A new ASTM International standard will provide the means to
quickly detect and quantify the lead concentration in toys and
other children's products. The new standard, F2853, Test Method
for Determination of Lead in Paint Layers and Similar Coatings
or in Substrates and Homogenous Materials by Energy Dispersive
X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry Using Multiple Monochromatic
Excitation Beams, was developed by Subcommittee F40.01 on Test
Methods, part of ASTM International Committee F40 on Declarable
Substances in Materials. The analytical technique described in
this standard is commonly referred to as HDXRF. "Frequent
testing of children's products aids in identifying sources of
lead contamination and ultimately prevents out-of-compliance
merchandise from reaching store shelves," said Berry Beumer,
vice president, XOS Inc., and chairman of the task group that
developed F2853. ASTM F2853 provides a convenient means to test
for lead using the energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence
spectroscopy technique. Such testing