Cadmium (Cd) Determination

Cadmium (Cd) determination is an analysis performed to measure the amount of cadmium in products, environmental samples, or biological materials. Cadmium is a heavy metal that, due to its toxic effects, should not be present above certain limits in products and the environment. In particular, cadmium determination in electronic products, toys, construction materials, as well as food and water samples, is crucial for ensuring product safety and environmental health.

What is Cadmium (Cd) and Why is it Harmful?

Cadmium is a heavy metal widely used in industrial applications, yet it is extremely harmful to health. It is utilized in electronics, plastics, batteries, paint pigments, and coating processes. The harmful effects of cadmium on human health include kidney damage, bone demineralization, respiratory diseases, and an increased risk of cancer. Cadmium accumulates in the environment over time and enters the biological chain, posing threats to both human and animal health. Therefore, it is essential to regularly monitor cadmium levels in products and ensure they do not exceed the established limits.

In Which Areas is Cadmium Determination Performed?

Cadmium determination is carried out in various sectors to ensure product safety:

• Electronics and RoHS Compliance:
  Determining the cadmium content in electronic products and electrical devices is regulated under the RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) directive. In RoHS-compliant products, cadmium must not exceed 0.01% (100 ppm).

• Toys and Children’s Products:
  Cadmium is especially restricted in children’s products. Cadmium analysis is mandatory in toys as per toy safety regulations.

• Construction Materials and Paints:
  The use of cadmium in paints and coating materials is limited due to its harmful effects on both human health and the environment.

• Water and Environmental Samples:
  Cadmium levels in drinking water and environmental samples are analyzed to evaluate water quality and the degree of environmental pollution.

• Food and Agricultural Products:
  Cadmium determination in food products is performed to ensure the safe consumption of agricultural products. It is important in export and import controls to determine cadmium levels.

Methods for Cadmium (Cd) Determination

Cadmium determination is executed using analytical methods that provide high sensitivity, allowing for the detection of even low cadmium concentrations. The primary methods include:

1. Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS)

   • This widely used method determines the amount of heavy metals like cadmium.
   • Cadmium atoms in the sample absorb light at a specific wavelength, and the amount is quantified by measuring this absorption.
   • AAS offers high sensitivity and is effective for detecting low concentrations of cadmium.

2. Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS)

   • GFAAS provides extremely high sensitivity and is capable of measuring very low levels of cadmium.
   • The cadmium-containing sample is exposed to high temperatures in a graphite furnace, and the resulting absorption is measured.
   • It is preferred for cadmium determination in drinking water, food, and environmental samples.

3. Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)

   • ICP-MS is a highly sensitive method that can detect trace elements like cadmium even at very low levels.
   • In this method, the sample is ionized in a plasma, and the cadmium ions are quantified using mass spectrometry.
   • It is among the most sensitive techniques for cadmium determination in environmental, water, food, and biological samples.

4. X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry (XRF)

   • XRF enables rapid and non-destructive detection of cadmium.
   • It is used for surface analyses and preliminary screening, providing quick cadmium analysis for RoHS compliance.
   • For confirmatory analyses, more sensitive methods such as AAS or ICP-MS are preferred.

Cadmium Determination and Legal Regulations

Due to its environmental and health risks, cadmium is subject to numerous legal regulations:

• RoHS Directive (EU):
  The cadmium content in electronic devices must not exceed 0.01%.

• Toy Safety Regulation:
  Cadmium restrictions are strictly applied to toys and children’s products.

• EPA (Environmental Protection Agency):
  Limit values for cadmium in drinking water and environmental samples have been established.

• FDA (Food and Drug Administration):
  Specific limits for cadmium content in food products are in place.

MassLab’s Cadmium (Cd) Determination Services

At MassLab, our cadmium determination services accurately analyze the presence of cadmium in your products. Utilizing modern analytical instruments and an experienced team, we deliver high-precision cadmium analyses for RoHS compliance, toy safety, environmental health, and food safety. Our services help demonstrate that your products meet the required health and safety standards.

For detailed information about MassLab’s cadmium determination services or to request an analysis, please contact us. We ensure that your products comply with global standards through reliable and accurate analysis results.