Determination of Lead Release by Artificial Saliva Solution: Textile

EN 16711-3: Textiles. Determination of metal content Determination of lead release by artificial saliva solution

Textile products are used in every aspect of our lives. Especially due to the use of many chemicals in their production, they must undergo many testing processes. The most important test parameters in textile products are the determination of heavy metals.

With the EN 16711-3 standard, the amount of lead in textile products is determined. It is a method used to determine the lead release rate of textile products. Lead release is detected with artificial saliva solution.

Purpose of EN 16711-3 Standard

The main objective of this standard is to control lead in textile products to minimize its effects on human health. Lead can be found in various components such as textile dyes, coatings and metallic accessories. Lead release tests are of great importance, especially as children can put textiles in their mouths.

Application Area

The EN 16711-3 standard applies to assess lead emissions in the following product groups

• Children's clothing and accessories
• Adult apparel
• Footwear and other textile-based products
• Textile parts in contact with toys
• Interior textiles (e.g. furniture fabrics)

Test Method

a) Sample Preparation

• Specimens of a certain size are taken from the textile product to be tested.
• Samples are cut and cleaned according to the standard.

b) Artificial Saliva Solution Preparation

• The components used in the solution form a chemical structure similar to human saliva. The solution usually contains ions such as phosphate, chloride and carbonate.
• The pH of the solution is usually adjusted in the range 6.5-7.5, in accordance with human saliva.

c) Extraction Process

• The sample is immersed in the artificial saliva solution for a certain period of time (usually 1-2 hours) and left in the solution.
• At the end of the time, the sample is removed from the solution and the amount of lead in the solution is measured.

d) Lead Analysis

• The amount of lead in the extracted solution is analyzed by the following methods:
• ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry): Detects very low levels of lead.
• AAS (Atomic Absorption Spectrometry): Used to measure lead concentration.

Assessment and Limit Values

Test results are evaluated based on the concentration of lead in the solution. The European Union's REACH regulations limit the amount of lead in textile products for children. The EN 16711-3 test is used to verify that these limits are not exceeded.

• Recommended limit value for children's products: 0.05 mg/kg or less.
• Recommended limit for adult products: More flexible limits may apply.

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Determination of Lead Release by Artificial Saliva Solution. We also provide services in Corrosion Resistance Testing.

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