As of October 1st of this year, all powder mixtures containing at least 1% titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles with an aerodynamic diameter less than ten micrometers (10 µm) are to be marked with a mandatory warning label. This warning is to indicate to the users the risk of respiratory effects of dust particles or droplets, as found in the regulatory EUH211 and the EUH212. With the now published regulation, it will be legally binding to make labeling amendments to every mixture that contains more than 1% TiO2. Industry associations are already advising their members to start relabeling at the earliest opportunity.
A key parameter is the aerodynamic diameter that is not easy to assess. The EN 15051 standard is an internationally accepted standard that determines the dustiness potential of powders and granular material providing information on the inhalable, thoracic and respirable fraction. Within Delft Solids Solutions we have amended this EN 15051 dustiness measurement in a way that we can also quantify the fraction of particles with aerodynamic diameter < 10 µm. The latter is also in line with the new regulations and ECHA and REACH requirements.
Further information on the EN 15051 rotating drum methodology can be found on this page.