EDANA NWSP 360 Series
For several years, SGS laboratories have been looking for restricted or disturbing substances in Absorbent Hygiene Products (AHPs) by sampling materials, followed by harsh extraction (intrinsic quantification). This method remains applicable and useful today for the monitoring of substances in AHPs, but does not reflect the aspects of use and keeps the current toxicological assessment as a worst case.
Therefore, in order to search for trace chemicals based on experimental extraction that are geared to real life conditions, SGS has proactively proposed its expertise at participating in a working group within EDANA1 in the development of an international and harmonized method. This method takes into account the criteria of use (e.g. urine simulant, body temperature), while ensuring its robustness by taking into account all the elements of practicality, repeatability and reproducibility.
Relevant Tests and Steps
- NWSP 360.1 method: milling of AHPs to produce a homogenized sample
- NWSP 360.2 method:
- Impregnation respecting the specimen/simulant ratio
- Shaken at 37°C for 16 hours
- Filtration step
- Aqueous extract
- NWSP 360.3 method : analysis of trace chemicals in aqueous extracts (biological fluid simulants) of AHPs:
- List of parameters which have threshold values defined in the EDANA1 stewardship program CODEX™: formaldehyde, PAHs, pesticides, glyphosate/AMPA, dioxins and PCBs-DL, phthalates, organo-tins, AP/APEO, bisphenol A, heavy metals.
- Additional parameters (conclusion according to our LOQs): allergens, VOC, propylene oxide and furan, EOX/AOX...
Application Range
Finished products:
- Baby diapers
- Feminine hygiene products
- Incontinence
Target and Limits
According to the EDANA1 stewardship program CODEXTM, based on but not limited to:
- OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 interpretation
- Recommendation BfR/German BauA AfP’s
- European food regulations
Added Value
- This method allows both practicality and realistic conditions to be combined for a better toxicological assessment of Trace chemicals in AHPs related to the safety of users.
- SGS has worked on the replicability of the method for raw materials as well.
Glossary
1 EDANA: is the leading global association and voice of the nonwovens and related industries.
Additional services
Whatever substances are detected above our quantification limits, SGS can assist with toxicological expertise on request to assess the exposure, calculate the safety margins and write a report to conclude on the safety of the product.