India to ban heavy metals in Dipentene

A proposed amended standard that would prohibit the use of heavy metals in dipentene, which is used to make paints, enamel, lacquers, and polishes, is being discussed by India until July 25.

The following heavy metals found in dipentene are proposed to be banned by the proposal:

• Cadmium,
• chromium VI,
• arsenic,
• antimony, and their oxides, as well as
• mercury and its derivatives.

Additionally, it states that the total amount of any of them in their natural forms or other contaminants in dipentene cannot be greater than 0.1 percent by weight. The document also suggests establishing a lead content maximum acceptable limit of 90 parts per million (ppm).

Additionally, it advises that packaging be properly sealed and stamped with the following details:

• name of the material 
• name of manufacturer and its recognised trademark if any
• mass of the material 
• lead content (maximum)
• heavy metals content 
• month and year of manufacture 
• lot or batch number and   
• relevant cautionary notes. 

Indian Standard (IS) 644 would undergo its third modification if the draft, which was released by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) in May, is accepted. Products that meet its specifications would be certified by the BIS and have a conformity mark on the packaging.