Dec 7 2007
Almost daily, we wake to the news that another toy has been recalled from the market due to the presence of lead in the paint applied to the toy. The recalls are primarily being carried out by the major toy manufacturers; but it seems that the problem exists throughout the toy industry. X-ray Fluorescence analysis is the simple answer to detecting lead and other heavy metals (such as arsenic, cadmium, mercury) in toys, jewelry and any consumer products. With Oxford Instruments’ complete XRF analyzer product line at your disposal; you can have peace of mind knowing that you are delivering a safe product to your customer.
We are proud to have recently released a special configuration of the X-MET3000TXR+ which provides a simple method of screening products for lead content. The X-MET3000TXR+ is a portable, hand-held XRF analyzer that can be taken to any location – a store, a warehouse, an incoming port – to test the toys. XRF is a non-destructive test method with low detection limits and rapid measurement times. When measuring homogeneous samples the Consumer Product Safety Commission limit of 600 ppm lead can easily be analyzed. In situations where the sample is thin, such as a layer of paint on a toy, it is possible to screen for the presence or absence of lead.
When a more detailed analysis is needed, the X-Strata microspot bench-top analyzer can analyze small features (down to 0.1 mm in diameter) on a product. It also provides a photographic record of the sample location measured ensuring that you can document your due diligence processes. Oxford Instruments Twin-X and Lab-X bulk analyzers are capable of easily measuring raw materials such as paint and plastics.
Given the liability of the toy seller to ensure that the toy is safe, XRF screening is a wise investment. Recent recalls have cost companies money and reputation. In addition, the accuracy of XRF screening can significantly reduce the false-positive results for the presence of lead that other techniques may give. XRF analysis of all consumer products using Oxford Instruments’ complete range of instruments provides a sensible business solution.