ISO 10545-15-2021 PDF

Full title and description

ISO 10545-15:2021 — Ceramic tiles — Part 15: Determination of lead and cadmium given off by tiles. This International Standard specifies a laboratory extraction and analysis method to determine the quantity of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) released from the surface of ceramic tiles (glazed and other surface finishes) under defined conditions. It is intended for product safety assessment, quality control and regulatory compliance.

Abstract

This document defines a surface-extraction test method for measuring lead and cadmium released from ceramic-tile surfaces. The procedure uses a weak acetic-acid extraction applied to a defined area of tile, controlled temperature and time conditions, and quantitative instrumental analysis of the extract (for example by atomic absorption or ICP techniques). Results are reported as mass of metal released per unit surface area to allow comparison against limits or specifications.

General information

• Status: Published
• Publication date: 15 June 2021
• Publisher: International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
• ICS / categories: 91.100.23 (Ceramic tiles)
• Edition / version: Edition 2 (2021)
• Number of pages: 3

Scope

ISO 10545-15:2021 specifies a standardized laboratory procedure for determining the amount of lead and cadmium given off from the surface of ceramic tiles. The method covers specimen preparation, the composition and preparation of the test solution, test assembly and sealing of the test area, controlled exposure conditions and extraction time, analytical measurement of Pb and Cd in the extract, and expression of results per unit surface area. The procedure is applicable to ceramic floor and wall tiles for purposes of product safety evaluation, quality control and regulatory assessment.

Key topics and requirements

• Test principle: exposure of a defined tile surface area to an acetic-acid extraction solution and measurement of Pb and Cd released into the solution.
• Test solution: preparation of a 4 % (v/v) acetic-acid extraction solution (laboratory-grade water and glacial acetic acid) for use as the extracting medium.
• Specimen preparation: cleaning of the tile surface, defining and sealing the test area (e.g., with a silicone or inert gasket) to prevent leakage and avoid edge effects.
• Extraction conditions: controlled laboratory temperature and light conditions, and an extraction period specified by the standard (typical extraction time is 24 h with allowed tolerance), with the tile extract covered during the period.
• Analytical methods: quantitative determination of Pb and Cd in the extract using appropriate instrumental techniques (for example atomic absorption spectroscopy or ICP), including calibration and quality controls.
• Reporting: results expressed as mass of metal released per unit surface area (e.g., mg·dm⁻²), together with test conditions and any deviations from the procedure.
• Purpose: supports product safety verification, specification compliance and regulatory assessment where limits on heavy-metal release apply.

Typical use and users

Typical users include tile manufacturers (quality control and product development), independent testing laboratories, national and regional conformity assessment bodies, importers and specifiers concerned with product safety, and regulatory authorities. The standard is used when assessing tile conformity to market requirements that restrict lead and cadmium release or when generating safety data for product declarations and technical dossiers.

Related standards

ISO 10545-15:2021 is part of the ISO 10545 series for ceramic-tile testing (other parts cover sampling, dimensional tolerances, water absorption, mechanical strength, abrasion resistance, thermal properties, chemical resistance, stain resistance and additional performance tests). It is also related to regional/adopted texts such as EN ISO 10545-15 and national adoptions; complementary standards for chemical analysis and laboratory water quality (e.g., references such as ISO 3696 for laboratory water) are often used alongside it. For product definitions and marking, ISO 13006 and other parts of ISO 10545 provide context.

Keywords

ceramic tiles; lead release; cadmium release; heavy metals; extraction test; acetic acid; surface release; ISO 10545; product safety; tile testing; quality control; analytical chemistry.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ISO 10545-15:2021 is an International Standard that specifies a laboratory method to determine the amount of lead and cadmium given off (released) from the surface of ceramic tiles.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers specimen preparation, a 4 % acetic-acid extraction of a defined tile surface area under controlled conditions, analytical determination of Pb and Cd in the extract and reporting of results as mass per unit area. The procedure is intended for safety assessment, quality control and conformity purposes.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Tile manufacturers, testing laboratories, conformity assessment bodies, regulators, importers and specifiers use the standard to verify product safety and compliance with limits on heavy-metal release.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: ISO 10545-15:2021 (Edition 2, published 15 June 2021) is the current published edition; it supersedes and replaces the earlier ISO 10545-15:1995 version.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes — it is Part 15 of the ISO 10545 series (Ceramic tiles), a multi-part suite of test standards covering sampling, dimensions, physical and mechanical properties, and various performance tests for ceramic tiles.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Key keywords include ceramic tiles, lead, cadmium, heavy-metal release, acetic-acid extraction, surface release test, analytical measurement, and product safety.