United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of
Toxic Substances
Washington, DC 20460
EPA 560/13-80-034a
August 1980.
vvEPA
Toxic Substances
Chemical Use
Standard
System (ChemUSES)
Volume 1
Introduction and Instructions
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CHEMICAL USE STANDARD
ENCODING SYSTEM (ChemUSES)
Volume I — Introduction and Instructions
Final Report
July 1980
EPft 560/0,3*80-G34a
Prepared by:
Steven L. Wilhelm
John N. Gevertz
Jon J. Kaufman
Office of Pesticides and Toxic Substances
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
401 M Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20460
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PREFACE
The purpose of the Chemical Use Standard Encoding System (ChemUSES)
is to provide a standard format and nomenclature for use in collecting
and exchanging information about chemical uses. ChemUSES is a system
for describing a chemical use by the function the chemical serves and
the setting or application in which it serves that function. For exam-
ple, a chemical use could be described as a solvent (function) in paints
(application). ChemUSES thus consists of a list of function terms and a
list of application terms. ChemUSES also includes user instructions and
user aids.
ChemUSES is presented in four volumes:
I User Instructions
II Function List and Index
III Application List and Index
IV User Aids
Volume I describes the purposes of ChemUSES and gives directions for
using the system. Volume II presents a list of terms that describe
chemical functions and an index to the function list. Volume III pre-
sents a list of terms for describing the products and activities in our
economy that represent potential applications for chemicals. Volume III
also includes an index to the applications list. Volume IV presents
aids for using ChemUSES. These user aids consist of (1) a table that
relates the ChemUSES application list to the SIC system, (2) a list of
examples of application/function combinations, and (3) a list of func-
tion/application combinations.
xix
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Acknowledgement s
ChemUSES was developed by the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of
Pesticides and Toxic Substances. Mr. Steven L. Wilhelm was the EPA Technical
Monitor for this study until 4 April 1980, when Mr. John N. Gevertz became the
Technical Monitor. Mr. Wilhelm, Mr. Gevertz, and Mr. Jon J. Kaufman, all in "
the EPA Office of Pesticides and Toxic Substances, played an active role in
the study. They defined the objectives of ChemUSES, contributed ideas for
constructing the lists, identified sets of terms to be included, reviewed and
commented on the work in progress, and prepared the introduction and
instructions contained in this volume. '
This study was conducted primarily in the Center for Resource and
Environmental Systems Studies (CRESS) and the Chemical Industries Division
(CIO) of SRI International. Dr. Stephen L. Brown, Director of CRESS, was the
project supervisor. Mr. Richard L. Goen, also of CRESS, was the project
leader.
Dr. Eugene C. Coyner (CID) led the work on the Function List, the Function
List Index, the chemicals section of the Application List, and the
application/function combinations lists. Dr. Thomas Gibson (CID) also played
a major role in those activities, and Mr. Arnold J. MiHard (CID) participated
in preparation of the Function List. Dr. Coyner and Dr. Gibson also
contributed to the paper and petroleum sections of the Application List. Dr.
Kirtland E. McCaleb and Ms. Janet R. Hardy both of CID, participated in
development of the function index. Dr. McCaleb also participated in planning
the study effort.
Mr. Goen and Dr. Robert V. Steele were primarily responsible for development
of the Application List (exclusive of the chemicals section) and the
application index. Several other SRI staff members who are experts on the
industries represented in certain sections of the Application List also
contributed to the development of those sections. In particular, Mr. James C.
Croudace (Forest Products Industries Department) contributed to the sections
on wood products and paper; Mr. Eugene Thiers (Minerals and Metals Center) to
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the mining and metals section; Mr. Gerald Shroff (Mechanical and Electrical
Industries Department) to the machinery and electrical and electronic
equipment sections; and Mr. Philip D. Uinholtz (Mechanical and Electrical
Industries Department) to the transportation equipment section.
Dr. Oliver W. Whitby (Computer Science and Technology Division) led the data
processing activities and developed the procedures for preparing the
indexes. Mr. Robert L. Gofer (CRESS) conducted the initial programming and
data file manipulation. Ms. Karen A. Suttinger (CRESS) performed the initial
data entry. Ms. Reddy Dively (Computer Science and Technology Division)
developed the format for the lists, edited the lists, and entered the data and
changes. Mr. John F. Whitby (Computer Resources Group) developed special
programs for the indexing and for generating check digits.
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CONTENTS
PREFACE iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS . . . . . . v
I. INTRODUCTION . 1
II. INSTRUCTIONS 9
III. ChemUSES CHECKLIST . 27
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Introduction
I. Purpose
The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) *, which became effective on
January 1, 1977, gives the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
responsibility for regulating chemical substances "whose manufacture,
processing, distribution in commerce, use, or disposal may present an
unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment."
TSCA authorizes EPA to collect from manufacturers, importers, or
processors of chemical substances certain types of data,.including information
on uses or use categories in which these chemical substances are employed. In
order to carry out this mandate, the Agency has developed the Chemical Use
Standard Encoding System (ChemUSES). ChemUSES provides a standard format and
nomenclature for use in collecting and exchanging information about chemical
uses.
The standard format and nomenclature provided by ChemUSES will enable EPA
to make more efficient and effective use of the information it obtains. It
will also aid EPA in meeting its TSCA responsibility of improving coordination
between the several Federal agencies concerned with chemicals and health by
facilitating computer storage and retrieval of use information.
II. History
EPA's development of a use classification system began prior to passage
of TSCA in October 1976. The Agency carefully evaluated the ability of
existing classification systems to classify information required under TSCA.
Systems that were evaluated by the Agency include the following:
Standard Industrial Classification Manual, Office of Management and
Budget, 1972.
Numerical List of Manufactured Produces, Bureau of the Census, 1973.
Tariff Schedules of the U.S., Annotated, U.S. International Trade
Commission, 1975.
- Schedule A—Commodities Imported into the U.S., Bureau of the
Census, 1960.
USC 2601 et.seg.
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Schedule B--Commodities Exported from the U.S., Bureau of the
Census, 1971 (with revisions through 1975).
Classified Index of Industries and Occupations, Bureau of the
Census, 1971.
U.S. Foreign Trade Statistics: Classifications and Cross-
Classifications, 1974, Bureau of the Census.
- Standard International Trade Classification, Revised, United
Nations, 1961.
- Nomenclature for the Classification of Goods in Customs Tariffs
(Brussels Tariff Nomenclature), Customs Cooperation Council
(Brussels), 1955.
International Standard Industrial Classification of all Economic
Activities, United Nations, 1968.
Commodity Classification for Transporation Statistics, Office of
Management and Budget, 1972.
List of Materials Consumption Items, Bureau of the Census, 1972.
Federal Supply Classification, Defense Supply Agency, 1975.
Although some systems were valuable in the development of ChemUSES, the
Agency concluded that no single existing system could meet the special
requirements for a use classification system to support TSCA. As a
consequence EPA developed this classification system.
In the course of developing a use classification system the Agency
published a Chemical Use List in the Federal Register* and solicited public
comment on the applicability, utility, and technical merit of the some 850 use
terms that were included in the List. Concerns expressed by EPA staff
staff members and public comments received in response to publication led EPA
to ask SRI International to evaluate the system. The results of this work
were published by EPA in June 1979 as Report No. 560/12-79-007, "An Analysis
of the EPA Chemical Use Classification System and the OTS Exposure Estimation
Methodology."
243 FR 32222, July 25, 1978
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After reviewing this analysis and considering additional comments from a
variety of sources, EPA decided that the concept of the Use List remained
sound, but that considerable improvements were needed to make it into an
effective tool for systematically classifying chemical uses.
The new ChemUSES is greatly changed. It consists of the following
elements:
\ :
1. Function List with scope notes,
2. Index to the Function List,
3. Application List with scope notes,
4. Index to the Application List,
5. Table showing the relationships between the ChemUSES Application
List and the SIC system,
6. List of functions associated with selected application terms,
7. List of applications associated with each function term.
III. Design and Philosophy
A complete and detailed description of a single chemical use could fill a
small volume. Therefore, it is a challenging task to describe a chemical use
adequately in a few words or phrases. For purposes of ChemUSES, "use" is
defined in terms of two parameters, function and application.
The function of a chemical is described in a single word (or small group
of words) which identifies the purpose the chemical serves. Examples are
"solvents", "dyes", and "gelling agents." Similarly the application of a
chemical is described by a single word (or small group of words) which
identifies the setting in which the chemical is used. Examples are "dry
cleaning operations", "industrial finishes", .and "inks." A use is defined
when both the function and application are specified.
ChemUSES is composed of two lists of terms: the Function List and the
Application List. Terms from these lists are selected to describe functions
and applications. This approach describes a chemical use simply and conforms
to commonly accepted notions about the nature of chemical use information.
EPA sought to develop a system that could capture a level of detail " \
consistent with the Agency's intended use. The two-parameter system will
provide EPA with sufficiently detailed use descriptions at an affordable
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development and maintenance cost. Such a scheme will also reduce the time and
cost involved in reporting.
Most important, the two parameter system is easy to use. It was designed
to be used by persons with limited technical expertise. This was necessary
due to the variety of backgrounds and professions of the people who will use
the system. Even in a two parameter system, there are some complications in
selecting the appropriate function and application terms. Becoming familar
with this system is the biggest difficulty to overcome. The two lists, their
indexes, the other user aids, and the instructions will require some study.
In designing the user aids and instructions every effort has been made to make
the system easy to grasp and simple to use.
The Function List was developed in accordance with the following
principles: .
o Structure
- No hierarchy of terms """
- Terms not arranged in alphabetical order
Cross-references appear only in the index, not in the Function
List ;: .
o Uniqueness
- Any function is referred to by only one term
- Each term refers to only one function
o Descriptions
Terms for functions applicable to a particular technology
include a parenthetical expression identifying that technology
Scope notes describe the terms concisely, and if necessary for
clarity, identify mechanisms of action or methods of
application
- Terms and scope notes use common industry terminology.
The absence of hierarchies in the Function List may help to prevent
substitution of a more general term for a more specific term. It also makes
the system less complicated. One reason for not arranging the terms in
alphabetical order is to permit addition of new terms without changing the
numbers of the old terms. The primary reason is to force the user to refer to
the index and thus to examine the cross-references. Cross-references appear
only in the index, to permit simplification of the instructions and easier and
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more accurate use of the Function List. The only way to ensure that the most
accurate function term is selected is to refer to the Function List Index.
The Function List contains 385 terms, including 46 terms designated as
general terms. The general terms are intended for use only if an appropriate
and more specific term is not available. The scope notes were developed to
i
aid in making the terms conform with common industry terminology, and to
eliminate ambiguity. They also clarify words that might be unfamiliar, by
identifying mechanisms of action or methods of application when necessary.
The Function List Index contains extensive cross-references of the
following three types:
(1) For all terms in the Function List: "See also" the related terms
that are also in the list.
(2) For general terms in the Function List: "Use more specific term if
appropriate," with a list of the specified terms.
(3) For terms not, in the Function list: "See" related terms that are in
the list. ^X
In cross-references to a general function term, we replaced the number of
the general term with the words "general term" so that the user would have to
look it up in the index and thus be exposed to the related specific terms.
Index terms that are in the Function^List have the initial letter
capitalized; others do not. These terms can also be readily distinguished
from the terms in the Function List by the absence of a function number.
The Application List is basically a new list, though it was derived in
part from the Standard Industrial Classification Code (SIC). Like the SIC,
the Application List is hierachically arranged. Many ChemUSES application
terms have the same first two digits as related SIC terms. A detailed
explanation of the correlation is presented in the user aid titled
"Relationship of the ChemUSES Application List to the SIC Code."
The Application List describes the products and activities of our
economy. The list provides a standard system for classifying the context in
which chemicals are used. We developed the list with a hierarchical structure
to provide a way of describing uses at the appropriate level of detail.
We included scope notes for terms, when it was necessary to clarify what
the term encompasses. The Application List may be used sometimes without
reference to the Index. Therefore, cross-references have been included in
/
some of the scope notes to indicate the location of related terms.
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During development of the system, it became obvious that each category
could not appropriately contain the same number of levels. Because many
related terms do not occur close to each other in the list, use of the
Application List Index may be necessary in order to identify related terms.
Reliance on the hierarchical nature of the Application List alone may lead to
errors in describing uses.
Different kinds of hierarchical structures were developed for Application
List categories. Three types of hierarchies can be distinguished:
(1) Product classes and products
(2) Basic products and converted products
(3) Products and activities.
Furniture is an example of a two-digit group that can be logically
structured only by product class (e.g., office furniture) and product (e.g.,
desks). Paper products is an example of a group that divides into basic
products and converted products. The basic products in the Paper sector are
pulp, paper, and paperboard, with subclasses of products in each. The
converted product group can be divided into converted paper products and
converted paperboard products such as notebook paper and dress boxes. An
example of a sector that logically divides into products and activities (or
processes) is petroleum refining. Processes include distillation and
catalytic cracking. Products include gasoline and jet fuel. In this and
similar cases, the activities (or processes) cannot be uniquely associated
with a single product. In most of the other manufacturing sectors, the
"activity" is the manufacture of the product itself.
In some two-digit categories the SIC structure was largely followed, but
other categories reflect substantial departures. In particular, an effort was
made to avoid classifications that would permit listing a product in two or
more different categories. The SIC system is structured by type of
establishment, and frequently the same product may be produced in different
types of establishments. For example, in the SIC, sweaters are listed under N
both Textile Mill Products and Apparel. We separated these categories into
the two categories of (1) basic textiles and (2) apparel and other fabricated
textile products.
The major use of chemicals is to make other chemicals and chemical
products. Hence the chemicals section of the Applications List is of
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particular importance, and special attention was devoted to the development of
that part of the list.
The basic inorganic and organic chemicals presented the major
difficulties in structuring the chemicals section. One problem was in
specifying a clear distinction between organic and inorganic chemicals.
Consideration was given to classifying all chemicals containing carbon as
organic, in order to provide an unambiguous distinction. However, that
classification rule would have led to classifying as organic compounds such as
carbon dioxide and carbonates that are commonly considered inorganic.
Therefore, all chemicals containing carbon were classified organic except
those commonly considered inorganic. Exceptions are indicated in the scope
note.
Another major problem was to develop a hierarchical structure for the
basic chemicals that would provide a unique category for each chemical. To
achieve that objective, basic organic chemicals were divided into the
following composition categories: (1) hyrdrocarbons, (2) monofunctional
organic compounds, (3) heterocycles, and (4) polyfunctional organic chemicals.
During development of ChemUSES, EPA came to realize that there was no
practical limit to the detail involved in describing many applications. The
application area of paints, for example, could be subdivided into dozens of
different types of paints. These could be further subdivided according to
method of application, type of pigment, etc. Eventually, continued
subdivision becomes impractical. The Application List alone could easily have
grown-to more than 20,000 terms, and with cross-references and synonyms, the
index to the Application List could have surpassed 100,000 entries.
However, the problem remained that chemical use information is very
x.
frequently known in finer detail than can be handled by.a list of a few
thousand terms. Nearly as often, this additional detail is useful or even
critical to accurate and adequate understanding of chemical uses. To resolve
this problem, EPA added a narrative section to ChemUSES. In this section, a
respondent may submit a limited amount of narrative information in addition to
the basic function/application description of a use. Use of narrative
information is explained in detail in the Instructions section.
ChemUSES will never be complete. Each aspect of ChemUSES was designed to
allow for potential expansion and improvement. Expansion of ChemUSES should
not result in the addition of thousands of very detailed terms. Some new
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terms, similar in detail to the current ones, may be necessary due to
innovation in the chemical and allied industries, or due to initial oversights
in developing ChemUSES.
Finally, it should be noted that the Function List and the Application
List are not developed in certain areas, such as pesticides and cosmetics,
which are not regulated under TSCA. Limited treatment of such areas appear in
one or both of the lists, to serve the purpose of holding a place in the list
as a "reserved" category* Should ChemUSES be adopted by other Federal
agencies, as hoped, these sections will be expanded.
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INSTRUCTIONS
This section contains descriptions of each of the components of ChetnUSES
and instructions for their use. The Function and Application Lists and their
indexes are described first, followed by the user aids. Finally, specific
instructions for developing chemical use descriptions are given.
A chemical use is defined as a combination of a function and an
application. A chemical function is described in a single word or small
groups of words which identifies the purpose the chemical serves. Examples
are "solvents", "dyes" and "dust control agents". The application of a
chemical is the activity or product in which the chemical is used. The
application is also described by a single word or small group of words chosen
from the terms on the Application List. Examples are "Inks", "Metal cans" and
"Dry cleaning operations".
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I. FUNCTIONS
A. The Function List and Scope Notes
, The Function List contains 385 terms. The order of terms on the Function
List is intentionally random. Each term on the list is followed by a scope
note that contains explanatory or descriptive information. These scope notes
are user aids, not technical definitions of terms.
The scope notes state whether a function term is one of the small number
of general terms included. General terms are to be used only when a more
specific description of the function or functions is not appropriate.
Specific terms should be used for the most part, even if several such terras in
a general category must be listed.
B. The Function List Index
The entries in the Function List Index consist of terms from the Function
List, as well as referral or locator entries. Each term from the Function
List appears in the index with its code number. For each valid function term,
cross-references to related valid terms are given by "see also..." entries;
e.g., "see also Sequestrants" appears after "Chelating agents." Synonyms and
closely related terms that do not appear on the Function List may not be used
as ChemUSES codes; they appear in the index to assist users in identifying
valid function terms. Every non-valid term is followed by "see" and one or
more cross-references to valid function terms, e.g., "see Film-forming Agents"
is listed as a cross-reference under the synonym entry "Binders."
i - .
Index terms that are in the Function List have their initial letters
capitalized. These terms also have a ChemUSES code number in the left
margin. Non-valid terms are neither capitalized nor numbered.
When a general term appears on the Function List it is followed by the
statement, "use more specific term if appropriate" and, then, the specific
terms. When a general term appears as either a "see" or "see also" reference,
it is followed by the phrase "general term" instead of the ChemUSES code
number. The user should then refer to the general' term in the index to note
whether any of the specific terms listed under the general term are
appropriate.
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I
C» Selecting a Function Term
The function of the chemical should be expressed as one of the terras in
the Function List. To use the Function List Index to select a valid function
terra, begin by identifying possible function descriptors in your own
terminology. One or more of these terms should appear in the Index. If not,
attempt to identify more specific or more general terras. Select the Index
entry or entries that best match the function being described. Using the
ChemUSES code numbers, look for valid terms on the Function List and use the
scope notes to select the most appropriate term(s).
As an example, suppose that a respondent manufactures hydroxy-
ethylcellulose to be used as a thickener in interior latex trade sale
paints. The user examining the Function List Index to see if "Thickeners" is
a valid function term, or whether a related term would better describe the
chemical's function. If there are related terms, they should be listed under
"Thickeners".
"Thickeners" is a valid function term and is assigned the number 272.
Therefore, one can next look for the term in the numerically ordered Function
List, and read the scope note. The user should also look up the related terras
"Emulsifiers", "Gelling agents", "Thixotropic agents", and "Viscosity
adjusters". Because the user knows that the chemical does not perform its
function in textile technology there is no need to look up the related term
"Vat printing assistants (textile technology)".
After examining the scope notes for all related terms, the user should
choose the term which best describes the function the chemical serves. In
this case, it may be assumed that "Thickeners" was the best term. The
respondent should note both the Function term and its code number. This
example will be continued in the section of the instructions which deals with
selection of application terms.
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II. APPLICATIONS
A. The Application List and Scope Notes
The Application List contains several thousand terms at five levels of
hierarchical detail. Products, processes, and other activities are all
potential applications.
The least specific level of hierarchy contains such broad terras as
"Chemicals" and "Machinery." These terms will rarely, if ever, appear in use
descriptions. They are included to clarify the organization of the list.
Each of these categories is divided into several sub-categories which are then
subdivided, and so on—up to a fifth level of hierarchy, when necessary—to
reach an appropriate level of detail. Terms at the same level of the
hierarchy, but at different locations in the list are not necessarily
comparable in detail.
Many terms on the Application List are followed by scope notes that
contain explanatory, descriptive or instructional material. In the majority
of cases, the scope note is intended to clarify what the term encompasses
and/or provide an illustrative list. None of the scope notes should be
thought of as definitions or exhaustive lists. Some Application terms are
self-explanatory and no scope note is provided. When selecting a term from
the Application List, the most specific term available should be used rather
than a less specific term.
The Application List is numbered by assigning two digits to each level of
the hierarchy. Each pair of digits is separated from the next by a decimal
point. For example, 04.03.02.01 denotes a term at the fourth level of
hierarchy, and 04.03.02 denotes the less specific term at the third level.
Care must be taken in transcribing the codes to ensure that digits are not
inadvertently deleted or transposed.
To reduce the likelihood of transcription errors, a "check digit" has been
added to the end of each code number. A check digit is a number which the
computer can decipher to "check" for errors in transcribing code numbers. The
check digit is preceeded by a hyphen. While the check digit does not reflect
the Application List hierarchy, it is an intergral part of the code number and
must not be left off when recording the number.
Many instances occur when a term or group of terms could be located in
more than one place on the list. Such occurences are unavoidable due to the
complexities and overlaps of industries, products, and processes. While
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duplicative entries have been eliminated, closely related terms do not always
appear in the same section of the list. Thus, use of the Application List
Index is recommended to ensure that the most appropriate term is selected.
Application terms are basically of two types that may be called "products"
and "activities". Products are generally items that can be purchased, such as
"Laundry detergents," "Wire springs" or "Storage batteries". Activities are
processes or services, such as "Automobile repair" or "Medical services". The
distinction between these two types of terms is not always clear. First, all
"product-type" Application terms have a dual meaning. They refer both to the
product and to the activity of manufacturing or processing that product. In
making "Steel castings" in foundaries one uses steel. The steel is
incorporated in the final product. Thus, "Steel castings" refers to the
product. However, other chemicals are used in foundry operations, such as
binders for making sand casting molds. Such chemicals are not part of the
final product, and thus are not used in steel castings in the same sense that
;el is. In this case, the application term refers to the activity of making
:eel castings." In general, if a chemical is not intentionally incorporated
in the end product to perform a function, it should be specified as serving in
the activity.
An analogous situation exists for many "activity-type" terms. They may
indicate either an activity or a product used in conducting that activity.
Whenever there might be some confusion regarding products or activities
the user is requested to append an "A" to the Application term code number to
designate an activity, or a "P" to designate a product. For example,
"30.01.02-3P'Tires and innertubes" implies that the application is in the
product tires, whereas "30.01.02-3A Tires and innertubes" implies that the
application refers to manufacturing tires. The need to make such distinctions
should not arise.^often. It will usually be necessary when the user desires to
specify whether or-not the chemical substance is intentionally incorporated in
the final product.
B.,. The Application List Index
The Application'List Index contains valid terms from the Application List,
well as some,common synonyms. Because of the length and hierarchical
Vature of the Application List, not all terms on the List appear on the
Index. Terms that contain identical first words, or similar roots do not all
I!
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appear on the Index. For example, "Clothing" appears in the Index, but ,
"Clothing, Men's" and "Clothing, Women's do not appear. This is because the
entry "Clothing" refers the user to the section containing both men and
women's clothing* However, "Men's clothing" and "Women's clothing" do appea
in the Index.
C. Selecting an Application Term
The application of the chemical should be described by one or more of th<
terms in the Application List at as detailed a level of the hierarchy as
possible. To find the appropriate term, look for ptential descriptor terras
in the Application List Index, and then find these terras on the Application
List. It may be necessary to try a variety of descriptors to find the propel
section of the list, and to examine all the scope notes in that section to
determine the most appropriate; term( s) . Also, examine the sections of the
Application List that contain cross-referenced terms and read any scope note
provided. This should make selection of the .most appropriate terra straight
forward.
Returning to the example used above, one can select an appropriate
application term for the use of hydroxyethylcellulose as a thickener in
paints. The user should first examine the Application List Index and check
for paints. The user is referred to both "(39.06.03.02-0) Paints, artists"
and "(28.08-6) Paints and Allied Products". Assuning the application is onl
in "Paints and allied products", the user should then refer to section 28.08
of the Application List. If, however, the thickener is also used in Artist'
paints, the user would be required to list both function and application
combinations as separate use descriptions.
The "Paints and allied products" section contains a variety of sub-
sections that must be examined in order to select the most accurate use
description. First, one must choose (at the next level of hierarchy) between
"(28.08.02.-7) Trade sales .finishes" and "(28.08.0272) Industrial finishes".
In this example, "Trade sale finishes" is selected,,
At the next level of detail, one must decide whether the Application is
"(28.08.01.01.-8) Exterior trade gale finishes", or "(28,08.01,02.-9 ) Interior
trade sale finishes". In this case, "Interior trade sale finishes" is
selected.
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Finally, one would specify the application term "(28.08.01.02.02-1) Water
based interior paints and enamels". Additional detail may be provided by
describing the application in the narrative section of the ChemUSES reporting
form, as will be discussed later.
It is possible that the application may not be known to the level of
detail described in the example. In these cases, the most specific
Application description which conforms with the user's knowledge should be
provided.
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III. THE USER AIDS
To assist individuals in searching the function and application lists for
appropriate terms, three user aids have been developed. The first, a parallel
table relating the Standard Industrial Classification Code to the Application
List, will be helpful for those familiar with the SIC system. The other us'er
aids are lists of common uses which indicate frequently encountered
combinations of functions and applications.
A. Relationship between the ChemUSES Application List and the SIC
The ChemUSES - SIC table is a simple parallel table that makes explicit
the relationship between the Application List and SIC codes. While the
Application List was developed in part from the SIC codes, many deviations
from the general organization of the SIC system were necessary. Because many
users are already familiar with the SIC system and are aware of the location
of an industrial section in the SIC hierarchy, knowledge of SIC codes may^e
valuable in using the Application List.
The table is arranged by SIC codes and terms, which appear in the left
column. In the right column appears information indicating where the
industrial segment or its products may be located in the Application List.
Because of its simple organization according to SIC code numbers, use of this
table should be straight forward.
B. Application/Function and Function/Application Combinations
The purpose of the Application/Function and Function/Application lists is
to provide a starting place for determining what kinds of chemical functions
might be employed in a known application, or the converse. The two
combination lists also serve as examples that illustrate how to employ
ChemUSES to specify chemical uses.
Function terms are listed only for selected terms in the Application
List. For our purposes, a comprehensive listing of combinations is not
needed; nor would development of comprehensive lists be feasible. Many of the
application terms in the same section of the list will have a common set of
chemical functions. The Function/Application List is a list of all functions
followed by one or more related applications. Returning to the previous
example, the respondent may know that the chemical is used in paints, but does
not know the proper ChemUSES term for the function this substance serves. By
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locating "Paints and allied products" in the combination Application/Function
list, a list of common functions that chemicals perform in paints can be
examined.' Because the combination list is arranged numerically, the user must
first find.the valid Application code number. By examining the listed
function terms and comparing scope notes in the Function List, the user can
select the/appropriate function term.
If a user knows the function of the chemical, but not the proper ChemUSES
Application term, a review of the Function/Application combination list; should
provide assistance.
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IV. DEVELOPING A USE DESCRIPTION
This section provides specific guidance for building & use description by
combining function and application terms, and adding narrative material where
necessary. Instructions for handling simple cases are given first, followed
by instructions for uses which are slightly more complicated. Finally,
instructions for inclusion of narrative material are given. To understand
this section, the user must have reviewed the material presented in the
preceeding sections.
A. Basic Structure (F/A)
As noted in the Introduction, "use" is defined in ChemUSES as the function
a chemical serves and the application in which it serves that function. The
basic structure of a use description) is a function term preceded by its code
number and an application term preceded by its code number. The two terms are
separated by a slash* The example of methyl ethyl ketone used as a solvent in
paints would appear as:
(271) Solvent8/(28.08.01.02-9) Interior trade-sale finishes*
B. Function or Application Unknown
In some pases, a respondent will not know the setting in which a chemical
is used. In many cases, the respondent will be able to make use of the less
specific levels of hierarchy in the Application List. In pases where the
application is completely unknown, the code "(98) Application Unknown" may be
used*
It is less likely that a respondent will be unaware of the function a
chemical serves. However, for such cases, CheraUSES includes the category
"(980) Function Unknown."
C. Function or Application Not Found
Every effort has been taken to ensure that function and application terms
are provided for all uses of chemicals. With careful examination of the
indexes, appropriate terms should be found. However, should the respondent
remain unable to locate appropriate terms, the categories "(990) Function Not
Found" or "(99) Application Not Found" may be used*
If one of these categories is used, the respondent must also employ the
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narrative section (specific instructions are provided in Part J below). The
respondent should briefly describe the function or application in his/her own
words. A brief indication of why existing terms did not seem appropriate is
also suggested.
The EPA- will review all narrative material accompanying functions or
applications not found. The EPA may decide to add new terms or alter scope
notes in future editions of ChemUSES.
D. Multiple Functions (F-F/A)
Occasionally, a chemical, serves two or more purposes simultaneously in a
product, or may serve any of several functions depending on its concentration
or some other parameter. . An example of the latter is sodium nitrite which at
low concentrations serves as a preservative in meat products, but at higher
concentrations can also serve as a color enhancer.
ChemUSES permits specification of multiple function terms. The function
terms with their code numbers should be separated by hyphens. To use this
format, the proper application term must be identical for all of the function
terms. An example is the use of carbon black in automobile tires where it
serves as a.pigment and protects the rubber from ultraviolet degradation.
This use would be described as follows:
(125) Pigment. - (36) Ultraviolet absorber/(30.01,02-3) Tires and inner
tubes*
E. Multiple. Applications - Different Uses (F/A, F/A)
Frequently a chemical serves the .same purpose (function) in several
applications.' For purposes of ChemUSES these are considered separate uses and
are coded separately. . For example, acetone is a solvent in many applications
such as paints, adhesives, and patching fillers. These uses would be coded as
follows:
(271) Solvent/(28.08-6) Paints and allied products
(271) Solvent/US.13.02.02-5) Synthetic organic adhesives
(271) Solvent/US.01.03.04-6)Extender pigments and fillers.
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F. Multiple Applications: Activity-Product Combinations
In the nine sections of the Application List discussed below the user is
instructed to combine two application terms; one which describes an activity
and one which describes a product. The activity code number and term should
be listed first followed by a hyphen, then the product code number and terra.
If a substance functions in more than one activity or with regard to more than
one product, these uses should be coded separately.
In some instances, the user may know only that the substance functions in
the activity and be unaware of the products involved. Sirailarily, the user
may know only that a substance is involved in the production of one of the
products discussed below, but be unaware of the activity or process
involved. In these cases, the user should code only the known activity or
product.
1. (10) Mining
In this section, one shpuld specify an activity from "(10.07.) Mining and
related activities" and a product from the categories: "(10.01) Metallic
ores"; "(10.02) Oil and gas'1; "(10.04) Nonmetallic minerals"; or "(10.05)
Construction minerals". For instance, xanthates serves as collectors in the
beneficiation of zinc ore. This use would be coded as follows:
(283) Collectors/dO.07t04) Ore benefication - (10.01.04) Zinc ore.
2. (15) C ons true tion
In this category one should choose an activity from "(15.03) Special
construction activities", and, if appropriate, a product from "(15.01)
Building construction" or "(15.02) Construction other than buildings"* For
instance, methyl borate serves as a flame-retardant in insulation for.
residential housing. This use would be coded as follows:
(332) Flame retardants/(15.03,07-5) Insulation-(15.01.01-7)
Residential buildings.
3. (22) Textiles and Textile Finishing
In this category one should specify, when appropriate, an activity from
"(22.03) Textile finishing and coating", and a product from "(22.01) Fiber and
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fiber products", or "(22.02) Textile goods, n. e. c.". For instance,
hexaraethylene diamine serves as an antistatic agent in the finishing of man-
made knit fabrics. This use would be coded as follows:
(328) Antistatic agents/(22.05.01.04-2) Chemical finishing n. e. c. -
(22.01.04.03-0) Man-made knit fabrics.
4. (27) Printing and Publishing
In this category one should specify, when appropriate, an activity from
"(27.02) Printing and related activities", and a product from "(27.01) Printed
products". For instance, Yellow 12 serves as a toner in gravure printing of
catalogues and directories. This use would be coded as follows:
(225) Toner/ (27.02.01.04-4) Gravure- (27.01.05-3) Catalogues and
directories.
5. (30.02) Plastic Products
In this category one should specify, when appropriate, an activity from
"(30.02.16) Plastics forming processes", and a product from sections
(30.02.01) through (30.02.15) For example, carbon black serves as reinforcing
agent in injection molded plastics. This use would be coded as follows:
?(250)' Reinforcing agents/(30.02.16.01-9) Injection molding -
(30.02.02-4) Plastic rods, tubes and other stock shapes.
6. (34) Fabricated Metal Products
In this'category, one should specify, when appropriate, an activity from
"(34.09)' Metal processing", and a product from sections (34.01) through
(34.08). It might also be appropriate to select a product from sections such
as "(37.01.01) Motor vehicles" or "(33.01.05.03) Steel castings". For
example, zinc serves as a corrosion inhibitor in hot dip coated metals. This
use would be coded as follows:
(323) Corrosion inhibitors/(34.09.05-8) Galvanizing and other hot dip
coatings - (34.03.01-8) Fabricated structural metal.
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4. (80) Building Application^
In this category one should specify, when appropriate, an activity from
"(80.02) Building-related activities", and a product from "(80.01) Building
categories". For instance, 1,2- dichloroethane serves as a degreaser in
service station cleaning operations. This use would be coded as follows:
(229) Degreasers/(80.02.01-3) Cleaning - (80.01.05-6) Service stations
and garages.
8. (32.01) Glass
In this category, one should specify, when appropriate, an activity from
"(32.08.01.-4) Glass finishing", and a product from "(32.01.02-5) Flat glass",
"(32.01.04-7) Glass containers", or "(32,02.05-8) Glassware". For example,
Fe203 serves as a coloring agent in the staining of glass. This use would be
coded as follows:
(86) Coloring agents/ (32.01.01.01-5) Chemical treatment- (32.01.02.03-8)
Sheet glass.
9. (95) General Processes
The general process terms in this category describe activities that are
not limited to a single industry, but are common to a number of industries.
These terms should only be used if the activity cannot be accurately described
in a specific section of the Application List, or if the respondent is only
aware that the substance functions in the general process.
The terms should be used in combination with a particular application
where specification of a process would help clarify the use of chemicals in
the manufacture of a product. An example is magnesium perchlorate which serve
*s a dehydrating agent in the reactions of ethers. This use would be coded as
follows:
(73) Dehydrating.agents/(95.01.08-4) Reaction - (28.02.02.03-5)
Ethers.
G. Specifying Product or Activity Applications (P or A)
As discussed above, it will occasionally be necessary to distinguish
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between the product and activity meanings of an application tern. Due to the
existence of the sections described in Part F, only in a few cases should it
be necessary to explicitly make the distinction. Most cases will be obvious.
The key element in making a distinction between product and activity
hinges on whether or not the substance is intentionally incorporated in the
final product. If a substance is used only in manufacture or processing and
is not intentionally incorporated in the finished product, an "A" for activity
may be specified. If the substance is intentionally incorporated in the
finished product, a "F" should be specified. The A or P should be added to
the use description following the code number (including check digit).
For example, parting agents are used in the manufacture of rubber tires.
This use would be coded as follows:
(144) Parting agents/ (30.01.02-3A) Tires and Innertubes.
On the other hand, pigments are included in tires. This use would be
coded as:
(125) Pigments/(30.01.02-3P) Tires and Innertubes.
H. Multiple Applications; Additional Application Term*
1. General discussion
Frequently, a use description may be improved by (an) additional
application term(s) which serves to limit the scope of the application. For
example, acetone is used as a solvent in special glues for making plywood.
This would be described as follows:
(271) Solvents/(28.13.02.02.03-8) Synthetic organic adhesives T
(24.03.01-8) Plywood veneer.
As the example indicates, the application terms are separated by
hyphens. When multiple application terms are used, the function term may only
be relevant to the first application. In this example, for instance, the
solvent only functions in the adhesive. Function terras, applicable to each
^Bp in the application chain should not be strung to$*ther,' but rather listed
as separate use descriptions.
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2. .(30.02.07) Industrial Plastics Products
In one section of the Application List, the user is specifically
instructed to use additional application terms. This is section "(30.02.07)
Industrial plastics products" which includes four broad categories of
applications such as housings and cabinetry, and mechanical components and
parts. Additional application terms may be used to specify the industry
segment involved. .For example, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene is used as a
raw material in the production of housings of car stereo equipment. This use
would be coded as follows:
(224) Plastics for shaping/ (30.02.07.01-0) Plastic housings and
cabinetry - (36.03.03.03-5) Audio components
*• (28) Chemicals and Allied Products
This section of the Application List contains two parts. The first is
composition terms: "(28.01) Inorganic chemicals" and "(28.02) Organic
chemicals". The second is end-use terms: (28.03) through (28.14). The end-
use terms include categories, such as explosives .and inks, and refer to end-
products produced to meet specific performance characteristics. A chemical
composition term refers to a specific molecular and elemental arrangement of
atoms.
The composition section is used when a substance is used in the
manufacture or processing of a chemical product or class of chemical
products. The user may know, for example, that a substance is used in the
manufacture of "(28.02.02.02) Acyclic hydrocarbons". If the specific acyclic
hydrocarbon is known, the user must provide the IUPAC (International Union of
Physicists and Chemists) name in the narrative section (described below), and
must also provide the CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number. Whenever a
specific chemical identity of an application is known, a CAS number must be
provided if one has been assigned.
The end-use section is to be used if the particular chemical composition
is not known, or if the substances functions in a wide-category of chemical
products. For example, diphenylamine is used as a stabilizer in explosives.
This use should be coded:
(54) Stabilizers/(28.11.04-3) High explosives
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In cases where a composition term and an end-use term are both appropriate,
the respondent must give both*
J. Use of Narrative Material
If the terms on the Function and Application Lists and the formats
described above are inadequate, either because they fail to convey some
critical detail or because they imply more than they should, narrative
material may be appended to improve the overall use description.
One particular type of information that may be useful in a narrative is a
product number from the Numerical List of Manufactured Products (NLMP) which
is an extension of the SIC system to the product level. It contains nearly
20,000 specific product descriptors. Users of NLMP descriptors are required
to use the code number for the product preceded by the acronym NLMP, e.g.,
NLMP 22 . Narrative descriptions of products are acceptable as well as NLMP
codes. In the example of a paint thickener, for instance, the respondent may
wish to write in the Narrative section NLMP 28514-11-5, to indicate that this
thickener is used exclusively in flat interior latex trade sale paints.
As mentioned above, Category 28 of the Application List, "Chemicals and
allied products" contains terms for describing applications in which chemicals
are used in the manufacture or processing of other chemicals. The terms
necessarily represent categories of chemicals. When using a term from this
section of the Application List to refer to a specific chemical, the Chemical
Abstract Service (CAS) number for the chemical must be supplied, if one has
been assigned. If the CAS number is used, it should be prefaced by "CAS",
i.e., CAS 7647-01-0. When no CAS number has been assigned, the IUPAC name of
the chemical substance or substances must be specified. An example is
magnesium bromide used as a catalyst in the production of methyl ethyl
ketone. In the narrative section, the respondent would write:
Catalyst in production of Methyl ethyl ketone. CAS 78-93-3.
If users wish to describe the chemical use in their own words in addition
to describing it with a function/application combination, they may do so in
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the narrative section. However, the respondent must always provide a valid
ChemUSES code.
If the valid ChemUSES code contains either the terms Function Unknown or
Not Found,, or Application Unknown or Not Found, respondents must describe the
use in the narrative section. .
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ChemUSES Checklist
1. Examine Function List Index and record name and code number of candidate
function terms. x
< '
2. Look for candidate terms by number in Function List. Read all scope
notes and choose best valid function term(s).
3. Examine Application List Index* Record name and code number of
candidate application terms* You may wish to refer to SIC - ChemUSES
relationship table;
4. Examine relevant sections of Application List. Read all scope notes and
choose appropriate terms. Provide as much detail as possible* Record
selected term(s) and number(s).
3. Combine function and application terms as instructed*
6. If application is an identified chemical, write CAS number and IUPAC
name in narrative section.
7. Describe the chemical use in your own words in the narrative section, if
appropriate.
8. When necessary consult the combination lists for suggested
function/application combinations.
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