Consolidated applications for multiple chemicals and similarity criteria

We use the term primary chemical to describe the first chemical you’re introducing when you introduce 2 or more new chemicals with similar properties and same end uses.

We use the term additional chemical to describe every chemical you’re introducing beyond the first when you introduce 2 or more new chemicals with similar properties and same end uses.

If you meet the criteria, you pay a full fee for the primary chemical and reduced fees for the additional chemicals. You’ll get an assessment certificate for each chemical. See our fees and charges.

What types of chemicals does the application cover?

This application can cover most types of chemicals, including polymers and inseparable mixtures of similar chemicals.

Are you introducing a group of polymers?

If you are introducing a group of polymers and wish to make a consolidated application, these polymers have to meet our similar polymer criteria instead of similar chemical criteria.

What are the similarity criteria?

Depending on whether you are introducing chemicals or polymers, you have to prove similarity in the relevant group of criteria, relating to either:

• similar chemical, including chemical properties and toxicity
• similar polymer, including chemical properties and toxicity

You’ll have to be sure the end uses of the additional chemicals are the same as for the primary chemical. If they’re different, they don’t fit into this type of application.

What’s a similar chemical?

The physico-chemical and toxicological properties must be similar to the primary chemical. This means:

• substructures that might play a critical functional role must be the same
• GHS classifications must be the same
• molecular properties must be the same or you must expect them to be the same
• molecular weight must be similar
• the octanol-water partition coefficient must be within 50-200% of the primary chemical
• the toxicity profile must be unaffected by differences in chemical identity

What’s a similar polymer?

Similar polymers must be 1 of the following:

• contains 1 polymer constituent less than the primary polymer
• contains 1 polymer constituent different to the primary polymer
  • the polymer constituent should be similar to the substituted constituent in the primary polymer
• structurally identical to the primary polymer, but have a different manufacturing method

Similar polymers must also have:

• the same linkages and functional groups
• water solubility within the range of 50-200% of the primary polymer
• no changes in identity that changes toxicity profile 

The following can be similar chemicals:

• salts of the primary chemical
• positional isomers
• stereoisomers

What information do I need to provide and keep?

In addition to the information for an assessment certificate, you’ll need to provide and keep records of the following:

• introduction details about the chemicals or polymers
• information about anything affecting human health and the environment
• evidence that the chemicals or polymers have the same end uses
• evidence that the chemicals or polymers meet similar chemical criteria or similar polymer criteria

After you submit your application

We’ll review your application and contact you if we need more information. You can also track and view the outcome of your application in AICIS Business Services.