4.1 The permissible level of heavy metals in certain coatings is specified by governmental regulatory agencies. This test method provides a fully documented procedure for determining low concentrations of chromium present in both water- and solvent-reducible coatings to determine compliance.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the content of chromium (including chromium oxide) in the range between 0.005 and 1.0 % present in the solids of liquid coatings or in dried films obtained from previously coated substrates. There is no reason to believe that higher levels could not be determined by this test method, provided that appropriate dilutions and adjustments in specimen size and reagent quantities are made.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific hazard statements are given in Section 7.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.