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Inline Analysis of the Plastics Melt Emissions in Real Time During Mechanical Recycling Using the SIFT-MS Method
Felix Mehrens1, Niklas Rode1, Jacek Lecinski1
1IKK - Institute of Plastics and Circular Economy, Leibniz University Hanover, An der Universität 2, 30823 Garbsen, Germany.
ACS Omega
|January 1, 2026
Summary
Selected Ion Flow Tube Mass Spectrometry (SIFT-MS) enables real-time analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in recycled plastics. This technology improves quality control for sensitive applications by detecting contaminants during extrusion.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Process Engineering
Background:
- Recycled plastic quality is compromised by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from additives, migration, or degradation.
- High chemical requirement applications like food packaging and automotive interiors face challenges due to plastic contamination.
- Existing analytical methods rely on random sampling, risking detection of harmful substances in inhomogeneous materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate Selected Ion Flow Tube Mass Spectrometry (SIFT-MS) for continuous inline analysis of VOCs during plastic extrusion.
- To assess SIFT-MS's capability in identifying and quantifying VOCs in real-time within the extrusion process.
- To determine the correlation between VOC content in input materials and gas flow concentrations.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Selected Ion Flow Tube Mass Spectrometry (SIFT-MS) for real-time gas flow analysis.
- Employed a twin-screw extruder with a vacuum dome for sample collection during extrusion.
- Identified and quantified various VOCs, including limonene and FDA-compliant model substances.
Main Results:
- Clearly identified and quantified diverse VOCs in real-time during the extrusion process.
- Demonstrated a strong correlation between VOC levels in input materials and detected gas flow concentrations.
- Successfully detected VOCs from input materials, including limonene and FDA model substances.
Conclusions:
- SIFT-MS is suitable for continuous inline VOC analysis in mechanical plastics processing.
- The technology offers potential for enhanced process monitoring and quality control, especially for recycled materials.
- SIFT-MS can improve safety and traceability for recycled plastics in sensitive applications.
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