RDE 243 - Development of Environmental Assessment Levels for Substances Emitted

Amine-based systems used in PCC release small quantities of spent solvent and their transformation products to air under normal operating conditions.

These chemical emissions are an important consideration in the application for an environmental permit, and the EA relies on EALs to identify and mitigate potential operational risks through the permitting process.

Operators are required to review the scientific evidence on adverse health effects of their potential atmospheric emissions, based on suitable EALs.

In order to support industry in this task, the EA has recently published air-based EALs for two amines linked to PCC technologies, monoethanolamine (MEA) and Nnitrosodimethylamine (NDMA).

The EALs were derived using our updated methodology, Page 5 of 16 Version 2.0 LIT 58468 in accordance with advice from the UK Public Health Security Agency (UKHSA) (formerly Public Health England) (see link in Section 5.2 below).

However, it is recognized that many other amine-based solvents, and their breakdown products, could be used by PCC technologies, and these also require assessment and EAL development.

This additional work will allow the EA to assess permit applications and ensure public safety.

This contract was awarded by EA.