Overview
ASTM D6016-17(2023): Standard Test Method for Determination of Nitrogen, Water Extractable in Leather establishes a quantitative method for measuring the amount of nitrogen that can be extracted by water from leather. This test targets nitrogen present in water extractable materials such as excess and loosely bound tannins, ammonium salts, and nitrates. As an internationally recognized standard developed under the guidelines of the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee, it ensures uniformity and accuracy in the chemical analysis of leather materials.
Key Topics
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Water Extractable Nitrogen in Leather
The standard specifies procedures to identify and measure nitrogen-containing substances in leather that are soluble in water. Key nitrogen sources include:
- Loosely bound tannins
- Ammonium salts
- Nitrates
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Quantitative Determination
Results are reported as a percentage on a moisture-free basis, ensuring consistency across different laboratories and testing environments.
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Reference to Related Test Methods
- Kjeldahl Apparatus: Utilized for nitrogen content determination
- ASTM D2868: Test method for nitrogen content and hide substance
- ASTM D3495, D2876, D3790: Methods for hexane extraction, water-soluble matter, and moisture content
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Safety and Compliance
Users of this standard must consider necessary safety, health, and environmental practices, as the standard does not address all specific risks associated with the method.
Applications
This test method is widely used in the leather industry and associated sectors for:
Related Standards
Users of ASTM D6016-17(2023) may also reference or need compliance with related ASTM standards, including:
- ASTM D2868 - Test Method for Nitrogen Content (Kjeldahl) and Hide Substance Content
- ASTM D2876 - Test Method for Water-Soluble Matter of Vegetable-Tanned Leather
- ASTM D3495 - Test Method for Hexane Extraction of Leather
- ASTM D3790 - Test Method for Volatile Matter (Moisture) of Leather by Oven Drying
These references provide complementary methods for comprehensive analysis of chemical properties in leather materials.
Practical Value
The ASTM D6016-17(2023) standard offers essential benefits for the global leather industry by:
- Providing a scientifically validated technique to monitor water extractable nitrogen content in leather
- Enhancing product quality, consistency, and reliability in international trade
- Meeting retailer, consumer, and regulatory expectations for safe and compliant leather goods
- Enabling comparative analysis and certification across production sites and markets
By implementing ASTM D6016-17(2023), manufacturers and laboratories strengthen their chemical analysis capability, ensuring that finished leather products are safe, high-quality, and fit for their intended use.
Keywords: ASTM D6016, water extractable nitrogen, leather testing, nitrogen content, chemical analysis, tannins, ammonium salts, nitrates, compliance, quality control, international standards.