DIN EN 16847:2016-05

This document specifies a chromatographic method which allows the identification of heptagluconic acid (HGA) in fertilizers containing heptagluconic acid metal complexes. This method is applicable to EC fertilizers containing complexed micro-nutrients, which are covered by Regulation (EC) No 2003/2003. It is based on demetalation of the HGA complex in the aqueous test solution with phosphoric acid. The complexing agent is then identified and determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The validation of the method was carried out in 2014 by Working Group CEN/TC 260/WG 5 "Determination of chelating agents" (secretariat: AENOR, Spain) in collaboration with eight laboratories from several European countries. Three different chelating agents were investigated in the interlaboratory study. The European Standard has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 260 "Fertilizers and liming materials" (secretariat: DIN). The national Mirror Committee is Working Committee NA 057-03-02 AA "Düngemittel" ("Fertilizers") at DIN Standards Committee Food and Agricultural Products (NAL).