TS EN IEC 62321-12

TS EN IEC 62321-12 is a test standard focused on the simultaneous determination of selected chemical substances in polymer materials used in electrotechnical products. This part provides a reference method for measuring polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and four phthalates: DIBP, DBP, BBP and DEHP. In practical terms, it addresses the laboratory analysis of regulated or monitored organic substances in polymers where several target compounds may need to be assessed in one workflow.

Sample preparation and analytical principle

The document describes ultrasonic-assisted extraction as the sample-preparation technique. General technical context: ultrasonic energy helps improve the release of target substances from the polymer matrix into an extraction solvent, which can make subsequent analysis more efficient. The measurement itself is based on gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), a well-established technique that separates components by chromatography and then identifies and quantifies them by mass spectral detection. This combination is especially useful for complex mixtures and for analytes that must be distinguished with high selectivity.

Where this part fits in IEC 62321

• The scope covers PBBs, PBDEs, and the four specified phthalates in polymers of electrotechnical products.
• GC-MS is identified as the reference technique for measurements in the 25 mg/kg to 2,000 mg/kg range.
• The evaluated material set includes PP, PVC, ABS, ACM, PS, PU and PE.
• The standard has horizontal-standard status in accordance with IEC Guide 108, meaning it is intended as a cross-cutting analytical method rather than a product-specific requirement.