GC-MS characterization of oligomers in polyadipates used as plasticizers for PVC in food contact

Abstract

Fourteen commercial polyadipates and a polysebacate were analysed for their components of a molecular mass below 1000Da, primarily with the aim of generating the background data for measuring the migration of this type of polymeric additives from plasticized PVC (e.g. cling films and gaskets of lids) into foods or food simulants. Since the composition of the material <1000Da varies between the polyadipates, the main components must be identified to enable a correct quantification. Polyadipates differ in the dial used as linker, their termination (acid or alcohol) and in the end-capping (free alcohols, acetylation, acylation with fatty acids, esterification with octanol/decanol). Gas chromatography (GC) provides good separation, but the material remaining in the column up to high temperatures decomposes and forms a hump in the rear part of the chromatogram. Examples of mass spectra are shown, the most indicative fragments pointed out and spectra of 159 components listed. The polyadipates and the sebacate are characterized by their structure, the main components <1000Da and the fraction of material <1000Da. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.