EN 15426 Candles - Specification for Incorporation Behavior

The European standard “EN 15426 Candles – Specification for soot generation behavior” describes the requirements and test method for evaluating the soot behavior of candles burned indoors. This standard applies to single-wick candles designed for indoor use with a diameter of up to 100 mm or equivalent cross-sectional area. The standard includes test setup, sampling, test conditions, and reporting to enable manufacturers and testing laboratories to reliably measure soot emissions.

Single-wick candles and multi-wick candles with a diameter greater than 100 mm or an equivalent cross-sectional area cannot be evaluated using this test method due to technical reasons. For these candles, evaluation of visible soot emission is possible.

In terms of sobriety behavior, when tested according to this standard, the average hourly sobriety index obtained from the three tests (samples) should be less than 1,0/hour.

In short, the EN 15426 standard specifies the requirements and standardized test methods for evaluating the amount of visible soot produced by burning indoor candles. This standard helps manufacturers produce cleaner-burning candles that are safer for consumers and less likely to stain indoor environments. The latest revision of this standard has introduced technical updates to improve test consistency and product evaluation.

The primary objectives of the EN 15426 standard are as follows:

• To define a repeatable method for measuring candle soot formation.
• Establishing acceptance criteria for indoor candles.
• To reduce indoor air pollution caused by excessive soot emissions.
• To support manufacturers in designing candle products that burn cleaner.
• To provide a harmonized European approach to product quality assessment.

The EN 15426 standard applies to:

• Single-wick candles.
• Candles designed for indoor use.
• Candles with a diameter of up to 100 mm or an equivalent cross-sectional area.

However, this standard does not fully apply to the following:

• Multi-wick candles.
• Single-wick candles with a diameter greater than 100 mm.

The visible establishment for these products could still be evaluated, but the standardized testing method is not technically feasible.

Soot consists of microscopic carbon particles formed during incomplete combustion. Excessive soot formation can lead to:

• Black deposits on the walls and ceilings.
• Staining of curtains and furniture.
• Decreased indoor air quality.
• Additional cleaning and maintenance costs.
• Consumer dissatisfaction and product complaints.

Although soot levels in candles are generally low during normal use, poorly designed candles or incorrect burning conditions can significantly increase soot production.

The test method described in the EN 15426 standard evaluates soot formation while a candle is burning under controlled laboratory conditions. This method generally follows these steps:

• Burning a candle in a standardized environment.
• To maintain controlled airflow and ambient temperature.
• Use the specified combustion cycles.
• To observe and measure visible organizational production.
• Comparing the results with the acceptance criteria defined in the standard.

Standardized testing minimizes variability caused by environmental conditions, ensuring comparable results across laboratories.

The EN 15426 standard acknowledges that soot formation depends on various design factors, including:

• Wick design:
  • Wick diameter
  • Wick material
  • Rope weave
  • Self-cutting properties
• Candle composition:
  • Paraffin wax
  • Soy wax
  • Palm candle
  • Beeswax
  • Candle blends
• Candle geometry:
  • Diameter
  • Height
  • Candle pool size
  • Burning rate
• Additives:
  • Color pigments
  • fragrances
  • UV stabilizers
  • Combustion modifiers
• Environmental conditions:
  • Air currents
  • Ventilation
  • Ortam sıcaklığı
  • Gender

Properly optimizing these variables helps manufacturers achieve low smoke generation performance.

EN 15426 is one of several European candle standards that address different aspects of candle safety and quality.

• EN 15493 Candles - Fire safety specification
• EN 15494 Candles - Product safety labels
• EN 16738 Emission safety of combustible room fragrances - Test methods

Together, these standards provide comprehensive guidance on candle safety, labeling, and performance.

The EN 15426 standard is widely used by the following sectors:

• Candle manufacturers
• Home fragrance companies
• Quality assurance laboratories
• Product certification bodies
• Retail private label suppliers
• Consumer product testing laboratories

Many retailers require candle products to comply with the EN 15426 standard before offering them for sale.

Manufacturers who comply with the EN 15426 standard gain several advantages:

• Improved product quality.
• Candles that burn more cleanly.
• Improved customer satisfaction.
• Reduced consumer complaints.
• More trust from retailers and distributors.
• Easier access to European markets.

Compliance also demonstrates commitment to product safety and environmental performance.

Although the EN 15426 standard provides a standardized method for assessing soot formation, it does not:

• It does not measure volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions.
• It does not evaluate odor emissions.
• It does not evaluate toxicological effects.
• It does not cover fire safety requirements.
• It does not replace product labeling obligations.

Manufacturers typically use the EN 15426 standard in conjunction with other relevant European candle standards to ensure comprehensive product compatibility.

In conclusion, the EN 15426 standard is an important European standard that helps ensure indoor candles burn with minimal visible soot under standardized conditions. By defining consistent test procedures and acceptance criteria, it enables manufacturers to develop cleaner-burning products, improve customer satisfaction, and meet European quality expectations. Along with other candle safety standards, the EN 15426 standard significantly contributes to the safety, performance, and environmental quality of candles sold across Europe.

For many years, our organization, with its competent and experienced staff, has been understanding the needs of its clients, providing the advanced testing services they require, and assisting them in the establishment, implementation, and improvement of management systems. Within this framework, we also provide testing services in accordance with the EN 15426 standard.