Analysis of Imported Children's Toys for Heavy Metals

Over the past decade the regulations regarding potentially hazardous elements and compounds have increased in scope and decreased the restricted compound limits. Children's consumer products have been an active focus for study and regulations due to their ability to expose infants and children to potentially damaging and dangerous chemicals. In regards to organic chemicals, certain phthalates and BPA have been either restricted or banned in children's plastic products. As for inorganic contaminants, there is a recognized list of toxic metals (As, Pb, Hg, Cr, Cd, Sb) that can be found in children's products. The levels and methods of determination of the concentration of these metals can differ between regulatory agencies and countries.