휴대용 XRF를 이용한 서울시 학교 내 어린이용품 중 일부 유해물질 함량 조사

Abstract

Objectives: Excluding in their homes, children spend most of their time at an elementary school, daycare center, and/or kindergarten. For educational or recreational purposes, they make use of many children’s goods at these places. Some children’s goods contain phthalates and heavy metals with polyvinyl chloride (PVC), so due to their physiological and behavioral characteristics children are exposed to high concentrations of phthalates and heavy metals. This study aims to measure PVC and heavy metals, which are harmful substances in children’s goods which can have an effect on children’s health. Methods: Six samples of children’s goods were selected through cases of detected harmful substances and the results of previous research, including assembly blocks, model toys, household toys, bags, indoor play equipment, and floor mats. The selected items were measured using X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), and the presence and content of environmentally harmful substances such as PVC or heavy metals in the materials of children's goods were examined. Results: The highest detection rate for PVC was observed in floor mats, and bags and indoor play equipment were higher than other goods in this regard. The highest detection rate for heavy metals was found in bags, followed by indoor play equipment, assembly blocks, household toys, model toys and floor mats. Except for bags containing heavy metals, five goods showed the highest level of Pb compared to other heavy metals. Floor mats contained the highest level of Pb, Cr, and Cu among all goods. Conclusion: Many children’s goods contain PVC and heavy metals, and high levels of heavy metals have been detected in some goods. It is necessary to manage children’s goods to support their health.