Element release from lead crystal ware and metallic hip flasks

The release of 21 elemental ions from lead crystal ware and metallic hip flasks into different food simulants as well as alcoholic beverages was investigated in this study. For this purpose, an ICP-MS method including a sample pre-treatment based on microwave-assisted digestion was developed and validated. Elemental ion release from lead crystal glasses into artificial tap water, 0.5% citric acid solution and white wine, respectively, was only analysed for Pb. Within 24 h, Pb release from crystal glass was shown to increase with time. To account for repeated use, at least three consecutive release experiments were performed, which showed - with one remarkable exception - constant or decreasing levels of element ion release. However, after four months resting period, Pb release from crystal glass was higher than before. In contrast, all 21 elemental ions were detected to be released from the hip flasks into 0.5% citric acid solution, apple liqueur and herb liqueur, respectively. Release of Cd, Cr, Ni, As, TI, Sn and most prominently Pb from hip flasks was in the range of and above the respective release limit (SRL) as set by the Council of Europe (CoE). When focussing on the third repetition, only one out of six hip flasks met the suggested SRL for all determined elements in all test solutions. This demonstrates both, that the SRLs of the CoE can be met and that producers of hip flasks may have to review their manufacturing processes.