Analytical Screening
High-resolution detection of volatile organic compounds ensures the safety of recycled paperboards destined for food contact. Through gas chromatography screening, laboratories identify and quantify migrating substances such as mineral oils and plasticizers. This analytical method determines whether a paperboard batch complies with international chemical threshold regulations.
It provides the primary method for verifying the effectiveness of functional barrier coatings.
Extraction Methodology
Preparing the paperboard sample involves solvent extraction followed by clean-up steps to isolate the target analytes. Technicians expose the material to hexane or ethanol to extract the volatile compounds from the fibre matrix. This liquid extract is then injected into the heated inlet of the chromatograph, where it vaporizes instantly.
A high-purity carrier gas sweeps the vaporized sample through a capillary column to separate the compounds based on their boiling points. The individual components exit the column at distinct retention times for measurement.
Contaminant Detection
Detection of the separated chemical fractions is completed using flame ionization or mass spectrometry detectors. The output displays distinct peaks that indicate the concentration of each contaminant. If the total peak area of mineral oil hydrocarbons exceeds the safety threshold, the packaging material is rejected.
This rigorous analysis prevents contaminated paperboards from entering the supply chain.
