Silver and zinc zeolite approved as an active substance for use in biocidal products of types 2, 7, and 9, in accordance with BPR
The active substance will be approved on March 1, 2026.
The product types for which silver and zinc zeolite is approved are:
- Disinfectants and algaecides not intended for direct application to humans or animals (Product Type 2)
- Film preservatives (Product Type 7)
- Protectors for fibers, leather, rubber, and polymerized materials (Product Type 9)
The substance is commonly used to treat polymers to achieve an antimicrobial effect. The substance achieves the desired antimicrobial effect by interacting with the cell membrane of microorganisms. It interferes with electron transport processes, binds to nucleic acids, inhibits enzymes, and catalyzes reactive oxygen species.
What to do now?
Companies wishing to continue marketing their biocidal products based on silver and zinc zeolite must:
- Have an authorized supplier of the active substance in the EU.
- Have their products notified or registered in accordance with the transitional regulations applicable in each EU Member State.
- Submit an application for product authorization in accordance with the BPR Regulation before the approval date.
Marketing as a biocidal product
The authorization of biocides is subject to the following conditions:
- Thorough evaluation: When evaluating these products, special attention will be paid to potential risks to human health and the environment, as well as their effectiveness in all proposed uses.
- Restrictions for polymers: The use of these biocides in plastic materials that may come into direct contact with the skin, especially in young children, will be prohibited.
- Restrictions for textiles: Textiles treated with these biocides cannot come into contact with the skin, be handled in damp conditions, or be within reach of young children who put objects in their mouths.
- Mandatory labeling: The competent authorities will establish the instructions for use and the necessary precautions that must appear on the labels of the treated products, in accordance with current regulations.
Marketing of treated articles
The marketing of products treated with silver and zinc zeolite is subject to the following restrictions:
- Prohibition for certain materials: The sale of plastic materials treated with these biocides is prohibited if they may come into direct contact with the skin, especially in young children.
- Restrictions for textiles: Treated textiles cannot be marketed if they can come into contact with the skin, be handled in damp conditions, or be within reach of young children.
- Information on the label: Manufacturers of these products must include on the labels all the necessary information to ensure safe and responsible use, in accordance with current regulations.
Do you need to prepare an authorization application for your biocides? Nordiik can help you, contact us!
Source: EUR-Lex
Download the approval document here: OJ_L_202402635_EN_TXT
