Simultaneous analysis of several plasticizer classes in different matrices by on-line turbulent flow...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Toxicology

Background:

• Plasticizers are widely used in plastic products, raising concerns about their environmental persistence and human health effects.
• Assessing the impact of plasticizers requires robust analytical methods for diverse matrices.
• Existing methods often lack the scope or efficiency to analyze a broad range of plasticizers simultaneously.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a rapid analytical method for determining multiple plasticizers.
• To analyze plasticizers in foodstuffs, face masks, and indoor air samples.
• To evaluate the contribution of different plasticizer classes to overall contamination.

Main Methods:

• Turbulent flow chromatography (TFC) coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (MS-MS) for on-line purification and analysis.
• Simultaneous determination of ten phthalates, four alternative plasticizers (adipates, citrates), and 20 organophosphate esters (OPEs).
• Method validation across various matrices including foodstuffs, face masks, and ambient air.

Main Results:

• Plasticizers were detected in all analyzed samples, with concentrations up to 22.0 μg g⁻¹ ww in foodstuffs, 6.78 μg g⁻¹ in face masks, and 572 ng m⁻³ in indoor air.
• Acceptable analytical parameters were achieved, including recoveries (50–125%) and RSDs (<20%).
• Phthalates, alternative plasticizers, and OPEs showed varying contributions to total plasticizer content across matrices.

Conclusions:

• The developed TFC-MS-MS method enables efficient, simultaneous analysis of a wide range of plasticizers.
• The presence of plasticizers in food, masks, and air underscores the need for comprehensive exposure assessment.
• This methodology is vital for gaining conclusive insights into the environmental and human health impacts of plasticizers from various exposure sources.