Regarding Packaging Directive 94/62, TC2 of ICG published an improved method for the determination of hexavalent chromium in glass. Because such measurements require specific operator care and skill, the use of a reference material was strongly recommended as a crucial tool to improve measurement quality. As part of a certification programme jointly supported by BAM (Bundesanstalt fur Materialforschung) & ICG, a candidate reference material was identified in the form of a set of perfume bottles of industrial production. A preliminary homogeneity test of total chromium distribution was carried out by XRF assuming that hexavalent chromium was similarly distributed. Small but significant inhomogeneities detected in the bottles suggested that sample crushing could contribute to improving homogeneity of the material. A subsequent test of total chromium distribution on the crushed glass, and a shortened homogeneity test of Cr(VI) distribution on a limited number of randomly selected sub-samples suggested that the crushed material was suitable for certification.
