Abstract
Styrene-based food-contact polymers were examined for the presence and migration of residual benzene. Headspace gas chromatography (GC) with a column of 20% SP 2100–0.1% Carbowax 1500 on Supelcoport and a flame ionization detector were used for quantitation. To determine residual levels, the polymer was dissolved in dimethyl acetamide (DMAC)–water (99 + 1). On the average, >85% of the benzene was recovered. The quantitative determinative limit for the analysis was ca 200 ppb on a polymer basis. Migration tests simulating hot-filling or pasteurization above 150°F (66°C) were undertaken, using water as the food-simulating solvent. A lower limit of ca 0.35 ppb benzene could be quantitated. Several commercial products were examined, including samples of foam, impact, and crystal polystyrene. The levels of benzene found ranged from none to 3.47 ppm. The presence of benzene was confirmed by GC–mass spectrometry.
Determination of Trace Trimethylamine in Ambient Air by Headspace Gas Chromatography-Surface Ionization Detector