Scope:

Lead and cadmium are harmful heavy metals that are used for a variety of occupational purposes. The release of these elements from foodware is regulated by many countries. To regulate these metals, ASTM C1466 is used because it provides precise and accurate results, and the test is easy to conduct. This test involves 24-h leaching of heavy metals with acetic acid. 

This test must be conducted in contamination-free settings. This test is not appropriate to use in a non-laboratory environment for quality control of ceramics. Test method C738 is used for non-laboratory testing of ceramic. 

ASTM C1466 determines the amount of lead and cadmium present in the foodware. To be precise, on the surface of the foodware which comes in contact with the food. The method applies to food-contact surfaces composed of silicate-based materials (earthenware, glazed ceramic ware, decorated ceramic ware, decorated glass, and lead crystal glass). 

Test Procedure:

In ASTM C1466, food contact surfaces of test specimens are filled with 4% acetic acid within 6 to 7 mm (1⁄4 in.) of overflowing. They are leached for 24 h at 20 to 24°C (68 to 75°F). After leaching, the quantity of metal is determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAAS). The concentrations of lead and cadmium in leach solutions are calculated using a calibration curve and linear least squares regression.

Video 01: Atomic absorption spectrophotometry

Data:

The amount and concentration of lead and cadmium are reported. 

Conclusion:

ASTM C1466 determines the amount of lead and cadmium present in the foodware. To be precise, on the surface of the foodware which comes in contact with the food.