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New way of detecting eczema-causing DMFu in leather and footwear developed |
Dimethyl fumarate (DMFu) is prohibited in the European Union because it can cause contact dermatitis, but it is still used in Asia as a fungicide to prevent microorganisms from damaging leather goods in humid climates. Researchers at Igualada School of Engineering (EEI), which is associated with the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), have developed a method to detect the presence of DMFu without damage to the goods. The headspace solid-phase micro extraction (HS-SPME) technique also saves time, reduces chemical use and laboratory waste and gives a greater detection sensitivity. Contact with DMFu, even in small concentrations, can cause skin irritations and eye damage. Source: Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya May 2011
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