The Analytical Laboratory is pleased to announce that Dimethylformamide (DMF) testing is now available from our on site fully equipped state of the art laboratory here in Birmingham. It is expected that DMF will be included on the SVHC Authorisation List (Banned for production or use in the EU) in February 2015, many retailers and suppliers are therefore already getting prepared and have stated their need to check if their items are compliant. The Analytical Laboratory has responded to this need by launching an in house test that can be completed in just 3 working days.  What is Dimethylformamide (DMF)? Dimethylformamide is an organic compound used as an industrial solvent and in the production of fibres, films and surface coatings. This colourless liquid is miscible with water and the majority of organic liquids. Dimethylformamide is odourless whereas technical grade or degraded sample residues in finished products often have a fishy smell. Where is Dimethylformamide found? This substance is used mainly as a solvent in polyurethane coated textiles such as:

• Artificial Leather
• Rain and protection wear
• Footwear
• Medical Mattress covers

It can also be found in: Prints – PU and PVC based prints Adhesives – Used as a solvent in adhesives Foams – PU based foams Paints – thinner in paints Plastics – solvent used in the production of plastics Synthetic Fibres - solvent in the production of synthetic fibres Why is Dimethylformamide harmful? DMF has been linked to cancer in humans, and it is thought to be a reprotoxin and therefore is toxic to reproduction and may harm the unborn child causing birth defects. DMF is also a skin and eye irritant and harmful by inhalation.   Because it may cause harm to the unborn child it is classified as a CMR substance category 2. Legislation Substances of Very High Concern In Dec 2012 DMF was classified as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) under the REACH Regulation (1907/2006) and placed on the Candidate List. It is expected that DMF will be included on the Authorisation List (Banned for production or use in the EU) in February 2015. Restrictions under REACH DMF has also been put forward for restriction for use in mixtures of paints / paint strippers.  Full details of this restriction are expected January 2015.  The restriction would cover marketing of articles (paints /paint strippers) containing DMF in concentrations exceeding levels to be specified, and processes and professional uses, where risks are identified. As a result of these restrictions many retailers have banned DMF from being used in their articles.       Dimethylformamide Testing at The Analytical Laboratory The Analytical Laboratory is pleased to announce that Dimethylformamide testing is now available from our on site fully equipped state of the art laboratory here in Birmingham. Contact The Analytical Laboratory today for more information and to request your Dimethylformamide testing:  W: www.thelaboratory.co.uk      T: 0121 262 1017    E: testing@theassayoffice.co.uk

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