Formaldehyde, commonly used in plywood adhesives, is a volatile organic compound (VOC) with potential health risks. Various countries have established strict standards for formaldehyde emissions in plywood and wood-based panels to ensure safety and environmental compliance. Here’s an overview of formaldehyde standards in key regions:
United States: CARB Phase 2 and TSCA Title VI Compliance
- Regulation Body: California Air Resources Board (CARB).
- Standard: Since March 22, 2019, all hardwood plywood sold or manufactured in the U.S. must comply with TSCA Title VI.
- Emission Limit:
- Hardwood plywood with veneer or composite cores: ≤0.005 ppm (parts per million).
- Compliance: Products must carry a label indicating TSCA Title VI compliance, ensuring they meet the mandated emission standards.
Europe: EN Standards and E.LES
- Regulation Body: EN 13986:2004 governs factory production control for wood-based panels.
- Emission Grades:
- E1 Grade: ≤0.124 mg/m³ (widely accepted as the standard for low emissions).
- E2 Grade: >0.124 mg/m³ (rarely used due to stricter regulations).
- European Low Emission Standard (E.LES):
- OSB and fibreboard: ≤0.1 ppm (same as E1).
- Particleboard and plywood: ≤0.065 ppm (stricter than E1).
Japan: JAS 4-Star Formaldehyde Rating
- Regulation Body: Japanese Agricultural Standard (JAS).
- Emission Grades:
- F☆: >0.12 mg/m²·h.
- F☆☆: ≤0.12 mg/m²·h and >0.02 mg/m²·h.
- F☆☆☆: ≤0.02 mg/m²·h and >0.005 mg/m²·h.
- F☆☆☆☆: ≤0.005 mg/m²·h (most stringent standard).
- Key Note: F☆☆☆☆ is equivalent to “no formaldehyde added” plywood, making it a preferred choice in sensitive environments like schools and homes.
China: GB/T 39600-2021 Standard
- Latest Update: Replaces GB 18580-2017.
- Emission Grades:
- E1 Grade: ≤0.124 mg/m³ (aligned with European E1).
- E0 Grade: ≤0.050 mg/m³ (stricter than E1).
- ENF (Extremely Low Formaldehyde): ≤0.025 mg/m³ (among the world’s strictest standards).
- Changes: The new standard introduced E0 and ENF grades while eliminating E2, signaling a move towards greener production practices.
Global Comparisons
- Stringency: The ENF grade in China and the F☆☆☆☆ grade in Japan represent the highest standards, significantly reducing formaldehyde exposure.
- Applications: High-grade panels (e.g., E0, F☆☆☆☆, and ENF) are increasingly used in residential and commercial projects where air quality and health are critical.
- Global Trend: Countries are moving toward stricter emission limits, emphasizing sustainable and eco-friendly plywood production.
Conclusion
Understanding formaldehyde standards is crucial for manufacturers, exporters, and consumers alike. Each region’s standards reflect its commitment to health and environmental protection. For international projects, selecting plywood that meets or exceeds these standards ensures compliance, safety, and long-term performance.