Rubber processing operations such as mixing, milling, extrusion, calendaring, and curing can generate airborne rubber dust and rubber fumes. Rubber fumes are a complex mixture of thermal degradation products released during heating and vulcanization. Depending on formulation and process temperature, these emissions may contain condensable organic compounds, additives, oils, and decomposition products.
LCS Laboratory provides air sampling equipment and laboratory analysis for rubber dust and rubber fumes in accordance with MDHS 14 and MDHS 47 (UK methods). These methods are widely referenced for occupational exposure monitoring in rubber processing environments.
This approach allows you to obtain two results from a single sampling train:
- Inhalable Rubber Dust (gravimetric)
- Rubber Fumes and Oils (solvent-extractable fraction)
Samples are typically collected as the inhalable fraction using IOM sampling heads to reflect worker breathing zone exposure. Where required, sampling can also be performed as total dust, depending on the exposure limit or regulatory framework you are following. Using one sampling train reduces field complexity while maintaining method alignment with MDHS requirements.
Rubber Dust – MDHS 14
Samples are collected as inhalable dust and analyzed gravimetrically. The filter is weighed pre- and post-sampling to determine airborne dust concentration.
- Fraction: Inhalable (IOM) or Total Dust
- Analysis: Gravimetric
- Reporting limit: 100 µg/sample
Results are suitable for comparison with occupational exposure limits and internal corporate criteria.
Rubber Fumes and Oils – MDHS 47
After gravimetric determination, the same filter is re-analyzed for the solvent-extractable fraction representing rubber fumes and process oils.
- Reporting limit: 100 µg/sample
Contact Us
LCS Laboratory supplies IOM inhalable sampling heads, calibrated personal sampling pumps, filters, and accessories, along with clear sampling instructions for MDHS 14 and MDHS 47 applications.
To request a quotation or order sampling media and laboratory analysis, please provide your shipping address, sampling scope, and required equipment list. Current pricing for laboratory testing is available on our price list page. For technical questions regarding rubber dust and rubber fume testing in occupational settings, contact LCS Laboratory to discuss your project requirements. ©
