GB21550-2008
The restriction of hazardous materials in polyvinyl chloride artificial leather
聚氯乙烯人造革有害物质限量
GB 21550-2008 is a current mandatory Chinese national standard for The restriction of hazardous materials in polyvinyl chloride artificial leather. It appears in the Electronics compliance cluster with a product safety focus and has an implementation date of Mar 1, 2009.
Applicability depends on product scope, certification route, competent authority notices and transition rules. Requst for the translation or verify source before using this record in a compliance decision.
Compliance overview
Scope and applicability
This standard applies to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) artificial leather produced using coating, calendering, or lamination processes, whether foamed or unfoamed, with or without a substrate. It is primarily relevant for industries such as automotive interiors, building decoration, soft furniture, and apparel. It does not apply to non-PVC based synthetic leathers. Compliance is evaluated based on Type Test procedures.
Technical requirements
Chapter 3 of this standard outlines the mandatory limits for hazardous substances in PVC artificial leather. The standard specifically restricts the content of vinyl chloride monomer, soluble heavy metals (including lead and cadmium), and other volatile compounds. Manufacturers must ensure their products do not exceed these specified maximum concentration limits to be legally sold in the Chinese market. These requirements are designed to protect human health and improve living environments, particularly for products in close contact with daily life.
Testing methods
The standard specifies distinct testing methodologies for each restricted substance. Vinyl chloride monomer content is determined according to the method described in GB/T 4615-1984. Soluble heavy metals (lead and cadmium) are measured using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer with a flame atomization system, following an acid extraction process. Other volatile compounds are quantified by measuring mass loss after heating samples in an electric blast drying oven at specific temperatures, as referenced in GB/T 2918-1998.
FAQs
What products are regulated under GB 21550-2008?
It regulates PVC artificial leather used in automotive interiors, furniture, and apparel, specifically limiting hazardous materials like vinyl chloride and heavy metals.
Is GB 21550-2008 a mandatory standard?
Yes, Chapter 3, which specifies the limit requirements for hazardous substances, is mandatory for all relevant products sold in China.
How often should type testing be conducted under this standard?
Under normal production conditions, type testing for hazardous substance limits must be conducted at least once a year, or when new products are developed or production resumes after a 6-month pause.
The summary above provides a high-level overview of GB 21550-2008. To ensure complete compliance for your products entering the Chinese market, a precise and professional translation of the full technical specifications is essential. Purchase our high-quality English translation of GB 21550-2008 today to access all detailed parameters, tables, and testing procedures.
Applicability hints
- Type
- Health and hygiene
- CCS
- Y47
- ICS
- 59.080.40, 83.140
- Competent department
- Ministry of Industry and Information Technology
- Technical committee
- Ministry of Industry and Information Technology