Chemical Characterization and Migration Profile of Silicone Molds for Air Fryers

The chemical profile and migration behavior of volatile and semi-volatile compounds from silicone molds intended for use in air fryers were investigated. The study combined migration tests using 10% ethanol, 3% acetic acid, and simulant E (Tenax^®) with direct headspace (HS) analysis of the molds by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). HS analysis and migration tests with aqueous simulants were performed over three heating cycles to simulate repeated use. A non-targeted analytical approach was applied, followed by selective quantification based on toxicological criteria and the relevance of the compounds to the material. A total of 128 substances were identified, including siloxanes and non-intentionally added substances (NIASs). Siloxanes were detected in both simulant E and 10% ethanol. Most NIASs were found at levels below the limit of quantification or within regulatory limits, except for dibutyl phthalate, which exceeded its specific migration limit (0.3 mg kg^-1). Furthermore, the sum of migrated cyclic siloxanes in simulant E surpassed the generic specific migration limit (60 mg kg^-1) established in Spanish Royal Decree 847/2011, while the release of volatile organic compounds exceeded the recommended value of 0.5%. The results revealed a complex chemical profile characterized by diverse NIASs and elevated migration of cyclic siloxanes in simulant E.