ISO 17075 Determination of chromium VI in leathers for environmental safety
The ISO 17075 standard specifies a method for determining hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) content in leather materials. This is crucial for ensuring the environmental and human health safety of products derived from leather, particularly those intended for consumer use or sale.
Hexavalent chromium is a potent carcinogen that can be harmful if ingested or absorbed through contact with skin. The standard provides detailed procedures to quantify Cr(VI) in leathers, thereby enabling manufacturers and suppliers to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards.
The testing process involves several steps, including sample preparation, digestion of the leather sample, and subsequent analysis using spectrophotometric methods or ion chromatography. The results are compared against predefined limits set by regulatory bodies such as REACH in Europe or TSCA in North America.
Our laboratory adheres strictly to ISO 17075 requirements, ensuring accurate and reliable testing of chromium VI content in leather samples. This service is particularly valuable for clients operating in the fashion industry, where concerns over environmental impact and human health are paramount.
Scope and Methodology
The scope of ISO 17075 covers the determination of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) in leather samples using a digestion method followed by spectrophotometric analysis. The standard applies to various types of leather, including but not limited to hides, split leathers, and coated leathers.
The methodology involves several key steps:
- Sample Preparation: Samples are cut into small pieces that represent a homogeneous mixture of the leather being tested. This ensures accurate representation of the chromium content across the sample.
- Digestion Process: The prepared samples undergo digestion to convert Cr(VI) into a form suitable for spectrophotometric analysis. Typically, this involves the use of strong acids like nitric acid or perchloric acid.
- Analysis: After digestion, the solution is analyzed using either spectrophotometry or ion chromatography. Spectrophotometry measures the absorbance at a specific wavelength characteristic of Cr(VI), while ion chromatography quantifies the chromium ions directly.
- Interpretation and Reporting: The results are compared against specified limits, and reports are generated detailing the chromium VI content in parts per million (ppm). Compliance with regulatory standards is assessed based on these findings.
The laboratory ensures that all steps are meticulously followed to achieve accurate and reliable results. Compliance officers and quality managers can rely on our expertise to provide robust data for regulatory submissions and internal quality checks.
Why Choose This Test
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to international standards like REACH, TSCA, and other regional regulations that mandate the control of hexavalent chromium.
- Risk Mitigation: Identifies potential health hazards associated with Cr(VI) exposure during product lifecycle.
- Brand Reputation Protection: Maintains a positive brand image by demonstrating commitment to environmental and human safety standards.
- Certification and Accreditation: Our laboratory is ISO/IEC 17025 accredited, ensuring the highest level of quality in our testing services.
- Expertise and Experience: Our team of chemists and analysts has extensive experience in leather and textile analysis, providing accurate and actionable insights.
- Confidentiality: We handle sensitive data with strict confidentiality measures to protect client information.
- Timely Turnaround: Fast turnaround times ensure that clients receive results promptly, facilitating timely decision-making.
The ISO 17075 test is essential for any organization involved in the production or sale of leather goods. By choosing this service, you are ensuring that your products meet the highest standards of safety and environmental responsibility.
Use Cases and Application Examples
| Use Case | Description |
|---|---|
| Fashion Industry Compliance | Determining Cr(VI) content to ensure compliance with REACH regulations. |
| Retailer Quality Control | Monitoring product safety during the supply chain to prevent harmful substances from entering the market. |
| Consumer Product Safety | Ensuring that leather products do not pose a health risk to consumers. |
| Research and Development | Developing new leather formulations with reduced Cr(VI) content for more sustainable production processes. |
| Import/Export Compliance | Avoiding penalties by ensuring compliance with import/export regulations related to chromium VI. |
| Environmental Impact Assessment | Evaluating the environmental impact of leather production and processing practices. |
| Product Life Cycle Analysis | Understanding the entire lifecycle of a product, from raw material sourcing to disposal. |
The ISO 17075 test is widely used across various sectors where leather products are manufactured or sold. By leveraging this service, organizations can ensure that their products meet stringent safety and regulatory requirements.
