ISO 12219-3:2012

Interior air of road vehicles - Part 3: Screening method for the determination of the emissions of volatile organic compounds from vehicle interior parts and materials - Micro-scale chamber method

ISO 12219-3:2012 specifies a fast, qualitative and semiquantitative screening method for vapour-phase organic compounds (volatile and some semi-volatile) released from vehicle trim materials under simulated real-use conditions using micro-scale test chambers. This method is intended for evaluating new car interior trim components but can, in principle, also be applied to used car components. Target analytes include VOCs (conventionally defined as organic compounds in the volatility range of n-hexane to n-hexadecane) and volatile carbonyl compounds such as formaldehyde. The specified analytical procedure for VOCs is ISO 16000‑6 and for formaldehyde and some other light carbonyl compounds is ISO 16000‑3. ISO 12219-3:2012 provides third party test laboratories and manufacturing industry with a cost-effective approach for: a) monitoring and screening VOC emissions as part of routine quality control; b) monitoring product uniformity or conformity between formal certification tests; c) comparing emissions from products within a range (e.g. different colours or patterns); d) evaluating prototype, "low-emission" materials or products during development.

Air intérieur des véhicules routiers — Partie 3: Méthode de criblage pour la détermination des émissions de composés organiques volatils des parties et matériaux intérieurs des véhicules — Méthode de la micro-chambre

Notranji zrak v cestnih vozilih - 3. del: Presejalna metoda za določevanje emisij hlapnih organskih spojin iz notranjih delov in materialov - Metoda z mikro komoro

Ta del standarda ISO 12219 določa hitro, kvalitativno in polkvantitativno metodo presejanja za organske spojine v parni fazi (hlapne in nekatere polhlapne), ki se sprostijo iz materialov v notranjosti vozila pod simuliranimi pogoji pri realni uporabi z uporabo mikro preskusnih komor. Ta metoda je namenjena za vrednotenje novih sestavnih delov v notranjosti vozila, vendar jo je načeloma mogoče uporabiti tudi za rabljene avtomobilske dele. Med ciljne analite spadajo hlapne organske spojine (po dogovoru opredeljene kot organske spojine v območju hlapnosti n-heksana do n-heksadekana) in hlapne karbonilne spojine, kot je formaldehid. Analizni postopek za hlapne organske spojine je določen v standardu ISO 16000-6, za formaldehid in nekatere druge lahke karbonilne spojine pa v standardu ISO 16000-3. OPOMBA 1: Analizirati je mogoče tudi nekatere spojine, ki so bolj hlapne kot n-heksan in manj hlapne kot n-heksadekan (za več informacij glej: dodatek D k standardu ISO 16000-6:2011; standard ISO 16017-1;[11] in dodatek E). OPOMBA 2: Pri suhih, homogenih materialih so rezultati preskusov hlapnih organskih emisij, ki so bili opravljeni z mikro komorami na novo proizvedenih izdelkih, v dobri korelaciji s podatki, pridobljenimi z uporabo standardnih (referenčnih) metod in običajnih emisijskih preskusnih komor (standard ISO 12219-4, VDA 276[1] in standard ISO 16000-9[6]) ali preskusnih celic (standard ISO 16000-10[7]). Ugotovljena je bila tudi korelacija s podatki o emisijah, pridobljenimi z uporabo vreč (standard ISO 12219-2). Praksa iz tega dela standarda ISO 12219 torej dopolnjuje obstoječe standarde. Ta del standarda ISO 12219 za preskusne laboratorije tretjih oseb in predelovalno industrijo zagotavlja stroškovno učinkovit pristop za:
a) spremljanje in presejanje emisij hlapnih organskih spojin v okviru rutinskega nadzora kakovosti;
b) spremljanje enotnosti ali skladnosti izdelkov med uradnimi preskusi ustreznosti;
c) primerjavo emisij iz izdelkov iz iste linije (npr. različnih barv ali vzorcev);
d) vrednotenje prototipnih materialov ali izdelkov »z nizko stopnjo emisij« med razvojem.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 06-Jun-2012
• ICS: 13.040.20 - Ambient atmospheres
• ICS: 43.020 - Road vehicles in general
• Technical Committee: ISO/TC 146/SC 6 - Indoor air
• Drafting Committee: ISO/TC 146/SC 6/WG 13 - Joint ISO/TC 146/SC 6 - ISO/TC 22 WG: Determination of volatile organic compounds in car interiors
• Parallel Committee: ISO/TC 22 - Road vehicles
• Current Stage: 9093 - International Standard confirmed
• Start Date: 09-Mar-2023
• Completion Date: 13-Dec-2025
• Ref Project: SIST ISO 12219-3:2013 - Interior air of road vehicles - Part 3: Screening method for the determination of the emissions of volatile organic compounds from vehicle interior parts and materials - Micro-scale chamber method

Overview

ISO 12219-3:2012 - "Interior air of road vehicles - Part 3: Micro-scale chamber method" - specifies a fast, qualitative and semi‑quantitative screening method to assess vapour‑phase organic compound emissions from vehicle interior parts and materials. The standard uses micro‑scale test chambers to simulate real‑use conditions and measure emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) (conventionally n‑hexane to n‑hexadecane volatility range) and volatile carbonyls (for example, formaldehyde). It is intended primarily for new car trim components but can also be applied to used parts.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Purpose: rapid screening of VOC emissions to obtain area‑ or mass‑specific emission rates for comparison and quality checks.
• Target analytes: VOCs and volatile carbonyl compounds (formaldehyde analyzed per ISO 16000‑3; VOCs analyzed per ISO 16000‑6).
• Micro‑scale chamber design: inert, low‑emitting materials (e.g., deactivated glass, coated stainless steel); chambers typically range from about 30 cm³ up to 1 L (example: 44.5 ml).
• Controlled test conditions: stable temperature (±2 °C), controlled air/gas supply and mixing, typical flow rates ~20–500 ml/min; chambers must permit thorough mixing and avoid stagnant volumes.
• Sampling & analysis: active sampling onto sorbents and thermal desorption/GC‑MS or GC‑FID for VOCs (ISO 16000‑6); active sampling for formaldehyde and light carbonyls (ISO 16000‑3).
• Cleaning & QA/QC: chamber cleaning procedures, background monitoring, and control measures to limit contamination; test report and quality assurance clauses are specified.
• Output: semi‑quantitative/qualitative VOC profiles and calculated specific emission rates (see Clause 10 and informative Annexes).

Practical applications

• Routine quality control: fast in‑house screening to monitor production batches and detect outliers.
• Product development: compare prototypes and "low‑emission" materials early in development.
• Comparative testing: evaluate emission differences across colours, finishes or suppliers.
• Pre‑certification screening: monitor product uniformity between full certification tests performed in large chambers or bags.
• Cost‑effective lab testing: third‑party labs and OEMs can use micro‑scale chambers as a rapid, complementary method to larger chamber or bag tests.

Who should use this standard

• Automotive manufacturers (interior materials and trim suppliers)
• Third‑party environmental testing laboratories
• Product development and R&D teams focused on low‑emission interiors
• Quality assurance and regulatory compliance groups monitoring cabin air quality

Related standards

• ISO 12219 series: Part 1 (whole vehicle test chamber), Part 2 (bag method), Part 4 (small chamber method)
• ISO 16000 series: ISO 16000‑6 (VOC sampling/analysis), ISO 16000‑3 (formaldehyde/carbonyls)
• Other reference methods and guidance cited in the standard (e.g., ISO 16000‑9, ISO 16000‑10, ISO 16017)

Keywords: ISO 12219‑3, micro‑scale chamber, VOC emissions, vehicle interior, screening method, formaldehyde, ISO 16000‑6, emissions testing, automotive trim materials.

Standards Content (Sample)

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-april-2013
1RWUDQML]UDNYFHVWQLKYR]LOLKGHO3UHVHMDOQDPHWRGD]DGRORþHYDQMHHPLVLM
KODSQLKRUJDQVNLKVSRMLQL]QRWUDQMLKGHORYLQPDWHULDORY0HWRGD]PLNURNRPRUR
Interior air of road vehicles - Part 3: Screening method for the determination of the
emissions of volatile organic compounds from vehicle interior parts and materials - Micro-
scale chamber method
Air intérieur des véhicules routiers - Partie 3: Méthode de criblage pour la détermination
des émissions de composés organiques volatils des parties et matériaux intérieurs des
véhicules - Méthode de la micro-chambre
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: ISO 12219-3:2012
ICS:
13.040.20 Kakovost okoljskega zraka Ambient atmospheres
43.020 Cestna vozila na splošno Road vehicles in general
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 12219-3
First edition
2012-06-15
Interior air of road vehicles —
Part 3:
Screening method for the determination
of the emissions of volatile organic
compounds from vehicle interior parts and
materials — Micro-scale chamber method
Air intérieur des véhicules routiers —
Partie 3: Méthode de criblage pour la détermination des émissions de
composés organiques volatils des parties et matériaux intérieurs des
véhicules — Méthode de la micro-chambre
Reference number
©
ISO 2012
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from either ISO at the address below or ISO’s
member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
Case postale 56 • CH-1211 Geneva 20
Tel. + 41 22 749 01 11
Fax + 41 22 749 09 47
E-mail [e-mail]
Web www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2012 – All rights reserved

Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction . v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 2
4 Principle . 2
5 Apparatus . 2
6 Test conditions . 3
6.1 Temperature . 4
6.2 Air or gas flow rate through the micro-scale chamber . 4
6.3 Quality of supplied air or gas and background concentration of organic vapours . 4
6.4 Control measures . 4
7 Test specimens . 4
7.1 General . 4
7.2 Preparation of the test specimen . 5
8 Cleaning micro-scale chamber components . 5
9 Test method . 5
9.1 Sampling media . 5
9.2 Measuring background concentrations . 6
9.3 Vapour sampling . 6
9.4 Sealing the vapour sampling devices after gas sample collection . 6
9.5 Analysis of vapour sampling devices . 6
9.6 Storage of the test specimen between emissions tests (if required) . 6
9.7 Cleaning the micro-scale chamber after use . 6
10 Calculation of vapour concentrations and specific emission rates . 7
11 Test report . 8
12 Quality assurance/quality control . 9
Annex A (informative) Micro-scale chamber principles .10
Annex B (informative) Micro-scale chamber — Example 1 .12
Annex C (informative) Micro-scale chamber — Example 2 .14
Annex D (informative) Micro-scale chamber — Example 3 .16
Annex E (informative) Assessment of VOC recoveries .18
Annex F (informative) Calculation of specific emission rates from micro-scale chamber
air concentration .19
Bibliography .21
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.
International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The main task of technical committees is to prepare International Standards. Draft International Standards
adopted by the technical committees are circulated to the member bodies for voting. Publication as an
International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the member bodies casting a vote.
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.
ISO 12219-3 was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 146, Air quality, Subcommittee SC 6, Indoor air, in
collaboration with Technical Committee ISO/TC 22, Road vehicles.
ISO 12219 consists of the following parts, under the general title Interior air of road vehicles:
— Part 1: Whole vehicle test chamber — Specification and method for the determination of volatile organic
compounds in cabin interiors
— Part 2: Screening method for the determination of the emissions of volatile organic compounds from
vehicle interior parts and materials — Bag method
— Part 3: Screening method for the determination of the emissions of volatile organic compounds from
vehicle interior parts and materials — Micro-scale chamber method
— Part 4: Screening method for the determination of the emissions of volatile organic compounds from
vehicle interior parts and materials — Small chamber method
The following part is under preparation:
— Part 5: Screening method for the determination of the emissions of volatile organic compounds from
vehicle interior parts and materials — Static chamber method
iv © ISO 2012 – All rights reserved

Introduction
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are widely used in industry and may be emitted by many everyday products
and materials. They have attracted attention in recent years because of their impact on indoor air quality. After
homes and workplaces, people spend a lot of time in their vehicles. It is important to determine the material
emissions of interior parts and to reduce them to an acceptable level, if required. Therefore it is necessary
to obtain comprehensive and reliable information about the types of organic compounds in the interior air of
vehicles and also their concentrations.
Monitoring emissions from vehicle trim components can be performed in several ways and the approach selected
depends upon the desired outcome and the material type. For example, to obtain emissions data from complete
assemblies (e.g. a dashboard or seat), it is necessary to employ emissions chambers or bags that have sufficient
volume to house the complete assembly (typically >1 m ). Such tests may take several hours or even days to
perform, depending on specified equilibration times and the requirements of the relevant test protocol.
This part of ISO 12219 outlines a method of measuring the types and levels of VOCs emitted using micro-scale
chambers (References [2]–[4]). These allow qualitative and semiquantitative screening of product emissions
after only minutes, rather than hours or days, of equilibration. Their capacity is limited so they are best suited to
small assemblies or representative samples of homogeneous vehicle interior parts and materials. Multiple test
specimens can also be readily evaluated from the same sample if required. Micro-scale chambers can provide
an ideal quick screening tool for quality control of production and other in-house tests by manufacturers. They
offer a complementary approach to large chamber or sampling bag approaches.
[5] [6] [7] [8] [9]
ISO 16000-3, ISO 16000-5, ISO 16000-6, ISO 16000-9, ISO 16000-10, ISO 16000-11, ISO 16000-24,
[10] [11] [12]
ISO 16000-25, as well as ISO 16017-1 and ISO 16017-2, also focus on VOC measurements.
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 12219-3:2012(E)
Interior air of road vehicles —
Part 3:
Screening method for the determination of the emissions of
volatile organic compounds from vehicle interior parts and
materials — Micro-scale chamber method
WARNING — It is the responsibility of the user of this part of ISO 12219 to establish appropriate safety
and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. National
regulations for precautions shall be followed.
1 Scope
This part of ISO 12219 specifies a fast, qualitative and semiquantitative screening method for vapour-phase
organic compounds (volatile and some semi-volatile) released from vehicle trim materials under simulated real-
use conditions using micro-scale test chambers. This method is intended for evaluating new car interior trim
components but can, in principle, also be applied to used car components.
Target analytes include VOCs (conventionally defined as organic compounds in the volatility range of n-hexane
to n-hexadecane) and volatile carbonyl compounds such as formaldehyde. The specified analytical procedure
for VOCs is ISO 16000-6 and for formaldehyde and some other light carbonyl compounds is ISO 16000-3.
NOTE 1 Some compounds more volatile than n-hexane and less volatile than n-hexadecane can also be analysed (for
[11]
more information, see: ISO 16000-6:2011, Annex D; ISO 16017-1; and Annex E).
NOTE 2 For dry, homogeneous materials, results from tests of volatile organic emissions carried out using micro-
scale chambers on newly manufactured products have been found to correlate well with data obtained using standard
[1] [6]
(reference) methods and conventional emission test chambers (ISO 12219-4, VDA 276 and ISO 16000-9 ) or test cells
[7]
(ISO 16000-10 ). Correlation with emission data obtained using bags (ISO 12219-2) has also been reported. The practice
specified in this part of ISO 12219 is therefore complementary to existing standards.
This part of ISO 12219 provides third party test laboratories and manufacturing industry with a cost-effective
approach for:
a) monitoring and screening VOC emissions as part of routine quality control;
b) monitoring product uniformity or conformity between formal certification tests;
c) comparing emissions from products within a range (e.g. different colours or patterns);
d) evaluating prototype, “low-emission” materials or products during development.
NOTE 3 All volatile carbonyl compounds except formaldehyde can be analysed according to ISO 16000-6.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application 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 12219-1, Interior air of road vehicles — Part 1: Whole vehicle test chamber — Specification and method
for the determination of volatile organic compounds in cabin interiors
ISO 16000-3:2011, Indoor air — Part 3: Determination of formaldehyde and other carbonyl compounds —
Active sampling method
ISO 16000-6:2011, Indoor air — Part 6: Determination of volatile organic compounds in indoor and test chamber ®
air by active sampling on Tenax TA sorbent, thermal desorption and gas-chromatography using MS or MS–FID
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 16000-6, ISO 12219-1 and the
following apply.
3.1
vehicle trim component
vehicle interior part or material
4 Principle
The principle of the test is to determine the area (or mass) specific emission rate of VOCs emitted from
automotive products. The test is performed in a micro-scale test chamber at a constant temperature and flow
rate. The surface area (or mass) of the sample in the micro-scale test chamber is constant and, by measuring
the mass or vapour-phase concentrations of emitted compounds, the area (or mass) specific emission rates of
VOCs from the product under test can be determined at a given time, t (see Clause 10).
The results can be used to assess product performance with respect to emission levels — either by comparison
with control levels or by comparing the data with results from other products or batches of product.
5 Apparatus
5.1 General. General specifications and requirements, which apply to all types of micro-scale chambers, are
given in 5.1 to 5.5. General micro-scale chamber principles are also summarized in Annex A and specific micro-
scale chamber examples are given in Annexes B to D.
The following key micro-scale chamber components are required:
— micro-scale chamber apparatus;
— heating mechanism;
— clean gas supply and optional humidification system,
NOTE Most samples contain sufficient inherent humidity to facilitate formaldehyde screening, according to
ISO 16000-3, over the short duration of a micro-scale chamber test. Therefore humidification is normally not required for
this screening method.
— appropriate monitoring and control systems (to ensure that the test is carried out according to specified
conditions);
— appropriate vapour sampling tubes.
5.2 Micro-scale chamber apparatus construction materials. Micro-scale test chambers range in size from
30 cm to 1 l (e.g. 44,5 ml, see Annex B). They are designed to operate at ambient or elevated temperatures and
to permit the testing of vapour-phase organic emissions from various types of vehicle interior trim components,
construction products, and consumer goods.
The micro-scale chamber apparatus can comprise one or multiple sealable, micro-scale chambers constructed
of inert, non-emitting and non-absorbing materials, such as surface-treated (polished) or inert coated stainless
steel or deactivated glass or quartz. In all cases, the requirements specified in 5.4 and 5.5 shall be fulfilled.
Any sealing materials e.g. gaskets or O-rings used for sealing the doors or lids of micro-scale chambers, shall
be low emitting and low absorbing and shall not contribute significantly to the background vapour concentration.
The O-rings or gaskets shall be easily removed to facilitate cleaning or replacement. The micro-scale chambers
shall be easily dismantled and removed from any housings to facilitate cleaning as specified in Clause 8.
2 © ISO 2012 – All rights reserved

5.3 Heating. The micro-scale chambers shall be capable of heating the test specimen to a uniform prescribed
temperature for the duration of the test. The temperature shall be maintained within ±2 °C throughout the entire
procedure (see also 6.1).
To facilitate cleaning (see Clause 8) the micro-scale test chamber should be capable of being heated to
100 °C or more.
5.4 Air or gas supply and mixing facilities. The apparatus shall include a means of supplying pure
(low hydrocarbon content), optionally humidified, air or gas to the micro-scale chamber(s) at a controlled
flow rate (±3 %). The supply air or gas shall not contain any VOCs at levels greater than the micro-scale
chamber background requirements (6.3). Similarly, if the air or gas supply is humidified then the water used for
humidification shall not contain interfering VOCs.
The positioning of the air or gas inlet and outlet, the volume of the micro-scale chamber, and the gas flow rate
should ensure thorough mixing with no volumes of still air or gas within the micro-scale chamber. The air or
gas inlet and outlet are usually positioned at right angles to the sample surface to optimize turbulence. Air or
gas flow rates between 20 ml/min and 500 ml/min are typical for the types of micro-scale chamber described
in Annexes B and C.
NOTE 1 Air is most commonly used, but pure inert gases such as nitrogen or helium are preferred for some applications.
NOTE 2 Turbulence and mixing within the micro-scale chamber examples given in Annexes B and C have been
optimized by minimizing the air volume above the sample surface to 3,2 ml and 7,4 ml, respectively, and by orienting
the inlet and outlet such that air enters and leaves the micro-scale chamber at right angles to the sample surface. In this
configuration, air flow rates in excess of 10 ml/min and 20 ml/min, respectively, are sufficient to ensure turbulence and
mixing as well as eliminating the risk of still air volumes. Note that inadequate turbulence and mixing, if it does occur, is
identified by inadequate analyte recovery (see Annex E.)
5.5 Air or gas leaks. The micro-scale chamber is considered sufficiently leak-free if the inlet carrier air or
gas flow differs from the total outlet air or gas flow by less than 5 %. This should be checked at the start of every
recovery test (Annex E), background test (9.2), and emissions test (9.3).
5.6 Air sampling. Vapours shall be sampled from the micro-scale chamber exhaust by connecting a sample
tube [conditioned sorbent tube for volatile or semi-volatile organics (see ISO 16000-6) or DNPH cartridge or
equivalent for formaldehyde and other volatile carbonyl compounds] to the outlet coupling of the micro-scale
chamber. Micro-scale chambers are typically closed systems in which all of the air or gas entering passes out
into the vapour sampling tube.
®1)
Tenax TA is the most commonly used sorbent for VOCs ranging in volatility from n-hexane to n-hexadecane.
Other sorbents or sorbent combinations are available to extend this volatility range if required: see
[11]
ISO 16000-6:2011, Annex D, ISO 16017-1 and Annex F for more information.
[11]
NOTE 1 Refer to ISO 16000-6:2011, Annex D or ISO 16017-1 for guidance on sorbent selection if VOCs eluting
before n-C need to be analysed.
NOTE 2 Micro-scale chambers typically operate slightly (<20 %) above atmospheric pressure and incorporate
mechanisms for controlling and maintaining gas flow at a constant rate, whether or not a sample tube is attached. Another
benefit of this approach is that, provided all of the exhaust air flow is sampled, it means that a constant air flow can be
maintained through the vapour sampling tubes without using pumps (see Annexes B to D.) This simplifies operation for
routine industrial quality control checks.
6 Test conditions
In general, the following test conditions shall be achieved.
1) Tenax TA® is the trade name of a product supplied by Buchem. This information is given for the convenience of
users of this document and does not constitute an endorsement by ISO of the product named. Equivalent products may be
used if they can be shown to lead to the same results.
6.1 Temperature
Emission rates are specific to a particular temperature, therefore it is essential to maintain a constant
temperature of 65 °C ± 2 °C within the micro-scale chamber throughout the emission test.
Other temperatures may be used depending upon the objectives of the test and the agreement of all parties.
6.2 Air or gas flow rate through the micro-scale chamber
Maintain a constant air or gas flow rate through each individual micro-scale chamber throughout the emission
test. Typical flow rates are of the order of 50 ml/min for screening surface emissions of VOCs. Higher gas flow
rates (e.g. 100 ml/min to 200 ml/min) are normally recommended for testing VOC emissions from bulk materials
where the sample is at the bottom of the micro-scale chamber and a larger micro-scale chamber volume is
exposed. Higher flow rates are also recommended to minimize risk of sink effects when testing higher boiling
semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs).
A flow rate of 250 ml/min is recommended for screening surface emissions of formaldehyde according to
ISO16000-3.
NOTE Lower flow rates or shorter sampling times can be used for screening formaldehyde using micro-scale
chambers; however, ISO 16000-3 detection limits can be compromised as a result.
Analyte recovery tests, such as that described in Annex E, shall be carried out regularly (e.g. once per month)
and used as a check that air turbulence and mixing is adequate, and that there are no significant volumes of
still air. Satisfactory recovery is demonstrated by >80 % recovery on the first sample tube and <20 % recovery
on the second sample tube.
Record the air or gas flow rate and the results of the most recent analyte recovery test.
6.3 Quality of supplied air or gas and background concentration of organic vapours
Background levels of target compounds (including micro-scale chamber artefacts and contaminants in the
supplied air or gas) shall be shown to be below 10 % of measured micro-scale chamber concentrations or
3 3
below 5 µg/m for individual VOC and below 50 µg/m for total volatile organic compound (TVOC), whichever
is higher. Similarly, if humidification is required, any water used shall not contain levels of organic compounds
which could interfere with the results.
6.4 Control measures
Systems for measuring temperature and flow shall be independent of the means of controlling said conditions.
7 Test specimens
7.1 General
This part of ISO 12219 can be applied horizontally, i.e. to a wide range of car trim component materials. Studies
of the emission of vapour-phase organic compounds from vehicle components in micro-scale chambers require
proper handling of the test specimen prior to and during the testing period.
Samples that are taken straight from production to be analysed rapidly in an on-site laboratory should be
placed in suitable clean, airtight, and non-outgassing (non-emitting) containers or packaging. Every sample
shall be treated the same way in terms of type of storage container or packaging, method of test specimen
preparation, and period between sample collection and analysis
4 © ISO 2012 – All rights reserved

If samples are to be stored for longer than 2 h before analysis or if they need to be transported to an off-site
laboratory, more precautions are required with respect to sampling procedures, transport conditions, sample
[8]
storage, test specimen preparation, etc. In this case, advice given in ISO 16000-11 should be followed.
NOTE For heterogeneous materials, it can be necessary to make measurements on multiple test specimens from the
same sample to determine the mean specific emission rate.
7.2 Preparation of the test specimen
Test specimens often need to be cut (sectioned) to fit snugly within the micro-scale emissions chamber, thus
minimizing or eliminating edge effects — see Annexes A to C. This is best performed using a punch to minimize
heat generation. Identify and weigh each test specimen.
NOTE Sawing can heat the sample, which can compromise emissions testing.
For analysis of bulk emissions, sample mass shall be sufficient to determine the mass specific emission rate
with enough sensitivity to meet test objectives.
The period of time between unpacking the sample and preparation of the test specimen shall be as short as
possible, and shall be the same in each case. After preparation of the test specimen, it shall immediately be
placed into the micro-scale chamber. This time shall be regarded as the start time of the emission test, i.e. t = t .
If it is appropriate to measure emissions from the bulk material (e.g. polymer resin pellets, adhesives or
insulation fibres) representative samples can be placed directly into the micro-scale chamber with no additional
preparation steps. If, in real use, only one surface of a material or product is exposed, care should be taken to
prevent emissions from other surfaces and cut edges interfering with the test.
...

INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 12219-3
First edition
2012-06-15
Interior air of road vehicles —
Part 3:
Screening method for the determination
of the emissions of volatile organic
compounds from vehicle interior parts and
materials — Micro-scale chamber method
Air intérieur des véhicules routiers —
Partie 3: Méthode de criblage pour la détermination des émissions de
composés organiques volatils des parties et matériaux intérieurs des
véhicules — Méthode de la micro-chambre
Reference number
©
ISO 2012
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from either ISO at the address below or ISO’s
member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
Case postale 56 • CH-1211 Geneva 20
Tel. + 41 22 749 01 11
Fax + 41 22 749 09 47
E-mail [e-mail]
Web www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2012 – All rights reserved

Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction . v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 2
4 Principle . 2
5 Apparatus . 2
6 Test conditions . 3
6.1 Temperature . 4
6.2 Air or gas flow rate through the micro-scale chamber . 4
6.3 Quality of supplied air or gas and background concentration of organic vapours . 4
6.4 Control measures . 4
7 Test specimens . 4
7.1 General . 4
7.2 Preparation of the test specimen . 5
8 Cleaning micro-scale chamber components . 5
9 Test method . 5
9.1 Sampling media . 5
9.2 Measuring background concentrations . 6
9.3 Vapour sampling . 6
9.4 Sealing the vapour sampling devices after gas sample collection . 6
9.5 Analysis of vapour sampling devices . 6
9.6 Storage of the test specimen between emissions tests (if required) . 6
9.7 Cleaning the micro-scale chamber after use . 6
10 Calculation of vapour concentrations and specific emission rates . 7
11 Test report . 8
12 Quality assurance/quality control . 9
Annex A (informative) Micro-scale chamber principles .10
Annex B (informative) Micro-scale chamber — Example 1 .12
Annex C (informative) Micro-scale chamber — Example 2 .14
Annex D (informative) Micro-scale chamber — Example 3 .16
Annex E (informative) Assessment of VOC recoveries .18
Annex F (informative) Calculation of specific emission rates from micro-scale chamber
air concentration .19
Bibliography .21
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.
International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The main task of technical committees is to prepare International Standards. Draft International Standards
adopted by the technical committees are circulated to the member bodies for voting. Publication as an
International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the member bodies casting a vote.
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.
ISO 12219-3 was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 146, Air quality, Subcommittee SC 6, Indoor air, in
collaboration with Technical Committee ISO/TC 22, Road vehicles.
ISO 12219 consists of the following parts, under the general title Interior air of road vehicles:
— Part 1: Whole vehicle test chamber — Specification and method for the determination of volatile organic
compounds in cabin interiors
— Part 2: Screening method for the determination of the emissions of volatile organic compounds from
vehicle interior parts and materials — Bag method
— Part 3: Screening method for the determination of the emissions of volatile organic compounds from
vehicle interior parts and materials — Micro-scale chamber method
— Part 4: Screening method for the determination of the emissions of volatile organic compounds from
vehicle interior parts and materials — Small chamber method
The following part is under preparation:
— Part 5: Screening method for the determination of the emissions of volatile organic compounds from
vehicle interior parts and materials — Static chamber method
iv © ISO 2012 – All rights reserved

Introduction
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are widely used in industry and may be emitted by many everyday products
and materials. They have attracted attention in recent years because of their impact on indoor air quality. After
homes and workplaces, people spend a lot of time in their vehicles. It is important to determine the material
emissions of interior parts and to reduce them to an acceptable level, if required. Therefore it is necessary
to obtain comprehensive and reliable information about the types of organic compounds in the interior air of
vehicles and also their concentrations.
Monitoring emissions from vehicle trim components can be performed in several ways and the approach selected
depends upon the desired outcome and the material type. For example, to obtain emissions data from complete
assemblies (e.g. a dashboard or seat), it is necessary to employ emissions chambers or bags that have sufficient
volume to house the complete assembly (typically >1 m ). Such tests may take several hours or even days to
perform, depending on specified equilibration times and the requirements of the relevant test protocol.
This part of ISO 12219 outlines a method of measuring the types and levels of VOCs emitted using micro-scale
chambers (References [2]–[4]). These allow qualitative and semiquantitative screening of product emissions
after only minutes, rather than hours or days, of equilibration. Their capacity is limited so they are best suited to
small assemblies or representative samples of homogeneous vehicle interior parts and materials. Multiple test
specimens can also be readily evaluated from the same sample if required. Micro-scale chambers can provide
an ideal quick screening tool for quality control of production and other in-house tests by manufacturers. They
offer a complementary approach to large chamber or sampling bag approaches.
[5] [6] [7] [8] [9]
ISO 16000-3, ISO 16000-5, ISO 16000-6, ISO 16000-9, ISO 16000-10, ISO 16000-11, ISO 16000-24,
[10] [11] [12]
ISO 16000-25, as well as ISO 16017-1 and ISO 16017-2, also focus on VOC measurements.
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 12219-3:2012(E)
Interior air of road vehicles —
Part 3:
Screening method for the determination of the emissions of
volatile organic compounds from vehicle interior parts and
materials — Micro-scale chamber method
WARNING — It is the responsibility of the user of this part of ISO 12219 to establish appropriate safety
and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. National
regulations for precautions shall be followed.
1 Scope
This part of ISO 12219 specifies a fast, qualitative and semiquantitative screening method for vapour-phase
organic compounds (volatile and some semi-volatile) released from vehicle trim materials under simulated real-
use conditions using micro-scale test chambers. This method is intended for evaluating new car interior trim
components but can, in principle, also be applied to used car components.
Target analytes include VOCs (conventionally defined as organic compounds in the volatility range of n-hexane
to n-hexadecane) and volatile carbonyl compounds such as formaldehyde. The specified analytical procedure
for VOCs is ISO 16000-6 and for formaldehyde and some other light carbonyl compounds is ISO 16000-3.
NOTE 1 Some compounds more volatile than n-hexane and less volatile than n-hexadecane can also be analysed (for
[11]
more information, see: ISO 16000-6:2011, Annex D; ISO 16017-1; and Annex E).
NOTE 2 For dry, homogeneous materials, results from tests of volatile organic emissions carried out using micro-
scale chambers on newly manufactured products have been found to correlate well with data obtained using standard
[1] [6]
(reference) methods and conventional emission test chambers (ISO 12219-4, VDA 276 and ISO 16000-9 ) or test cells
[7]
(ISO 16000-10 ). Correlation with emission data obtained using bags (ISO 12219-2) has also been reported. The practice
specified in this part of ISO 12219 is therefore complementary to existing standards.
This part of ISO 12219 provides third party test laboratories and manufacturing industry with a cost-effective
approach for:
a) monitoring and screening VOC emissions as part of routine quality control;
b) monitoring product uniformity or conformity between formal certification tests;
c) comparing emissions from products within a range (e.g. different colours or patterns);
d) evaluating prototype, “low-emission” materials or products during development.
NOTE 3 All volatile carbonyl compounds except formaldehyde can be analysed according to ISO 16000-6.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application 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 12219-1, Interior air of road vehicles — Part 1: Whole vehicle test chamber — Specification and method
for the determination of volatile organic compounds in cabin interiors
ISO 16000-3:2011, Indoor air — Part 3: Determination of formaldehyde and other carbonyl compounds —
Active sampling method
ISO 16000-6:2011, Indoor air — Part 6: Determination of volatile organic compounds in indoor and test chamber ®
air by active sampling on Tenax TA sorbent, thermal desorption and gas-chromatography using MS or MS–FID
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 16000-6, ISO 12219-1 and the
following apply.
3.1
vehicle trim component
vehicle interior part or material
4 Principle
The principle of the test is to determine the area (or mass) specific emission rate of VOCs emitted from
automotive products. The test is performed in a micro-scale test chamber at a constant temperature and flow
rate. The surface area (or mass) of the sample in the micro-scale test chamber is constant and, by measuring
the mass or vapour-phase concentrations of emitted compounds, the area (or mass) specific emission rates of
VOCs from the product under test can be determined at a given time, t (see Clause 10).
The results can be used to assess product performance with respect to emission levels — either by comparison
with control levels or by comparing the data with results from other products or batches of product.
5 Apparatus
5.1 General. General specifications and requirements, which apply to all types of micro-scale chambers, are
given in 5.1 to 5.5. General micro-scale chamber principles are also summarized in Annex A and specific micro-
scale chamber examples are given in Annexes B to D.
The following key micro-scale chamber components are required:
— micro-scale chamber apparatus;
— heating mechanism;
— clean gas supply and optional humidification system,
NOTE Most samples contain sufficient inherent humidity to facilitate formaldehyde screening, according to
ISO 16000-3, over the short duration of a micro-scale chamber test. Therefore humidification is normally not required for
this screening method.
— appropriate monitoring and control systems (to ensure that the test is carried out according to specified
conditions);
— appropriate vapour sampling tubes.
5.2 Micro-scale chamber apparatus construction materials. Micro-scale test chambers range in size from
30 cm to 1 l (e.g. 44,5 ml, see Annex B). They are designed to operate at ambient or elevated temperatures and
to permit the testing of vapour-phase organic emissions from various types of vehicle interior trim components,
construction products, and consumer goods.
The micro-scale chamber apparatus can comprise one or multiple sealable, micro-scale chambers constructed
of inert, non-emitting and non-absorbing materials, such as surface-treated (polished) or inert coated stainless
steel or deactivated glass or quartz. In all cases, the requirements specified in 5.4 and 5.5 shall be fulfilled.
Any sealing materials e.g. gaskets or O-rings used for sealing the doors or lids of micro-scale chambers, shall
be low emitting and low absorbing and shall not contribute significantly to the background vapour concentration.
The O-rings or gaskets shall be easily removed to facilitate cleaning or replacement. The micro-scale chambers
shall be easily dismantled and removed from any housings to facilitate cleaning as specified in Clause 8.
2 © ISO 2012 – All rights reserved

5.3 Heating. The micro-scale chambers shall be capable of heating the test specimen to a uniform prescribed
temperature for the duration of the test. The temperature shall be maintained within ±2 °C throughout the entire
procedure (see also 6.1).
To facilitate cleaning (see Clause 8) the micro-scale test chamber should be capable of being heated to
100 °C or more.
5.4 Air or gas supply and mixing facilities. The apparatus shall include a means of supplying pure
(low hydrocarbon content), optionally humidified, air or gas to the micro-scale chamber(s) at a controlled
flow rate (±3 %). The supply air or gas shall not contain any VOCs at levels greater than the micro-scale
chamber background requirements (6.3). Similarly, if the air or gas supply is humidified then the water used for
humidification shall not contain interfering VOCs.
The positioning of the air or gas inlet and outlet, the volume of the micro-scale chamber, and the gas flow rate
should ensure thorough mixing with no volumes of still air or gas within the micro-scale chamber. The air or
gas inlet and outlet are usually positioned at right angles to the sample surface to optimize turbulence. Air or
gas flow rates between 20 ml/min and 500 ml/min are typical for the types of micro-scale chamber described
in Annexes B and C.
NOTE 1 Air is most commonly used, but pure inert gases such as nitrogen or helium are preferred for some applications.
NOTE 2 Turbulence and mixing within the micro-scale chamber examples given in Annexes B and C have been
optimized by minimizing the air volume above the sample surface to 3,2 ml and 7,4 ml, respectively, and by orienting
the inlet and outlet such that air enters and leaves the micro-scale chamber at right angles to the sample surface. In this
configuration, air flow rates in excess of 10 ml/min and 20 ml/min, respectively, are sufficient to ensure turbulence and
mixing as well as eliminating the risk of still air volumes. Note that inadequate turbulence and mixing, if it does occur, is
identified by inadequate analyte recovery (see Annex E.)
5.5 Air or gas leaks. The micro-scale chamber is considered sufficiently leak-free if the inlet carrier air or
gas flow differs from the total outlet air or gas flow by less than 5 %. This should be checked at the start of every
recovery test (Annex E), background test (9.2), and emissions test (9.3).
5.6 Air sampling. Vapours shall be sampled from the micro-scale chamber exhaust by connecting a sample
tube [conditioned sorbent tube for volatile or semi-volatile organics (see ISO 16000-6) or DNPH cartridge or
equivalent for formaldehyde and other volatile carbonyl compounds] to the outlet coupling of the micro-scale
chamber. Micro-scale chambers are typically closed systems in which all of the air or gas entering passes out
into the vapour sampling tube.
®1)
Tenax TA is the most commonly used sorbent for VOCs ranging in volatility from n-hexane to n-hexadecane.
Other sorbents or sorbent combinations are available to extend this volatility range if required: see
[11]
ISO 16000-6:2011, Annex D, ISO 16017-1 and Annex F for more information.
[11]
NOTE 1 Refer to ISO 16000-6:2011, Annex D or ISO 16017-1 for guidance on sorbent selection if VOCs eluting
before n-C need to be analysed.
NOTE 2 Micro-scale chambers typically operate slightly (<20 %) above atmospheric pressure and incorporate
mechanisms for controlling and maintaining gas flow at a constant rate, whether or not a sample tube is attached. Another
benefit of this approach is that, provided all of the exhaust air flow is sampled, it means that a constant air flow can be
maintained through the vapour sampling tubes without using pumps (see Annexes B to D.) This simplifies operation for
routine industrial quality control checks.
6 Test conditions
In general, the following test conditions shall be achieved.
1) Tenax TA® is the trade name of a product supplied by Buchem. This information is given for the convenience of
users of this document and does not constitute an endorsement by ISO of the product named. Equivalent products may be
used if they can be shown to lead to the same results.
6.1 Temperature
Emission rates are specific to a particular temperature, therefore it is essential to maintain a constant
temperature of 65 °C ± 2 °C within the micro-scale chamber throughout the emission test.
Other temperatures may be used depending upon the objectives of the test and the agreement of all parties.
6.2 Air or gas flow rate through the micro-scale chamber
Maintain a constant air or gas flow rate through each individual micro-scale chamber throughout the emission
test. Typical flow rates are of the order of 50 ml/min for screening surface emissions of VOCs. Higher gas flow
rates (e.g. 100 ml/min to 200 ml/min) are normally recommended for testing VOC emissions from bulk materials
where the sample is at the bottom of the micro-scale chamber and a larger micro-scale chamber volume is
exposed. Higher flow rates are also recommended to minimize risk of sink effects when testing higher boiling
semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs).
A flow rate of 250 ml/min is recommended for screening surface emissions of formaldehyde according to
ISO16000-3.
NOTE Lower flow rates or shorter sampling times can be used for screening formaldehyde using micro-scale
chambers; however, ISO 16000-3 detection limits can be compromised as a result.
Analyte recovery tests, such as that described in Annex E, shall be carried out regularly (e.g. once per month)
and used as a check that air turbulence and mixing is adequate, and that there are no significant volumes of
still air. Satisfactory recovery is demonstrated by >80 % recovery on the first sample tube and <20 % recovery
on the second sample tube.
Record the air or gas flow rate and the results of the most recent analyte recovery test.
6.3 Quality of supplied air or gas and background concentration of organic vapours
Background levels of target compounds (including micro-scale chamber artefacts and contaminants in the
supplied air or gas) shall be shown to be below 10 % of measured micro-scale chamber concentrations or
3 3
below 5 µg/m for individual VOC and below 50 µg/m for total volatile organic compound (TVOC), whichever
is higher. Similarly, if humidification is required, any water used shall not contain levels of organic compounds
which could interfere with the results.
6.4 Control measures
Systems for measuring temperature and flow shall be independent of the means of controlling said conditions.
7 Test specimens
7.1 General
This part of ISO 12219 can be applied horizontally, i.e. to a wide range of car trim component materials. Studies
of the emission of vapour-phase organic compounds from vehicle components in micro-scale chambers require
proper handling of the test specimen prior to and during the testing period.
Samples that are taken straight from production to be analysed rapidly in an on-site laboratory should be
placed in suitable clean, airtight, and non-outgassing (non-emitting) containers or packaging. Every sample
shall be treated the same way in terms of type of storage container or packaging, method of test specimen
preparation, and period between sample collection and analysis
4 © ISO 2012 – All rights reserved

If samples are to be stored for longer than 2 h before analysis or if they need to be transported to an off-site
laboratory, more precautions are required with respect to sampling procedures, transport conditions, sample
[8]
storage, test specimen preparation, etc. In this case, advice given in ISO 16000-11 should be followed.
NOTE For heterogeneous materials, it can be necessary to make measurements on multiple test specimens from the
same sample to determine the mean specific emission rate.
7.2 Preparation of the test specimen
Test specimens often need to be cut (sectioned) to fit snugly within the micro-scale emissions chamber, thus
minimizing or eliminating edge effects — see Annexes A to C. This is best performed using a punch to minimize
heat generation. Identify and weigh each test specimen.
NOTE Sawing can heat the sample, which can compromise emissions testing.
For analysis of bulk emissions, sample mass shall be sufficient to determine the mass specific emission rate
with enough sensitivity to meet test objectives.
The period of time between unpacking the sample and preparation of the test specimen shall be as short as
possible, and shall be the same in each case. After preparation of the test specimen, it shall immediately be
placed into the micro-scale chamber. This time shall be regarded as the start time of the emission test, i.e. t = t .
If it is appropriate to measure emissions from the bulk material (e.g. polymer resin pellets, adhesives or
insulation fibres) representative samples can be placed directly into the micro-scale chamber with no additional
preparation steps. If, in real use, only one surface of a material or product is exposed, care should be taken to
prevent emissions from other surfaces and cut edges interfering with the test. The design of the micro-scale
chamber can facilitate this by accommodating snug-fitting samples or by use of a collar or baffle that presses
down on the surface of rigid planar materials, near the edge. This prevents ingress of emissions from cut edges
and the rear surface of the sample for the short duration of the test (see Annexes B and C). Alternatively, the
edges and rear surfaces of a test specimen shall be sealed with low-emitting aluminium adhesive tape or by
using a suitable sample holder bef
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