Overview
EN ISO 17075-2:2017 (ISO 17075-2:2017) defines a chromatographic method for the chemical determination of chromium(VI) in solutions leached from leather. The method is applicable to all leather types and is designed to quantify extractable chromium(VI) down to 3 mg/kg (expressed as dry mass). Results are produced after extraction in a phosphate buffer at pH 7.0–8.0 and analysis by ion-exchange chromatography (HPLC/IC) with UV-VIS detection.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and sensitivity: Suitable for all leather types; limit of quantification around 3 mg/kg for chromium(VI).
- Extraction conditions: Extraction in phosphate buffer (pH 7.0–8.0). Results are strictly dependent on extraction solution, pH, time and procedure - results from other extraction methods are not comparable.
- Analytical principle: Ion-exchange chromatography (anion-exchange) with UV-VIS detection; recommended detectors include diode array (DAD).
- Chemicals & reagents: Analytical-grade reagents, potassium dichromate standards, phosphate buffer prepared and degassed; use of oxygen-free gas (argon preferred) for degassing is specified.
- Apparatus: Mechanical orbital shaker, filtration (0.45 µm PTFE/polyamide), HPLC/IC system with anion-exchange column, analytical balance, HPLC vials and cutting tools for sample prep.
- Quality controls: Calibration, recovery-rate determination and precision/accuracy assessments are included. Annexes provide chromatographic conditions and comparison with the colorimetric method (ISO 17075-1).
- Method relationship: When both ISO 17075-1 (colorimetric) and ISO 17075-2 are used, ISO 17075-2 results are considered the reference; chromatographic method avoids color interferences.
Applications
- Routine testing of leather for chromium(VI) content in quality control laboratories.
- Product safety verification for manufacturers of leather goods (footwear, garments, upholstery).
- Analytical laboratories performing compliance testing for chemical safety requirements where chromium speciation is relevant.
- Research and development for tanning processes, formulation changes, and substitution strategies to minimize hexavalent chromium formation.
Who uses this standard
- Accredited testing and analytical laboratories
- Leather manufacturers and tanneries
- Product compliance and regulatory teams
- Material scientists and R&D groups in the leather supply chain
- Procurement and quality assurance professionals overseeing supplier testing
Related standards
- ISO 17075-1 - Colorimetric method (comparison and complement)
- ISO 2418 - Sampling location for leather tests
- ISO 4044:2017 - Preparation of chemical test samples
- ISO 3696 - Water for analytical laboratory use
- ISO 4684 - Determination of volatile matter
Keywords: EN ISO 17075-2:2017, ISO 17075-2, chromium(VI) in leather, leather testing, ion-exchange chromatography, HPLC, Cr(VI) analysis, extraction pH.
