What are the REACH chemical tests for latex paint?
Date：2025-11-03 10:31:47 Classification
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For latex paint exported to the EU as a coating product, REACH chemical testing is an essential step, especially the testing for Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) and Restricted Substances Specified (RSS), which directly affects whether the product can enter the market compliantly. REACH testing for latex paint should focus on three main categories: SVHCs, Restricted Substances in Annex 17, and RSS substances.
1. Heavy Metals and Their Compounds
| Substance Name | Limit Requirements | Common Sources in Latex Paints
| Lead (Pb) and its compounds | ≤0.1% (w/w) | Pigments (e.g., lead white), anti-rust primers
| Cadmium (Cd) and its compounds | ≤0.01% (w/w) | Yellow/red pigments (cadmium sulfide)
| Hexavalent Chromium (Cr⁶⁺) | ≤0.0001% | Rust inhibitors, catalyst residues
2. Organic Pollutants
- Phthalate Esters: Total of 6 plasticizers including DEHP, DBP, and BBP ≤0.1% (commonly used in film-forming aids for latex paints)
- Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): Total of 16 substances including benzo[a]pyrene ≤0.5 mg/kg (coal tar pigment residues)
- Formaldehyde Emitters: Such as dimethyloldimethylhydantoin (DMDM) Hydantoin) ≤0.1% (preservative)
3. Other High-Risk Substances
- Bisphenol A (BPA): When used as an epoxy resin curing agent, migration ≤0.05mg/kg
- Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA): An additive in waterproof latex paints, content must be ≤0.005%
- Asbestos: A prohibited substance, absolutely not allowed to be detected (some inferior fillers may be mixed in)
Detection Method: Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is used to screen all substances in latex paint samples to ensure that the content of any single SVHC does not exceed 0.1%.
Annex 17 Restricted Substances Testing (Mandatory Requirements)
For specific uses of latex paint, the following restrictions in Annex 17 of REACH must be met:
1. Cadmium Content Restriction
- According to Regulation (EU) 2021/217, the cadmium content in latex paint must not exceed 0.1% (by mass), which has been fully implemented since March 8, 2025.
- Risks involved: Cadmium is highly toxic and bioaccumulative; long-term exposure may damage the kidneys and bones.
2. Azo Dyes
- Azo dyes that can decompose carcinogenic aromatic amines are prohibited; testing must comply with EN 14362.
- Commonly found in red and orange latex paint pigments.
3. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
- Although REACH does not directly restrict the total amount of VOCs, Annex 17 sets limits for specific VOCs (such as benzene and toluene):
- Benzene: Prohibited (detection limit ≤ 0.1 mg/kg)
- Total toluene + xylene: ≤0.3% (Common risk of solvent-based latex paint)
Latex Paint-Specific Risk Testing
Depending on the product formulation and application, the following targeted tests may be required:
1. Pigment and Filler Safety
- Soluble Heavy Metals: Detect migration levels of 8 elements including antimony, arsenic, and barium according to EN 71-3 standard (simulating a child's accidental contact scenario)
- Biocides: For latex paints containing antifungal agents, isothiazolinone preservatives need to be tested (MIT≤0.01%)
2. Construction and Use Safety
- Free Formaldehyde: Tested according to EN ISO 12460-5 standard, release level ≤0.1mg/m³ (to avoid indoor air pollution)
- Flash Point and Flammability: Solvent-based latex paints need to be tested for a flash point ≥32℃ (transportation and storage safety requirements)
Testing Process and Cycle
1. 1. Sample Preparation: Provide a 500ml unopened latex paint sample (must be consistent with the mass production formula).
2. Separation Testing: Liquid paints are tested directly without separation (unlike solid products).
3. Testing Cycle:
- SVHC full-item testing: 5-7 working days
- Including Appendix 17 restricted substances: Extended to 7-10 working days
4. Report Requirements: Must include substance name, CAS number, test results, and compliance determination (whether ≤0.1%).
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