Primary Biodegradability Tests for Surfactants in Detergents
Different test methods can be applied to determine the primary biodegradability and residue level of surfactants in detergents. The test methods specified in Annex II within the scope of the "Regulations on Detergents" are as follows:Analytical Methods for Anionic Surfactants
Determination of "Anionic Surfactants" within the scope of the relevant regulation should be done with the "Methylene Blue Active Substance" (MBAS) method as specified in Annex VIII.2. Appropriate instrumental analysis methods such as high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas chromatography (GC) can also be applied in cases where it is not detected by the MBAS method and is considered more accurate in terms of efficiency and accuracy.
Analytical Methods for Nonionic Surfactants
Determination of "Nonionic Surfactants" within the scope of the relevant regulation should be done with the "Bismuth Active Substance" (BIAS) method as specified in Annex VIII.2. In cases where it is not detected by the BIAS method and is considered more accurate in terms of efficiency and accuracy, appropriate instrumental analysis methods such as high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas chromatography (GC) can also be applied.
Analytical Methods for Cationic Surfactants
Determination of "Cationic Surfactants" within the scope of the relevant regulation should be done with the "Disulfin Blue Active Substance" (DBAS) method within the scope of DIN 38 409 standard. Appropriate instrumental analysis methods such as high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas chromatography (GC) can also be applied in cases where it is not detected by the DBAS method and is considered more accurate in terms of efficiency and accuracy.
Analytical Methods for Amphoteric Surfactants
The determination of "Amphoteric Surfactants" within the scope of the relevant regulation is carried out by the DIN 38 409 standard, if cationics are not available, and the Orange II method, if available. Appropriate instrumental analysis methods such as high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas chromatography (GC) can also be applied in cases where it is not detected by the specified test methods and is considered more accurate in terms of efficiency and accuracy.
