Azo Dye Testing

Azo dyes are the major colorants used in the textile industry, allowing for a large spectrum of colors and increased color fastness. They are a large group of synthetic organic dyes that contain Nitrogen as the azo group. Azo dyes are widely used in substrates such as textile fibers, leathers, plastics, papers, hair mineral oils, waxes, foodstuffs and cosmetics. They are potential carcinogens and have been banned in multiple countries worldwide, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan because they were associated with an increased risk of cancer. Textile product that may contain azo dyes must test the item to ensure compliance with all regulations.

STEMart provides comprehensive azo dye testing services to provide inspection reports that meet relevant regulations and international standards, thus proving the quality and safety of textile products.

Test Items

• EN 14362-1: Methods to determine azo colorants accessible with and without extracting the fibers

This standard describes the method to detect concentration levels of certain azo colorants that are restricted during the manufacture or treatment of certain commodities made of textile fibers.

• EN 14362-3: Methods to determine the use of certain azo colorants, which may release 4-aminoazobenzene

It is applicable to the same types of fibers as EN ISO 14362-1, particularly those requiring extraction of the dye (synthetic fibers like polyester and imitation leather) and those not requiring extraction (textiles made of cellulose or protein).

• EN ISO 17234-1: Chemical tests for the determination of aromatic amines certain azo colorants in dyed leathers

This standard outlines the chemical testing methods and procedures to determine certain azo colorants in dyed leathers.

• EN ISO 17234-2: Chemical tests for the determination of 4-aminoazobenzene in dyed leathers

This standard explains the testing methods and procedures specially designed to detect the 4-aminoazobenzene that may be produced in dyed leather products.

For more information about our azo dye testing services, please contact us.