Determination of Aromatic Amines Derived from Azo Colorants

Determination of Aromatic Amines in Textiles

Azo Colorants and Aromatic Amines

Azo Colorants are chemical compounds containing a pair of nitrogen (N=N) bonds in their molecular structure and are commonly used in textile dyes, leather dyes and some other industrial applications. These colorants are popular because they offer a wide range of colors. However, under certain conditions, azo colorants can undergo chemical conversion in skin contact or in the biological environment to compounds called aromatic aminates.

Aromatic amines are compounds that can exhibit carcinogenic and toxic properties. The release of these compounds can lead to serious health risks in long-term exposure. In particular, some azo colorants can release harmful aromatic amines such as 4-aminoazobenzene, which can cause cancer risk, skin allergic reactions and toxic effects.

What is ISO 17234-1 Standard Scope? What are the Hazards of Azo Dyes in Leather Products?

Azo dyestuffs consist entirely of organic, -N=N- azo group. It is generally used in the dyeing of leathers to ensure that the colors give the desired color. Leather products are highly preferred especially in textile products and shoes. The use of leather products in different areas is also used in different colors.

The presence of azo dyes in leather products is undesirable due to their harm. The general damages that may occur with long-term exposure to azo dyes can be listed as follows:

• Due to its carcinogenic effects, it can cause skin, bladder, kidney or liver cancer.
• Skin conditions such as eczema, irritation and allergies
• Upper respiratory tract irritation, respiratory failure
• Neurotoxic effects

The ISO 17234-1 standard specifies a method for the determination of the use of certain azo colorants capable of releasing certain aromatic amines.

ISO 17234-1 Leather - Chemical tests for the determination of certain azo colorants in dyed leather - Part 1: Determination of certain aromatic amines derived from azo colorants

Importance and Application Areas of ISO 17234-1 Test

• Health and Safety: Some of the aromatic amines may exhibit carcinogenic properties and prolonged skin contact may result in allergic reactions or toxic effects. ISO 17234-1 is a critical test to detect these harmful components. This testing is particularly important for children's clothing, toys and other products that come into contact with the skin.
• International Standards and Regulations: Many countries have legal regulations limiting the use of aromatic amines derived from azo colorants. ISO 17234-1 ensures that textile products comply with legal requirements in international markets. In regions such as the European Union and the USA, limiting such harmful compounds is necessary to ensure the safety of products and reduce health risks.
• Quality Control and Producer Responsibility: Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety of their products by performing this test. ISO 17234-1 is a regularly required test that manufacturers can integrate into their quality control processes. This is important both to comply with legal regulations and to gain consumer confidence.

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Determination of Aromatic Amines. We also provide services in Textile Analysis.

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