Nickel Institute actions
1. Socio-Economic Analysis (SEA)
The Nickel Institute is currently preparing a Socio-Economic Analysis Case Study on nickel sulphate.
The aims of the project are:
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to test the approach and methodology proposed
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to develop in-house expertise
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to identify data and expertise gaps
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to establish quality data sources
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to complete a full SEA for one particular sector: investigate the borderline between collective and generic defense
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to propose a consistent and standard approach – SEA “template” methodology
The work program is organized in 4 phases: i) the set-up of the baseline, ii) the identification of the consequences of refused authorization, iii) the assessment of the human health and environmental impacts and iv) the comparison of the costs and benefits.
The SEA on Case Study on nickel sulphate should be completed by the end of 2011.
Two additional SEA are being considered on other nickel salts.
2. Preparation of the Annex XV dossiers
The aim of this project is to draft Annex XV dossiers for 10 nickel compounds liable for Authorisation. This project should be completed in 2012.
3. Study on Substitution for plating
As it is clear that the main aim of Authorisation is Substitution, the Nickel Institute has launched a study to examine current nickel surface treatment technologies and possible alternatives (including alternative coating technologies) in the automotive, aerospace and decorative plating sectors.
The scope of this study is not only to make an inventory and description of existing nickel using surface treatment technologies, as well as alternative technologies for achieving the same end use/application, but also to evaluate each technology (nickel-based, non nickel-based or alternative) versus agreed parameters/criteria such as critical properties, functionality, hazard classification, etc.
