EN 717-3:1996

Overview

EN 717-3:1996 is a European Standard developed by CEN that specifies a method for determining formaldehyde release from uncoated wood-based panels. Known as the flask method, this testing procedure enables manufacturers, regulators, and quality control professionals to measure the formaldehyde emissions from various types of wood-based panels effectively. Formaldehyde release is a key parameter due to its health and environmental impact, making this standard essential for compliance and safety assessment in the wood products industry.

Key Topics

• Formaldehyde release measurement: The standard defines the flask method as a practical approach to quantify formaldehyde emissions.
• Scope: Applicable exclusively to uncoated wood-based panels including particleboards, fiberboards, and plywood without surface treatments.
• Test conditions: The method involves placing a specimen in a sealed flask to capture emitted formaldehyde, which is then measured to assess emission rates.
• Health and safety relevance: Helps ensure that wood panels meet indoor air quality regulations by controlling the amount of formaldehyde released.
• Standardized procedure: Provides consistent and reproducible testing guidelines, vital for cross-industry benchmarking.

Applications

• Quality control in manufacturing: Wood panel producers use EN 717-3:1996 to test batches for formaldehyde emissions, ensuring they meet regulatory limits before market release.
• Regulatory compliance: Assists compliance with European regulations regarding formaldehyde emissions in building materials.
• Product certification: Enables certification bodies to verify the emission level claims made by manufacturers.
• Environmental impact assessment: Supports sustainability and indoor air quality assessments by measuring toxic emissions from wood-based products.
• Research and development: Used in R&D to assess new adhesive formulations or panel constructions aimed at reducing formaldehyde release.

Related Standards

• EN 717-1: Wood-based panels - Determination of formaldehyde release - Part 1: Formaldehyde emission - Test chamber method. This is a complementary method that uses test chambers for measuring formaldehyde.
• EN 717-2: Wood-based panels - Determination of formaldehyde release - Part 2: Formaldehyde emission - Gas analysis method. Another alternative measurement method focusing on gas analysis.
• ISO 12460 series: International standards covering different methods for formaldehyde determination in wood-based panels.
• CEN/TC 112: Technical committee responsible for wood-based panel standards, including formaldehyde emission assessment methods.

By following EN 717-3:1996, stakeholders can ensure reliable formaldehyde emission testing, contributing to safer wood products and compliance with stringent environmental and health regulations. This standard remains a critical reference point for indoor air quality and wood product safety within Europe and beyond.