Toys are a fundamental part of a child’s intellectual development as they grow. Safety protocols are often not enforced in the manufacturing of these toys which leads to a higher risk of exposure to toxic metals. Substantial evidence collected over the years regarding heavy metals found in consumer products has led to changes in safety protocols to achieve appropriate and safe concentration for certain heavy metals. Children are particularly susceptible to the health risks associated with trace metal exposure due to their psychological need for oral stimulation as they explore their senses throughout their early stages of development. High exposure to certain heavy metals can be associated with different health risks in children. Lead (Pb) can cause underdevelopment of the nervous system along with severe organ damage, whereas cadmium (Cd) is considered carcinogenic and can lead to bone softening and hindered brain development in small children. This research studied a variety of children’s toys sold in the North American market aimed at a wide range of ages. Heavy metal concentration in toy samples was analyzed using X-ray Fluorescence Analyzer (XRF) and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). The results are compared to both the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and EU Commission Toy Safety Directive (CTSD) to check for non-compliance.

Heavy metal analysis of toys using XRF and ICP-OES

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.