Environmental advocacy organizations have filed a lawsuit challenging the Environmental Protection Agency’s approval of two new chemicals used in datacenter and semiconductor production, contending the agency violated federal safety requirements.
The two photoacid generator compounds appear to be related to PFAS, often called “forever chemicals” because they persist indefinitely in the environment and human body, according to the lawsuit filed by Earthjustice. The EPA acknowledged in approval documents that the chemicals may present an “unreasonable risk” to workers and the public, but proceeded with authorization anyway, the legal challenge asserts. An attorney involved in the case stated this violates the Toxic Substances Control Act, which requires the EPA to restrict or prohibit chemicals presenting unreasonable risks. The consent orders approving the chemicals also indicated the agency lacks data on lethal exposure levels and other serious health impacts, yet approved them for immediate use across U.S. facilities.
The EPA has not responded to requests for comment. Redacted sections of the approval documents make it unclear whether the chemicals were fast-tracked under a late 2025 Trump executive order designed to accelerate datacenter chemical approvals. At that time, public health advocates expressed concern the order would circumvent chemical safety review requirements. The manufacturer’s identity remains redacted in agency filings.
Photoacid generators function as key inputs in semiconductor production, filtering ultraviolet light to imprint circuit patterns during manufacturing. Industry representatives contend alternative compounds are unavailable or would require significant technological regression. However, advocates for stronger regulation argue that disposal remains problematic, as incineration does not fully destroy many such chemicals and creates health risks for communities surrounding incinerators, frequently low-income areas. The EPA’s restrictions, such as limiting container size, do little to address public health concerns, critics contend.
The lawsuit represents part of a broader pattern under the current administration, according to legal representatives, where datacenter and artificial intelligence expansion priorities have been prioritized over environmental and public health protections.
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