EN 1246:1998

Overview

EN 1246:1998 is a European standard developed by CEN that defines methods for determining the ash and sulphated ash content in adhesives. This standard applies to both synthetic and natural adhesives, providing a reliable and conventional approach to assess inorganic residues after the combustion of adhesive samples. The accurate measurement of ash content is essential for quality control, formulation verification, and ensuring compliance with product specifications.

Key Topics

• Ash Content Determination
  The standard outlines a conventional method for measuring the total ash content resulting from the combustion of adhesive materials. This helps identify the inorganic residue remaining after organic components have been burned off.

• Sulphated Ash Determination
  EN 1246:1998 specifies a method that includes treatment with sulfuric acid before ignition to determine the sulphated ash content, which is vital for understanding the sulphur-related inorganic compounds within adhesives.

• Scope of Adhesives
  The methods cover both natural adhesives, typically derived from biological sources, and synthetic adhesives, made from chemically formulated polymers.

• Standardized Procedures
  The document provides step-by-step guidance on sample preparation, ignition conditions, and calculation formulas ensuring repeatability and consistency across laboratories.

Applications

• Quality Control
  Manufacturers use EN 1246:1998 methods to verify ash content as a quality parameter in adhesive production, ensuring product consistency and performance.

• Formulation Analysis
  Determining ash and sulphated ash helps in the analysis of adhesive composition, especially to detect fillers or additives that impact end-use properties.

• Regulatory Compliance
  Adhering to EN 1246 ensures compliance with European standards for adhesive materials, which can be critical for market acceptance and legal requirements.

• Research and Development
  Adhesive formulators and R&D teams utilize these ash determination techniques to innovate and optimize adhesive formulations for improved performance.

Related Standards

• EN 1939 - Adhesives - Testing of mechanical properties
  Provides complementary methods for evaluating the physical and mechanical characteristics of adhesives.

• ISO 3451 - Plastics - Determination of Ash
  Though focused on plastics, these methods are related and sometimes referenced for similar ash content analysis in polymer-based adhesives.

• EN 13173 - Adhesives - Sampling for testing
  Describes proper sampling techniques that ensure representative adhesive specimens for testing including ash content.

By following EN 1246:1998, industry professionals can reliably determine the inorganic residue content in adhesives, contributing to product quality assurance and regulatory adherence. This standard plays a crucial role in the adhesive manufacturing and testing process, supporting high standards in adhesive performance and safety.