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National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Reinforced Plastic Composites Production (Subpart WWWW) – Issued 4/21/2003 |
On April 21, 2003, EPA issued the final MACT rule for reinforced plastic composites (RPC) production facilities. The exact text of the rule can be found at the following link: http://www.epa.gov/ttn/atw/rpc/rpcpg.html. RPC facilities produce products such as fiberglass bath tubs and showers, automobile vehicle parts, storage tanks, ladders, and many more items. The main HAP of concern at RPC facilities is styrene, which is present in resins and gel coats. EPA estimates that there are over 400 major RPC plants that will be affected by this rule. Existing major sources will be required to incorporate pollution-prevention techniques in their production processes, including using raw materials containing low amounts of air toxics, non-atomized resin application, and covering open resin baths and tanks. These requirements will also apply to new RPC sources that have a potential to emit less than 100 tons per year. New large facilities (greater than 100 tpy), will be required to install air pollution control equipment.
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