A recent production run of TDI* has been polluted by dichlorobenzene. As a result, some end products may also be contaminated by dichlorobenzene, a chemical element that is also listed by Oeko-Tex®. This contamination of the TDI may therefore result in the emission of dichlorobenzene concentrations surpassing the limit values prescribed by Oeko-Tex®, Ikea, and specific organisations. The specialized chemical laboratory of Centexbel has a vast experience in analysing the chemicals in question and offers different tests to determine the presence and amount of dichlorobenzene, depending on the requirements according to Oeko-Tex® or to e.g. IKEA specifications through ISO 16000-9.

Determination of di- and trichlorobenze by means of extraction

  • Oeko-Tex® test method: determination of chlorinated benzenes and toluenes, based on the pressurised liquid extraction with acetone. The extracts are subsequently measured by GC/MS/MS.
  • DIN 54232 test method: determination of chlorinated benzenes and toluenes, based on an ultrasonic extraction with dichloromethane. The extracts are subsequently measure GC/MS/MS.

The tests determine the exact amount of the substance. The reporting values of both methods is 0.1 mg/kg (individual component) Needed sample size: 10 - 20 g

Detection of di-and trichlorobenze by means of emission

  • Oeko-Tex® test method
  • ISO 16000-9 test method

Needed sample size: Oeko-Tex ® 20 x 20 x 25 cm. ISO 16000-9 (according to product standard) If your company has any doubt whether your production is compromised, please contact Stijn Steuperaert * BASF is by far the biggest supplier of TDI (toluene diisocyanate), an essential element in the production of flexible PU foams.