The regulatory landscape for water-based coatings is changing—and coatings that contain aminomethyl propanol (such as AMP 90/95) as a neutralizing agent are gradually coming into focus.
What’s changing with aminopropanol?
Aminomethylpropanol, which is commonly used in water-based coatings for pH regulation and dispersion, is increasingly drawing the attention of regulatory authorities in Europe. In December 2025, ECHA’s Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC) adopted an opinion proposing that aminomethyl propanol be classified as Rep. 1B.
This potential regulation specifically concerns aminomethylpropanol—not aminopropanol derivatives in general. Should this classification become legally binding, products containing aminomethylpropanol would be subject to restrictions—particularly under the EU Ecolabel program, which excludes substances classified as CMR Category 1B.
The practical implications are still uncertain: There are currently no binding legal provisions, and the timeline for regulation remains unclear. However, experience shows that reformulation takes time—identifying, testing, and validating an alternative can take months. Therefore, it is advisable to begin evaluating alternatives early on, rather than being under pressure later.
What requirements must compliant alternatives meet?
The key performance criteria for a compliant alternative remain unchanged: zero VOC content, no labeling requirements for hazardous substances, high co-dispersion performance, compatibility with Ecolabel-certified formulations, and a low-odor profile.
Multifunctional neutralizing additives that combine pH control with dispersion stability and corrosion resistance offer the most efficient path forward—they reduce the complexity of the ingredients while maintaining or improving the formulation’s performance.
CASPERSE H35 by CAS Additives
Our supplier, CAS Additives, offers the perfect solution with CASPERSE H35, which was specifically developed to address these challenges in the formulation of water-based coatings:
CASPERSE H35 is the latest addition to the product line; it is free of aminomethylpropanol and offers high neutralizing power without the regulatory uncertainty currently associated with aminopropanol derivatives. It is characterized by strong co-dispersion performance, improved abrasion and corrosion resistance, and a very low-odor profile.
So if you would like to test compliant alternatives in advance, we would be happy to assist you and, if needed, provide you with the relevant technical documentation and samples.