India has launched a consultation to update standards for titanium (rutile grade) and barium sulphate pigments, both of which are used in paints and varnishes. The draft amended standards, which were published on April 27 by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), establish comment dates of:
Both chemicals should have no more than 90ppm lead or lead compounds, according to the draft. Also, separately or in combination, limiting the following substances in them to a maximum of 0.1 percent by weight:
For barytes (naturally occurring barium sulphate) and blanc fixe pigments, the draft offers requirements as well as sampling and testing techniques (the precipitated barium sulphate). The substance is designed to be used as a paint extender. The substance, according to the draft, is:
The titanium dioxide (rutile grade) draft establishes sampling and testing standards for rutile titanium dioxide, which is used as a pigment in the paint industry. It also suggests that:
Both drafts recommend that packaging be marked or labelled with the following information:
If the draft is approved, BIS will certify products that meet their requirements and place a conformity mark on the packaging.