleagues wanted to develop a simple method for making long-lasting rewritable paper that can be wiped clean simply by changing the temperature. The new material consisted of three layers in a sandwichlike structure. The researchers painted one side of a piece of paper with a blue dye that becomes colorless upon heating, just like the t-shirts popular in the 1990s that changed color when they were touched with a warm hand. Then, the other side of the paper was coated with a black toner layer that produces heat upon excitation with light. Using a “pen” that applies heat, a thermal printer or a source of near-infrared light, the team created images and words that remained legible for more than six months. They also produced a rewritable cell phone case. To reset the paper, the researchers cooled it down to 14F. This process could be repeated more than 100 times.
58
Take your place in our global community As the UK’s professional body for chemical scientists, we are committed to supporting and representing our members Gain industry recognised qualifications for your professionalism and experience with our professional development framework for chartered status Widen your network and share ideas by connecting with our vibrant community of interest groups and taking part in our scientific and social events Take advantage of specialist support throughout your career to help you set targets, track your development, build your knowledge and achieve your goals
Become a Royal Society of Chemistry member today Visit rsc.li/join to find out more Or come and chat to us during CHEMUK 2019 on stand B20
Registered charity number: 207890
palladium catalysts niobium
1
H
erbium fluoride sputtering targets 3
zeolites 11
anode
2 1
Li
4
Na
2 8 1
12
K
osmium
Mg 24.305
Sodium
Magnesium 2 8 8 1
20
2 8 18 8 1
38
Ca
MOFs ZnS
Rb Cs
Sr
AuNPs
39
2 8 18 18 8 1
Francium
2 8 18 9 2
40
Sc
Ti
56
Ba
88
Ra (226)
Y
57
La
Zr
Ac (227)
Radium
41
50.9415
Vanadium
91.224
2 8 18 18 9 2
72
Hf
138.90547
89
2 8 18 10 2
Nb
104
Rf (267)
24
2 8 18 12 1
42
2 8 18 32 10 2
73
Ta
Cr
Db (268)
Rutherfordium
2 8 18 13 1
43
51.9961
Mn
EuFOD
Ce 140.116
quantum dots
Th 232.03806
Pr
2 8 18 21 8 2
140.90765
Cerium 90
59
Mo 95.96
2 8 18 32 11 2
Praseodymium 2 8 18 32 18 10 2
Thorium
91
Pa 231.03588
2 8 18 32 20 9 2
2 8 18 32 32 11 2
74
W
2 8 18 32 12 2
75
U
238.02891
Protactinium
Uranium
Fe
2 8 14 2
27
2 8 18 15 1
45
106
Sg (271)
2 8 18 22 8 2
61
Co
2 8 15 2
28
2 8 18 16 1
46
Ni
Tc Re
2 8 18 32 32 12 2
107
Bh (272)
2 8 18 23 8 2
2 8 16 2
29
2 8 18 18
47
Pm Sm (145)
93
Np (237)
Neptunium
Ru 101.07
2 8 18 32 13 2
76
Os
Cu
108
Hs
77
Ir
(270)
Pd
2 8 18 1
30
2 8 18 18 1
48
106.42
2 8 18 32 15 2
78
Pt
192.217
2 8 18 32 32 14 2
109
Mt (276)
Ag
79
195.084
Meitnerium
110
Ds (281)
Au
49
111
Rg
63
Eu
2 8 18 25 8 2
64
151.964
2 8 18 32 24 8 2
95
Gd
2 8 18 25 9 2
65
157.25
Europium
(280)
Roentgenium
96
Tb
66
2 8 18 27 8 2
158.92535
Gadolinium 2 8 18 32 25 8 2
80
Hg
112
Cn
81
(285)
97
67
98
2 8 18 32 27 8 2
Ho
99
(244)
(243)
Americium
(247)
Curium
(247)
(251)
Berkelium
Californium
rhodium sponge
(252)
Einsteinium
2 8 18 18 3
50
Ge
2 8 18 32 32 18 2
2 8 18 29 8 2
O
P
Sn
33
2 8 18 18 4
51
As
82
Pb
113
Nh (284)
Sb
Fl (289)
Nihonium
52
Se
83
Bi
Flerovium
Mc (288)
53
2 8 18 32 18 5
84
Po
Moscovium
Lv (293)
85
2 8 18 32 18 6
OLED lighting
laser crystals
I
At
117
2 8 18 32 32 18 6
Ts (294)
Er
2 8 18 30 8 2
167.259
69
Tm
100
(257)
Fermium
2 8 18 31 8 2
70
168.93421
173.054
Thulium
2 8 18 32 30 8 2
101
Md (258)
Yb
2 8 18 32 8 2
71
Lu
2 8 18 32 31 8 2
102
No (259)
Mendelevium
2 8 18 32 32 8 2
Nobelium
Rn
2 8 18 32 18 8
(222)
Radon 2 8 18 32 32 18 7
103
118
Og (294)
2 8 18 32 32 18 8
h-BN
yttrium
Oganesson
Lr (262)
calcium wires
mischmetal
Lawrencium
chalcogenides
CVD precursors deposition slugs YBCO
photovoltaics
metamate
supercond
solar energy
American Elements opens a world of possibilities so you can
www.americanelements.com
spintronic
platinum ink
optical glass
Inva
GDC
2 8 18 32 32 8 3
rare earth metals
The Next Generation of Material Science Catalogs
advanced polymers
Xenon
Lutetium
new products. And much more. All on a secure multi-language "Mobile Responsive� platform.
dielectrics
Xe
cermet
2 8 18 18 8
131.293
174.9668
Ytterbium
ium niobate
etics
2 8 18 8
83.798
2 8 18 32 9 2
state-of-the-art Research Center. Printable GHS-compliant Safety Data Sheets. Thousands of
MOCVD
86
Nd:YAG
silver nanoparticles
68
Over 15,000 certified high purity laboratory chemicals, metals, & advanced materials and a
ferrofluid
2 8 18 32 18 7
2 8 8
Krypton
Tennessine
scandium powder
ultra high purity materials
54
(210)
ium pellets
lanthanum rods
2 8 18 18 7
Kr
Astatine
Livermorium
Now Invent.
sputtering targets
36
Iodine
TM
mesoporous silica
Br
2 8 18 7
126.90447
(209)
116
39.948
Argon
79.904
Polonium 2 8 18 32 32 18 5
Ar
Bromine
127.6
208.9804
115
2 8 18 18 6
Tellurium
Bismuth 2 8 18 32 32 18 4
35
78.96
Te
Cl
Neon
18
35.453
2 8 18 6
ITO
20.1797
2 8 7
Chlorine
Selenium
121.76
2 8 18 32 18 4
17
2 8 6
S
Antimony
207.2
114
2 8 18 18 5
74.9216
Lead 2 8 18 32 32 18 3
34
Ne
2 8
nano ribbon
Fluorine
32.065
2 8 18 5
10
18.9984032
Sulfur
Arsenic
Tin
2 8 18 32 18 3
16
30.973762
2 8 18 4
F
15.9994
2 8 5
He Helium
2 7
CIGS
2
4.002602
9
2 6
Oxygen
Phosphorus
72.64
Erbium 2 8 18 32 29 8 2
15
118.71
Tl
Holmium 2 8 18 32 28 8 2
32
204.3833
164.93032
Dysprosium
2 8 18 3
Thallium
Copernicium
162.5
Terbium
2 8 18 32 25 9 2
Dy
2 8 18 28 8 2
28.0855
114.818
2 8 18 32 18 2
2 8 4
Si
Indium
Pu Amstabilized Cm Bk zirconia Cf Es Fm yttrium Plutonium
N
8
14.0067
Germanium
In
macromolecules
2 8 18 24 8 2
2 5
Nitrogen
Silicon
69.723
200.59
2 8 18 32 32 18 1
14
Gallium
Mercury
cerium oxide polishing powder
tungsten carbide
Cd
Gold
Darmstadtium
2 8 18 18 2
Ga
112.411
196.966569
2 8 18 32 32 17 1
31
Cadmium 2 8 18 32 18 1
2 8 3
Al
Zinc
Silver
2 8 18 32 17 1
2 8 18 2
65.38
107.8682
Platinum 2 8 18 32 32 15 2
Zn
Copper
Palladium
Iridium
Hassium
150.36
94
102.9055
2 8 18 32 14 2
C
7
12.0107
26.9815386
63.546
Nickel
Rhodium
190.23
Samarium
2 8 18 32 22 9 2
Rh
Osmium 2 8 18 32 32 13 2
58.6934
Cobalt
Ruthenium
Bohrium
62
58.933195
Iron
186.207
Promethium 2 8 18 32 21 9 2
55.845
Rhenium
Seaborgium
144.242
92
44
(98.0)
183.84
Neodymium
transparent ceramics
efractory metals
Nd
2 8 18 13 2
Technetium
Tungsten
Dubnium
60
26
54.938045
anti-ballistic ceramics 2 8 18 19 9 2
2 8 13 2
Manganese
Molybdenum
180.9488
105
25
Chromium
Tantalum 2 8 18 32 32 10 2
2 8 13 1
2 4
Carbon
Aluminum
ultralight aerospace alloys
92.90638
178.48
2 8 18 32 18 9 2
2 8 11 2
Niobium
Hafnium
Actinium
58
MBE
V
Zirconium
Lanthanum 2 8 18 32 18 8 2
23
47.867
Yttrium
2 8 18 18 8 2
2 8 10 2
Titanium
88.90585
137.327
2 8 18 32 18 8 1
22
44.955912
Barium
Fr
2 8 9 2
Scandium
87.62
Cesium
(223)
2 8 18 8 2
Strontium
132.9054
87
21
40.078
85.4678
55
2 8 8 2
Calcium
Rubidium
B
6
10.811
electrochemistry
nanodispersions
2 3
Boron
13
2 8 2
isotopes
39.0983
Potassium
37
5
silicon rods
copper nanoparticles
9.012182
Beryllium
22.98976928
19
Be
2 2
99.999% ruthenium spheres
6.941
Lithium
2
organometallics
1.00794
Hydrogen
diamond micropowder
III-IV semiconductors
additive manufacturing
1
buckyballs
glassy carbon
europium phosphors alternative energy
nickel foam
thin film
Now Invent!
metallocenes
li-ion battery electrolytes
InAs
Ti-6Al-4V
Š 2001-2019. American Elements is a U.S.Registered Trademark