LEAP Testing Service

NEW TESTS, STANDARDS ON THE HORIZON.

In the next few months the LEAP Testing Service may be offering two new tests for our customers. These tests are being developed by the ASTM and may be voted upon and adopted as new test methods or standards.

The first method is the “Standard Test Method for the Immunological Measurement of Allergenic Protein in Natural Rubber and Its Products” which uses monoclonal antibodies to quantitate the levels of 4 of the most common latex allergens. This method is based on the “Fit Kit” ELISA developed by T. Palosuo. This method differs from the ASTM D6499-03 standard, in that it specifically measures the levels of 4 latex allergens which are a subset of the total latex antigens. The D6499-03 standard measures the levels of total latex antigens.

The second is “Colorimetric Test Method to Quantify Extractable Chemical Dialkyldithiocarbamate, Thiuram, and Mercaptobenzothiazole Accelerators in Rubber Products” or Chemical Sensitivity test method. The purpose of this test method is to test for residual chemicals (Vulcanization accelerators) in latex products. Studies have shown that these chemicals are responsible for allergic contact dermatitis.

Both methods have to be voted on before becoming adopted standards or test methods. The “Standard Test Method for the Immunological Measurement of Allergenic Protein in Natural Rubber and Its Products” will most likely be voted on first, sometime in early 2008. We do not expect the chemical sensitivity to be voted upon at this time but believe that it eventually will be brought before the committee in the not too distant future.

If you have questions about these tests please contact us by phone or email and we will give you more information.