This Technical Specification specifies an analytical method for testing food grade, recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET). This analytical method provides / is intended to be used as a quality control check. This test identifies and quantifies certain specified contaminants. Such contaminants are referred to as Marker Compounds.
The analytical method is applicable for use on PET samples and products at all stages in the recycling process and will therefore be useful to recycling companies producing commercial, recycled PET for food contact materials and articles, and the manufacturers of such articles.
This Technical Specification is without prejudice to any existing legislation.
NOTE Marker compounds are known to originate from two sources:
— from the PET material itself (i.e. residual monomers, degradation products or reaction/breakdown products);
— from food products that the PET has contacted during its “first use”.
WARNING – The use of this Technical Specification might involve hazardous materials, operations and equipment.
Persons using this Technical Specification should be familiar with normal laboratory practise. This document does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user to establish appropriate safety and health practises and to ensure compliance with any national regulatory conditions.
IMPORTANT – It is absolutely essential that tests conducted according to this Technical Specification be carried out by suitably trained staff.