EN 1186

Chemical Protocol

Verification using en 1186 requires precise preparation of the substrate to represent the commercial converter output. Laboratories submerge sample sections in food simulants such as ethanol, acetic acid, or vegetable oil for defined durations. This extraction process captures the quantity of mass that migrates from the packaging surface into the liquid phase.

Gravimetric analysis determines the total non-volatile residue remaining after evaporation of the simulant. High precision scales measure the dry weight to calculate the milligram per square decimeter loss. Converting plants adjust coating formulations or baseboard treatments when measurements exceed permitted limits.

The method differentiates between total overall migration and specific migration of individual components. Each test mimics worst case scenarios for temperature exposure to ensure that packaging maintains food safety across global supply chains. Validating these results prevents contamination during long periods of shelf storage.

Performance Constraint

Regulatory bodies mandate these quantitative findings to validate the safety of fibre packaging that holds functional barrier coatings. En 1186 provides the quantitative basis for declaration of compliance documents required by supply chain partners. Manufacturers select simulants that match the intended fill application to determine the barrier efficiency of the print substrate.

Accuracy relies on the maintenance of surface integrity during the extraction process to avoid false positive readings from sample edge erosion. Controlled temperature chambers house the assemblies to simulate actual transport heat loads. Data from these cycles confirms that the structural additive or mineral layer effectively prevents leachate diffusion.

The resulting migration value dictates the final suitability of a paper product for direct or secondary food contact.