Testing for harmful metal(loid)s that may be included in raw materials, processes, paints and additives used in the manufacturing processes of children's toys has been mandated by the regulation EN 71-3. This regulation recommends specific testing methods and maximum allowable concentrations of leachable metals and metalloids such as Al, As, B, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr (III), Cr (VI), Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, Sn, organotin, Sr and Zn in parts of toys, with the exclusion of general packaging materials.
This work shows a method for the measurement of hexavalent chromium in different toy material categories in accordance with method EN 71-3 Category II, leveraging the unique combination and capabilities of the NexSAR™ Inert HPLC coupled to the robust NexION® ICP-MS.