Dosage of plasticizers (DEHtP, DBS, ATBC, DINCH, DiBA, DEHA)

Plasticizers are essential additives in polymer manufacturing, as they modify the softness, flexibility, and durability of materials. While phthalates were long the most widely used, they are now largely replaced by other compounds considered alternatives, such as DEHtP, DBS, ATBC, DINCH, DiBA, and DEHA. Their presence must nevertheless be monitored, as some are subject to usage restrictions and can pose toxicological risks or migrate into foodstuffs when present in packaging.

Analytical methods

The analysis of plasticizers is based on gas chromatography, a method particularly suited to these molecules:

• GC-FID (flame ionization detection) , commonly used for the quantification of plasticizers in polymer matrices.
• GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) , which allows precise identification and reliable quantification, even at trace levels.

Depending on requirements, these analyses can be carried out after extraction of plasticizers by solvent or after contact with food simulants to assess their migration.

Affected matrices

The dosage of plasticizers is applicable to many materials and consumer products:

• Plastic packaging and films intended for food contact
• Toys and children's items
• Coatings and glues
• Polymer materials used in medical devices
• Recycled products incorporating plasticizer residues

Industrial applications

• Quality control of materials to check the content of added plasticizers.
• Regulatory compliance with Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011 on materials in contact with foodstuffs and the RoHS Directive.
• Assessment of migration in food packaging.
• Substitution of phthalates with alternatives requiring analytical monitoring to guarantee their safety.

Additional analyses

The dosage of plasticizers can be combined with other tests available in the YesWeLab catalog to obtain a global vision of the materials:

• Phthalate dosage , for monitoring historical compounds still regulated.
• NIAS assay , to identify substances not added intentionally but present in materials.
• Dosage of NOGE , another regulated substance in epoxy resins.
• Global and specific migration tests , essential to guarantee the conformity of food packaging.

Regulations and quality issues

The European Union imposes strict requirements regarding the use and migration of plasticizers in food contact materials. For example, DINCH and ATBC are considered alternatives to phthalates but must be monitored to ensure there is no excessive migration. Others, such as DEHA and DEHtP, are subject to specific limits.

Compliance with these standards is essential to ensure consumer safety and avoid penalties related to non-compliance.

YesWeLab expertise

At YesWeLab, we work with a network of ISO 17025-accredited laboratories selected for their expertise in analyzing plasticizers and polymer materials. Each analysis is tailored to the matrix, applicable regulations, and client objectives.

Thanks to our digital platform, manufacturers can easily submit their requests, track their samples, and quickly access results. Since 2020, we have supported numerous players in the packaging, polymer materials, food, and medical device industries in their quality control and compliance processes.