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Polyether Polyols Production: National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP)

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Rule Summary

Polyether polyols are used in making lubricants, adhesives, sealants, cosmetics, soaps, and feedstock polymers for urethanes production. Air toxics can be emitted at several points along the manufacturing process.

The hazardous air pollutants (HAP) emitted by the facilities producing polyether polyols include ethylene oxide (EO), propylene oxide (PO), hexane, toluene, and incidental emissions of several other HAP. Some of these pollutants are considered to be probable human carcinogens when inhaled, and all can cause toxic effects following exposure.

The rule is estimated to reduce emissions of these pollutants by 1,810 Megagrams per year (Mg/yr) (2,000 tons per year (tons/yr)).

See the regulations below for more details.

Rule History

03/27/2014 - Final Rule

03/21/2012 - Reopening of public comment period

01/09/2012 - Proposed Rule

07/01/2004 - Correction

07/06/2000 - Withdrawal of amendment in direct final rule

06/01/1999 - Final rule

03/09/1999 - Proposed rule; Amendments

11/12/1997 - Reopening of public comment period

10/20/1997 - Proposed rule; correction

09/04/1997 - Proposed rules and notice of public hearing

Additional Resources

Polyether Polyols Production Presumptive MACT (P-MACT)

Basis and Purpose Document for Proposed Standards

Economic Impact Analysis (EIA) for the Proposed Polyether Polyols NESHAP

Polyether Polyols Production BID for Final Rule - Summary of Public Comments

Fact Sheets for Polyether Polyols Production NESHAP

View the supporting documents in the docket folder to find additional related documents to this rule. Exit

Compliance

Implementation Document for the Polyether Polyols Production NESHAP (40 CFR 63, Subpart PPP)