ISO 22927:2021
(Main)Rare earth — Packaging and labelling
Rare earth — Packaging and labelling
This document specifies requirements and recommendations for the packaging and labelling of rare earth ores, concentrates, compounds, metals and alloys that are intended for sale or free distribution. It defines the performance and structure of packaging, and specifies the information to include on the labelling. These requirements and recommendations are designed to ensure quality assurance, enhance safety and prevent environmental pollution during the transportation and storage of rare earth products. This document is applicable to packaging and labelling during transactions between companies. It does not include packaging by companies during storage in their own plant. The method of labelling defined in this document enhances safety by indicating properties of rare earth products and ensures appropriate management of the product by indicating the identity of suppliers.
Terres rares — Emballage et étiquetage
General Information
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Standards Content (Sample)
INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 22927
First edition
2021-06
Rare earth — Packaging and labelling
Terres rares — Emballage et étiquetage
Reference number
ISO 22927:2021(E)
©
ISO 2021
---------------------- Page: 1 ----------------------
ISO 22927:2021(E)
COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DOCUMENT
© ISO 2021
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting
on the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address
below or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: +41 22 749 01 11
Email: copyright@iso.org
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2021 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 2 ----------------------
ISO 22927:2021(E)
Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Packaging . 2
4.1 General principles of packaging . 2
4.2 Requirements and recommendations for packaging . 2
4.2.1 Inner (and intermediate) packaging . . 2
4.2.2 Outer packaging . 3
4.3 Requirements and recommendations for packaging of rare earth products . 4
4.3.1 Rare earth ore . 4
4.3.2 Rare earth concentrate . 4
4.3.3 Rare earth compound . 4
4.3.4 Rare earth metal and alloy . 5
5 Labelling . 6
5.1 General principles of labelling . 6
5.2 Product information . 6
5.3 Requirements and recommendations for labelling of hazardous materials . 7
5.3.1 General . 7
5.3.2 Cerium metal and cerium-containing flammable alloys. 7
5.3.3 Metals and alloys in the form of powder . 7
5.3.4 Products containing radioactive elements . 7
5.4 Format of labels on packages . 7
5.4.1 Product information . 7
5.4.2 Language . 7
5.4.3 Quality of the label . 7
5.4.4 Format of the label . 7
Annex A (Informative) Chemical characteristics of rare earth products . 9
Bibliography .12
© ISO 2021 – All rights reserved iii
---------------------- Page: 3 ----------------------
ISO 22927:2021(E)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www .iso .org/ directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www .iso .org/ patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to the
World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see www .iso .org/
iso/ foreword .html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 298, Rare earth.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www .iso .org/ members .html.
iv © ISO 2021 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 4 ----------------------
ISO 22927:2021(E)
Introduction
The purpose of this document is to ensure quality assurance, enhanced safety and pollution prevention
during the global trade of rare earth products.
Rare earth products (ores, concentrates, compounds, metals and alloys) have some unique chemical
and physical properties. For example, some rare earth products can readily react with O , CO and
2 2
moisture. In addition, some rare earth products, such as monazite, can emit radiation because they
contain thorium and uranium. Under certain circumstances, these features can result in accidents or
create hazards (explosion, fire, downgrading the quality of products, radiation exposure, etc.) during
transportation and storage. Indeed, several such incidents have been reported and these emphasize the
possibility of harm to human health, pollution to the environment and a reduction in product quality.
Such problems are likely to have global effects because rare earth products are transported across
borders.
It is necessary to package rare earth products properly. It is also essential to share clearly defined
information, in a readily accessible format, concerning their physical properties and traceability during
global trade. This document provides requirements that will ensure proper packaging and appropriate
labelling of rare earth products. Proper packaging can prevent rare earth products from losing their
quality and causing accidents resulting from unwanted chemical reactions. Appropriate labelling
with precise information on the properties, traceability and the ways of handling the product can also
reduce the risk of quality degradation and accidents. Conforming to this document will contribute to
ensuring quality, guaranteeing safety and preventing environmental pollution during the global trade
of rare earths.
NOTE There are numerous existing regulations concerning the packaging, labelling and shipment of
materials. Depending on circumstances, such regulations can include References [6] to [23]. In addition, local
regulations concerning shipments, transport and packaging can also apply. Many jurisdictions require that a
safety data sheet (SDS) accompany any shipment.
© ISO 2021 – All rights reserved v
---------------------- Page: 5 ----------------------
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 22927:2021(E)
Rare earth — Packaging and labelling
1 Scope
This document specifies requirements and recommendations for the packaging and labelling of rare
earth ores, concentrates, compounds, metals and alloys that are intended for sale or free distribution.
It defines the performance and structure of packaging, and specifies the information to include on
the labelling. These requirements and recommendations are designed to ensure quality assurance,
enhance safety and prevent environmental pollution during the transportation and storage of rare
earth products.
This document is applicable to packaging and labelling during transactions between companies. It does
not include packaging by companies during storage in their own plant.
The method of labelling defined in this document enhances safety by indicating properties of rare earth
products and ensures appropriate management of the product by indicating the identity of suppliers.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 21067-1, Packaging — Vocabulary — Part 1: General terms
ISO 22444-1, Rare earth — Vocabulary — Part 1: Minerals, oxides and other compounds
ISO 22444-2, Rare earth — Vocabulary — Part 2: Metals and their alloys
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 21067-1, ISO 22444-1,
ISO 22444-2 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at http:// www .electropedia .org/
3.1
supplier
company that produces and provides rare earth ores, concentrates, compounds, metals, alloys or
solutions for its customer
Note 1 to entry: It includes the mines, beneficiation plants, hydrometallurgical plants, traders/brokers/blenders
of rare earth products.
3.2
inner packaging
container designed to come into direct contact with the product
3.3
intermediate packaging
packaging placed between the inner packaging (3.2) and outer packaging (3.4) if deemed necessary
© ISO 2021 – All rights reserved 1
---------------------- Page: 6 ----------------------
ISO 22927:2021(E)
3.4
outer packaging
container designed to contain inner or intermediate packaging (3.3) including any protective materials
where required
3.5
protecting gas
shielding gas
gas used in packaging that will displace oxygen and water vapour and will not react with the package
contents, and will therefore prevent product degradation and chemical reaction
EXAMPLE Argon, nitrogen.
3.6
protecting liquid
oil or other liquid used as coating on, or to totally submerge, a product to isolate it from air and ensure
quality stability
Note 1 to entry: It is usually used in the packaging of rare earth target products.
3.7
vacuum
space where the air has been removed from the package before sealing
3.8
minimum packaging unit
smallest independent unit for sales and delivery, where items/products cannot be broken up
4 Packaging
4.1 General principles of packaging
Packaging for rare earth products should prevent the products from being accidentally dispersed or
otherwise discharged into the environment and from absorbing moisture or gases. Solid rare earth
metals and compounds can react with water, water vapour and other gases, causing damage to the
quality of products, exothermic reaction and ignition. For these reasons, a sealed package should be
used to contain solid rare earth products, including powders. Rare earth liquid products can flow out
of the packaging if a package loses its integrity, causing potential damage to products, workers and
surroundings. For these reasons, durable packaging should be used. This clause specifies requirements
and recommendations for packaging appropriate to the properties of the rare earth product, including
ores, concentrates, compounds, metals, alloys and solutions (see Annex A for additional information
on the chemical characteristics of rare earth products and key information related to packaging and
labelling).
Within each minimum packaging unit, products should be of the same batch, grade, specification and
form. In the case of different batches of products put in the same minimum packaging unit, they should
be separately packaged with clear identification to avoid mixing of products.
4.2 Requirements and recommendations for packaging
4.2.1 Inner (and intermediate) packaging
4.2.1.1 Polymer bottles
Polymer bottles are vessels made from polymer, having a comparatively narrow neck or mouth, with
closure and usually no handle. They should have a load-bearing capacity depending on the content and
the polymer should be chemically compatible.
2 © ISO 2021 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 7 ----------------------
ISO 22927:2021(E)
4.2.1.2 Glass bottles
Glass bottles are rigid vessels made from borosilicate glass, having a comparatively narrow neck or
mouth, with a closure and usually no handle. They should have load-bearing capacity depending on the
content.
4.2.1.3 Polymer film bags
Polymer film bags are flexible containers made of polymer layers, generally enclosed on all sides except
one, forming an opening that is sealed after filling. They should have load-bearing capacity depending
on the content and should be chemically compatible.
4.2.1.4 Aluminized polymer bags
Aluminized polymer bags are flexible containers made from polymer film metallized with aluminium,
which reduces the permeability of the polymer film to the external atmosphere. They may be used as
inner or intermediate packaging for some rare earth metals and their alloys (such as cerium and cerium
alloy). They should have a load-bearing capacity depending on the content and should be chemically
compatible.
4.2.2 Outer packaging
4.2.2.1 Metal drums
Metal drums are cylindrical vessels made from iron, steel or alloys whose bottom end is permanently
fixed to the body. The top-end (head) is either removable or non-removable. Steel drums with a
capacity of over 200 l used for rare earth product packaging should meet the requirements specified in
ISO 15750-1, ISO 15750-2 and ISO 15750-3. Steel drums with a capacity of less than 200 l used for rare
earth product packaging should have load-bearing capacity depending on the content and should be
chemically compatible or else an appropriate inner package should be used.
4.2.2.2 Polymer drums
Polymer drums are cylindrical vessels made from polymer whose bottom end is permanently fixed
to the body. The top-end (head) is either removable or non-removable. They should have load-bearing
capacity depending on the content and should be chemically compatible or else an appropriate inner
package should be used.
4.2.2.3 Flexible containers
Flexible containers are containers made from a flexible material that are collapsible when empty.
Flexible intermediate bulk containers used for rare earth products packaging should meet the
requirements given in ISO 21898.
4.2.2.4 Polymer bulk containers
Polymer bulk containers are vessels made from polymer, designed to contain liquids, pastes or powders.
They should have load-bearing capacity depending on the content and should be chemically compatible
or an appropriate inner package used.
4.2.2.5 Corrugated fibreboard boxes
Corrugated fibreboard boxes consist of one or more fluted paper sheets glued to a flat sheet of board or
between several sheets. They should have load-bearing capacity depending on the content and should
be chemically compatible or else an appropriate inner package should be used.
© ISO 2021 – All rights reserved 3
---------------------- Page: 8 ----------------------
ISO 22927:2021(E)
4.2.2.6 Kraft bags
Kraft bags are flexible containers made from paper made using the kraft process and are generally
enclosed on all sides except one, forming an opening that may or may not be sealed after filling. They
should have load-bearing capacity depending on the content and should be chemically compatible or
else an appropriate inner package should be used.
4.2.2.7 Wooden/plywood drums or containers
Drums or containers made of wood/plywood and with a top-end (head) that can be removed. They can
be used as outer packaging for rare earth products. They should have load-bearing capacity depending
on the content and should be chemically compatible or else an appropriate inner package should be
used.
4.3 Requirements and recommendations for packaging of rare earth products
4.3.1 Rare earth ore
In most cases, there are no special requirements for packaging ore. Consideration should be given to
the use of flexible containers under special circumstances. Regarding those ores with a certain level of
radioactivity, dust-tight flexible containers or polymer film bags should be used and the radioactivity
on the outside surface of the packaging should take into account the requirements of the International
Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) (see
References [6], [8], [12], [13], [14], [16] and [17]).
4.3.2 Rare earth concentrate
Flexible containers with a dust-tight integral liner should be used for the outer packaging.
4.3.3 Rare earth compound
4.3.3.1 Oxide
Some rare earth oxide (REO) powders can react with moisture or carbon dioxide in the air and form
hydroxides or carbonates or become deliquescent. REOs shall be sealed in an airtight and waterproof
package. Polymer bottles or polymer film bags should be used for the inner package. Steel drums,
polymer drums, flexible containers, polymer bulk containers, corrugated fibreboard boxes, kraft bags
or wooden/fibreboard drums should be used for the outer package.
4.3.3.2 Salts and other compounds
4.3.3.2.1 In solid-state
Most rare earth salts and compounds are in the form of dry powder, granules or solid blocks. They are
usually chemically stable, but most can absorb moisture and become deliquescent. Suitable packaging
should be used depending on their chemical characteristics. Instructions for packaging of typical rare
earth compounds are provided in Table 1.
4 © ISO 2021 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 9 ----------------------
ISO 22927:2021(E)
Table 1 — Instructions for packaging of typical solid rare earth salts and compounds
Instructions for
Type Remarks
inner packaging intermediate packaging outer packaging
Carbonate waterproof and polymer bottles, polymer corrugated fibreboard
airtight package film bags or glass bottles boxes, steel drums,
a
Chloride
flexible containers,
Hydroxide
kraft bags or wooden/
plywood drums
Fluoride
a
Nitrate
a
Sulfate
Oxalate
a
A
...
FINAL
INTERNATIONAL ISO/FDIS
DRAFT
STANDARD 22927
ISO/TC 298
Rare earth — Packaging and labelling
Secretariat: SAC
Voting begins on:
20210303
Voting terminates on:
20210428
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED TO
SUBMIT, WITH THEIR COMMENTS, NOTIFICATION
OF ANY RELEVANT PATENT RIGHTS OF WHICH
THEY ARE AWARE AND TO PROVIDE SUPPOR TING
DOCUMENTATION.
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS
Reference number
BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL, TECHNO
ISO/FDIS 22927:2021(E)
LOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND USER PURPOSES,
DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS MAY ON
OCCASION HAVE TO BE CONSIDERED IN THE
LIGHT OF THEIR POTENTIAL TO BECOME STAN
DARDS TO WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE MADE IN
©
NATIONAL REGULATIONS. ISO 2021
---------------------- Page: 1 ----------------------
ISO/FDIS 22927:2021(E)
COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DOCUMENT
© ISO 2021
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting
on the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address
below or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: +41 22 749 01 11
Email: copyright@iso.org
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2021 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 2 ----------------------
ISO/FDIS 22927:2021(E)
Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Packaging . 2
4.1 General principles of packaging . 2
4.2 Requirements and recommendations for packaging . 2
4.2.1 Inner (and intermediate) packaging . . 2
4.2.2 Outer packaging . 3
4.3 Requirements and recommendations for packaging of rare earth products . 4
4.3.1 Rare earth ore . 4
4.3.2 Rare earth concentrate . 4
4.3.3 Rare earth compound . 4
4.3.4 Rare earth metal and alloy . 5
5 Labelling . 6
5.1 General principles of labelling . 6
5.2 Product information . 6
5.3 Requirements and recommendations for labelling of hazardous materials . 7
5.3.1 General . 7
5.3.2 Cerium metal and cerium contained flammable alloys . 7
5.3.3 Metals and alloys in the form of powder . 7
5.3.4 Products containing radioactive elements . 7
5.4 Format of labels on packages . 7
5.4.1 Product information . 7
5.4.2 Language . 7
5.4.3 Quality of the label . 7
5.4.4 Format of the label . 7
Annex A (Informative) Chemical characteristics of rare earth products . 9
Bibliography .12
© ISO 2021 – All rights reserved iii
---------------------- Page: 3 ----------------------
ISO/FDIS 22927:2021(E)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and nongovernmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www .iso .org/ directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www .iso .org/ patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to the
World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see www .iso .org/
iso/ foreword .html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 298, Rare earth.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www .iso .org/ members .html.
iv © ISO 2021 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 4 ----------------------
ISO/FDIS 22927:2021(E)
Introduction
The purpose of this document is to ensure quality assurance, enhanced safety and pollution prevention
during the global trade of rare earth products.
Rare earth products (ores, concentrates, compounds, metals and alloys) have some unique chemical
and physical properties. For example, some rare earth products can readily react with O , CO and
2 2
moisture. In addition, some rare earth products, such as monazite, can emit radiation because they
contain thorium and uranium. Under certain circumstances, these features can result in accidents or
create hazards (explosion, fire, downgrading the quality of products, radiation exposure, etc.) during
transportation and storage. Indeed, several such incidents have been reported and these emphasize the
possibility of harm to human health, pollution to the environment and a reduction in product quality.
Such problems are likely to have global effects because rare earth products are transported across
borders.
It is necessary to package rare earth products properly. It is also essential to share clearly defined
information, in a readily accessible format, concerning their physical properties and traceability during
global trade. This document provides requirements that will ensure proper packaging and appropriate
labelling of rare earth products. Proper packaging can prevent rare earth products from losing their
quality and causing accidents resulting from unwanted chemical reactions. Appropriate labelling
with precise information on the properties, traceability and the ways of handling the product can also
reduce the risk of quality degradation and accidents. Conforming to this document will contribute to
ensuring quality, guaranteeing safety and preventing environmental pollution during the global trade
of rare earths.
NOTE There are numerous existing regulations concerning the packaging, labelling and shipment of
materials. Depending on circumstances, such regulations can include References [6] to [23]. In addition, local
regulations concerning shipments, transport and packaging can also apply. Many jurisdictions require that a
safety data sheet (SDS) accompany any shipment.
© ISO 2021 – All rights reserved v
---------------------- Page: 5 ----------------------
FINAL DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/FDIS 22927:2021(E)
Rare earth — Packaging and labelling
1 Scope
This document specifies requirements and recommendations for the packaging and labelling of rare
earth ores, concentrates, compounds, metals and alloys that are intended for sale or free distribution.
It defines the performance and structure of packaging, and specifies the information to include on
the labelling. These requirements and recommendations are designed to ensure quality assurance,
enhance safety and prevent environmental pollution during the transportation and storage of rare
earth products.
This document is applicable to packaging and labelling during transactions between companies. It does
not include packaging by companies during storage in their own plant.
The method of labelling defined in this document enhances safety by indicating properties of rare earth
products and ensures appropriate management of the product by indicating the identity of suppliers.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 210671, Packaging — Vocabulary — Part 1: General terms
ISO 224441, Rare earth — Vocabulary — Part 1: Minerals, oxides and other compounds
ISO 224442, Rare earth — Vocabulary — Part 2: Metals and their alloys
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 21067-1, ISO 22444-1,
ISO 22444-2 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at http:// www .electropedia .org/
3.1
supplier
company that produces and provides rare earth ores, concentrates, compounds, metals, alloys or
solutions for its customer
Note 1 to entry: It includes the mines, beneficiation plants, hydrometallurgical plants, traders/brokers/blenders
of rare earth products.
3.2
inner packaging
container designed to come into direct contact with the product
3.3
intermediate packaging
packaging placed between the inner packaging (3.2) and outer packaging (3.4) if deemed necessary
© ISO 2021 – All rights reserved 1
---------------------- Page: 6 ----------------------
ISO/FDIS 22927:2021(E)
3.4
outer packaging
container designed to contain inner or intermediate packaging (3.3) including any protective materials
where required
3.5
protecting gas
shielding gas
gas used in packaging that will displace oxygen and water vapour and will not react with the package
contents, and will therefore prevent product degradation and chemical reaction
EXAMPLE Argon, nitrogen.
3.6
protecting liquid
oil or other liquid used as coating on, or to totally submerge, a product to isolate it from air and ensure
quality stability
Note 1 to entry: It is usually used in the packaging of rare earth target products.
3.7
vacuum
device to remove air from the package before sealing
3.8
minimum packaging unit
smallest independent unit for sales and delivery, where items/products cannot be broken up
4 Packaging
4.1 General principles of packaging
Packaging for rare earth products should prevent the products from being accidentally dispersed or
otherwise discharged into the environment and from absorbing moisture or gases. Solid rare earth
metals and compounds can react with water, water vapour and other gases, causing damage to the
quality of products, exothermic reaction and ignition. For these reasons, a sealed package should be
used to contain solid rare earth products. Rare earth liquid products can flow out of the packaging if a
package loses its integrity, causing potential damage to products, workers and surroundings. For these
reasons, durable packaging should be used. This clause specifies requirements and recommendations
for packaging appropriate to the properties of the rare earth product, including ores, concentrates,
compounds, metals, alloys and solutions (see Annex A for additional information on the chemical
characteristics of rare earth products and key information related to packaging and labelling).
Within each minimum packaging unit, products should be of the same batch, grade, specification and
form. In the case of different batches of products put in the same minimum packaging unit, they should
be separately packaged with clear identification to avoid mixing of products.
4.2 Requirements and recommendations for packaging
4.2.1 Inner (and intermediate) packaging
4.2.1.1 Polymer bottles
Polymer bottles are vessels made from polymer, having a comparatively narrow neck or mouth, with
closure and usually no handle. They should have a load-bearing capacity depending on the content and
the polymer should be chemically compatible.
2 © ISO 2021 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 7 ----------------------
ISO/FDIS 22927:2021(E)
4.2.1.2 Glass bottles
Glass bottles are rigid vessels made from borosilicate glass, having a comparatively narrow neck or
mouth, with a closure and usually no handle. They should have load-bearing capacity depending on the
content.
4.2.1.3 Polymer film bags
Polymer film bags are flexible containers made of polymer layers, generally enclosed on all sides except
one, forming an opening that is sealed after filling. They should have load-bearing capacity depending
on the content and should be chemically compatible.
4.2.1.4 Aluminized polymer bags
Aluminized polymer bags are flexible containers made from polymer film metallized with aluminium,
which reduces the permeability of the polymer film to the external atmosphere. They may be used as
inner or intermediate packaging for some rare earth metals and their alloys (such as cerium and cerium
alloy). They should have a load-bearing capacity depending on the content and should be chemically
compatible.
4.2.2 Outer packaging
4.2.2.1 Metal drums
Metal drums are cylindrical vessels made from iron, steel or alloys whose bottom end is permanently
fixed to the body. The top-end (head) is either removable or non-removable. Steel drums with a
capacity of over 200 l used for rare earth product packaging should meet the requirements specified in
ISO 15750-1, ISO 15750-2 and ISO 15750-3. Steel drums with a capacity of less than 200 l used for rare
earth product packaging should have load-bearing capacity depending on the content and should be
chemically compatible or else an appropriate inner package should be used.
4.2.2.2 Polymer drums
Polymer drums are cylindrical vessels made from polymer whose bottom end is permanently fixed
to the body. The top-end (head) is either removable or non-removable. They should have load-bearing
capacity depending on the content and should be chemically compatible or else an appropriate inner
package should be used.
4.2.2.3 Flexible containers
Flexible containers are containers made from a flexible material that are collapsible when empty.
Flexible intermediate bulk containers used for rare earth products packaging should meet the
requirements given in ISO 21898.
4.2.2.4 Polymer bulk containers
Polymer bulk containers are vessels made from polymer, designed to contain liquids, pastes or powders.
They should have load-bearing capacity depending on the content and should be chemically compatible
or an appropriate inner package used.
4.2.2.5 Corrugated fibreboard boxes
Corrugated fibreboard boxes consist of one or more fluted paper sheets glued to a flat sheet of board or
between several sheets. They should have load-bearing capacity depending on the content and should
be chemically compatible or else an appropriate inner package should be used.
© ISO 2021 – All rights reserved 3
---------------------- Page: 8 ----------------------
ISO/FDIS 22927:2021(E)
4.2.2.6 Kraft bags
Kraft bags are flexible containers made from paper made using the kraft process and are generally
enclosed on all sides except one, forming an opening that may or may not be sealed after filling. They
should have load-bearing capacity depending on the content and should be chemically compatible or
else an appropriate inner package should be used.
4.2.2.7 Wooden/plywood drums or containers
Drums or containers made of wood/plywood and with a top-end (head) that can be removed. They can
be used as outer packaging for rare earth products. They should have load-bearing capacity depending
on the content and should be chemically compatible or else an appropriate inner package should be used.
4.3 Requirements and recommendations for packaging of rare earth products
4.3.1 Rare earth ore
In most cases, there are no special requirements for packaging ore. Consideration should be given to
the use of flexible containers under special circumstances. Regarding those ores with a certain level of
radioactivity, dust-tight flexible containers or polymer film bags should be used and the radioactivity
on the outside surface of the packaging should take into account the requirements of the International
Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) (see
References [6], [8], [12], [13], [14], [16] and [17]).
4.3.2 Rare earth concentrate
Flexible containers with a dust-tight integral liner should be used for the outer packaging.
4.3.3 Rare earth compound
4.3.3.1 Oxide
Some rare earth oxide powders can react with moisture or carbon dioxide in the air and form hydroxides
or carbonates or become deliquescent. Rare earth oxides shall be sealed in an airtight and waterproof
package. Polymer bottles or polymer film bags should be used for the inner package. Steel drums,
polymer drums, flexible containers, polymer bulk containers, corrugated fibreboard boxes, kraft bags
or wooden/fibreboard drums should be used for the outer package.
4.3.3.2 Salts and other compounds
4.3.3.2.1 In solid-state
Most rare earth salts and compounds are in the form of dry powder, granules or solid blocks. They are
usually chemically stable, but most can absorb moisture and become deliquescent. Suitable packaging
should be used depending on their chemical characteristics. Instructions for packaging of typical rare
earth compounds are provided in Table 1.
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Table 1 — Instructions for packaging of typical solid rare earth salts and compounds
Instructions for
Type Remarks
inner packaging intermediate packaging outer packaging
Carbonate waterproof and polymer bottles, polymer corrugated fibreboard
airtight package film bags or glass bottles boxes, steel drums,
a
Chloride
flexible containers,
Hydroxide
kraft bags or wooden/
plywood drums
Fluoride
a
Nitrate
a
Sulfate
Oxalate
a
Acetate waterproof polymer bottles or corrugated
package polymer film bags fibreboard boxes
Phosphate no special no special requirement no special requirement polymer drums or
requirement polymer bulk
Sulfide
containers can be
Citrate
used as a single
package
Hexaboride
a
These products can be traded as a solid or in solution.
4.3.3.2.2 Aqueous solutions
Many rare earth salts can be dissolved in water to form an aqueous solution, including chloride, nitrate,
acetate and sulfate. A solution of rare earth salt is usually chemically stable and often acidic. It shall
be kept in a corrosion-proof package. Polymer bottles or polymer bulk containers should be used for
the inner package of smaller shipments. Corrugated fibreboard boxes should be used for the outer
package. Polymer drums or polymer bulk containers are recommended as the single package for larger
shipments.
4.3.4 Rare earth metal and alloy
Most rare earth metals and some of their alloys are chemically reactive. They can react with oxygen in
the air and become oxidized on the surface. The reactivity varies greatly for different rare earth metals,
and even for the same metal or its alloy depending on its physical form. Therefore, the packaging
requirements are variable depending on the chemical characteristics. The rare earth metal or its alloy
shall be sealed in a protecting gas atmosphere or in a vacuum. Instructions for the packaging of rare
earth metals and their alloys are provided in Table 2.
Table 2 — Instructions for packaging of typical rare earth metals and their alloys
Instructions for
Type Remarks
intermediate outer
inner packaging
packaging packaging
Rare earth metals polymer film bags polymer film bags steel drums Seal in an inner package in a
and alloys in bulk or aluminized or corrugated protecting gas atmosphere, or
(block, ingot/slab, polymer bags fibreboard in a vacuum, or in a protecting
wire and sheet) boxes liquid; the pressure of the pro
tecting gas shall be kept above
atmospheric pressure or in a
vacuum low enough to prevent
degradation.
Packaging for cerium (UN 1333)
and ferrocerium (UN 1323)
shall take Reference [18] into
account.
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ISO/FDIS 22927:2021(E)
Table 2 (continued)
Instructions for
Type Remarks
intermediate outer
inner packaging
packaging packaging
High purity rare polymer film bags not necessary steel drums Seal in an inner package in a
earth metal or aluminized protecting gas atmosphere, in a
polymer bags vacuum, or in a protecting liq
uid; buffer materials or packing
materials should be put between
the inner and outer packages.
High purity rare polymer film bags not necessary steel drums The product shall be thor
earth target product oughly cleaned and dried in a
vacuum;individual packaging
is required for each product in
a vacuum.
Rare earth polymer film bags not necessary steel drums
magnesium alloy
Rare earth polymer film bags not necessary steel drums
ferrosilicon alloy
Rare earth metals polymer bottles or polymer bottles, steel drums, Seal in a protecting gas atmos
and alloys in pow- polymer film bags polymer film wooden/ phere or in a vacuum to prevent
der form bags, aluminized plywood the products from oxidation.
polymer bags drums, or
All packaging should be
antistatic
antistatic.
plastic bottles
Hydrogen storage polymer bottles or polymer film bags steel drums Seal in a protecting gas atmos
alloy powder polymer film bags phere or in a vacuum to prevent
(LaNi , La Mg , the products from oxidation.
5 2 17
etc.)
5 Labelling
5.1 General principles of labelling
This clause specifies the minimum requirements for labels on packages containing rare earth products.
Suppliers of rare earth ores, concentrates, compounds, metals, alloys and solutions shall follow the
appropriate requirements.
Labels on packages of rare earth ores, concentrates, compounds, metals, alloys and solutions shall
include the product and handling information in order to inform people handling the package and,
therefore, prevent accidents or environmental problems caused by the package being breached and its
contents leaking. In addition, labels on packaging for rare earth ores and concentrates shall include
information that will enable participants in the supply chain to determine the name of the supplier or
source of the material. Both kinds of information shall be included in appropriate labels.
5.2 Product information
Labels on packaging for rare earth ores, concentrates, compounds, metals and alloys should include the
following product information:
a) the name of the product: full name of the product and chemical/molecular formula;
b) the physical form of the product: solid (ingot/block/flake/powder) or liquid;
c) the production batch reference number: an indication noting different batches;
d) the gross mass/net mass: total mass of one package/net mass of each package inside
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ISO/FDIS 22927:2021(E)
e) the date of production and, optionally, the date of packaging: using the YYYY-MM-DD format;
f) the name of the supplier: full name of the supplier, its abbreviation and address if possible;
g) the country of production: full name of the country or an acceptable abbreviation.
5.3 Requirements and recommendations for labelling of hazardous materials
5.3.1 General
Information or a symbol mark shall be used for those rare earth products listed as dangerous materials
according to the regulations of the country of sale, as well as the relevant international organizations
such as International Maritime Organization (IMO), International Air Transport Association (IATA),
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), United Nations (UN), and International Commission
on Radiological Protection (ICRP). The rare earth products that are potentially dangerous, and
requirements for their labelling, are provided in 5.3.2 to 5.3.4.
5.3.2 Cerium metal and cerium contained flammable alloys
Cerium metal and some cerium-containing alloys (cerium content higher than 90 %) are flammable.
Flammable indications shall be given on the label of the outer package.
5.3.3 Metals and alloys in the form of powder
Some rare earth metals and their alloy powders are flammable or even explosive, e.g. rare earth
hydrogen storage alloy powder. Flammable/explosive indications shall be given on the label of the outer
package.
5.3.4 Products containing radioactive elements
Some rare earth ores, mineral concentrates or other products, such as monazite, naturally contain
thorium and uranium, and are therefore radioactive and can be potentially harmful to the health of
human beings. In such cases, a radioactive indication shall be given on the label of the outer package.
5.4 Format of labels on packages
5.4.1 Product information
Labels on packages containing rare earth ores, concentrates, compounds, metals, alloys and solutions
should be put on each outer package, and appropriate inner packages, such that they are readily visible.
Indelible inks should be used in labelling.
5.4.2 Language
The information on the
...
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