What is EN ISO 14184-1:2011?

EN ISO 14184-1:2011 is a technical standard that specifies the methods used for the determination of certain prohibited aromatic amines derived from azo colorants in textiles. Azo colorants are synthetic dyes commonly used in the textile industry to achieve various colors and patterns. However, some azo colorants can release harmful amines when they come into contact with human perspiration or saliva.

Importance of EN ISO 14184-1:2011

This standard is important because it helps ensure the safety and quality of textiles that come into direct and prolonged contact with human skin. Exposure to certain aromatic amines has been linked to adverse health effects, including skin allergies and even certain types of cancer. By complying with the requirements of EN ISO 14184-1:2011, manufacturers can ensure that their textiles do not pose a risk to consumers.

Testing Methods for Aromatic Amines

The standard specifies two different test methods for determining the presence of prohibited aromatic amines in textiles:

Sample Preparation: This step involves extracting the colorants from the textile sample using an appropriate solvent. The extracted solution is then treated with hydrochloric acid to convert any diazo compounds into aromatic amines.

Analysis: The extracted solution is analyzed using either a thin-layer chromatography (TLC) technique or a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique. These techniques are used to separate and identify individual aromatic amines present in the sample.

Compliance and Certification

In order to comply with EN ISO 14184-1:2011, textile manufacturers must ensure that their products meet the specified limits for aromatic amines. Regular testing and quality control procedures should be implemented to verify compliance. Additionally, independent third-party certification bodies can provide certification for textiles that meet the requirements of the standard, giving consumers confidence in the safety of the products they purchase.