Determination of semi-volatile organic compounds

The analysis of semi-volatile organic compounds (SVCs) allows for the identification and quantification of a range of substances characterized by moderate vapor pressure. These compounds, often persistent and bioaccumulative, play a major role in assessing environmental quality, regulatory compliance, and managing health risks. They are found in environmental matrices (water, soil, sediments, air), industrial materials (coatings, polymers, resins, foams), and consumer products (cosmetics, packaging, plastic items).

SVOCs encompass a wide variety of molecules: phthalates, PAHs, brominated flame retardants, pesticides, plasticizers, heavy solvents, mineral oils, and compounds from industrial processes. Their presence necessitates rigorous controls to comply with environmental standards, REACH requirements, and manufacturers' specifications.

Industrial interests and objectives of the dosage

This type of analysis is essential for:

• assess the contamination of an environment (indoor air, water, soil, dust)
• secure materials intended to come into contact with food or skin
• verify the regulatory compliance of packaging, cosmetics or coatings
• to control emissions or releases of organic products from a material
• detect trace compounds in complex matrices
• to conduct migration or aging studies on polymer materials
• certify environmental quality as part of an audit or impact study

The measurement of COSVs is a key tool for controlling product safety and ensuring compliance throughout their life cycle.

Analytical techniques used

The analysis is primarily based on gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). This technique offers excellent sensitivity and precise identification of molecules, even at very low concentrations.

• Sample preparation:
• solvent extraction (liquid-liquid or solid-liquid)
• Solid phase extraction (SPE)
• Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) adapted to heavy volatile COSVs
• concentration and purification of extracts before GC-MS injection

The combination of selective extraction + GC-MS allows for reliable quantification in highly heterogeneous matrices.

Analyzed matrices

• surface or groundwater
• industrial water, leachate, effluents
• soils, earth, sediments
• indoor air, collecting fibers, emissive materials
• plastic films, polymers, foams, coatings
• cosmetics, raw materials, organic extracts

Examples of substances analyzed

• phthalates (DEHP, DBP, BBP…)
• PAHs (naphthalene, anthracene, benzo[a]pyrene…)
• flame retardants (PBDEs, HBCDs…)
• plasticizers and polymer additives
• semi-volatile pesticides
• Mineral oils (MOSH/MOAH) according to the matrices
• heavy solvents and industrial residues

Additional analyses

For a more complete view of the chemical composition or associated risks, several analyses from the YesWeLab catalogue can be carried out in addition.

GC-MS analysis
is essential for the confirmation and precise identification of COSVs.

FTIR analysis
is useful for characterizing the chemical nature of a polymer or carrier material.

PAH assay:
In-depth analysis focused on a regulated group of semi-volatile substances.

Determination of residual solvents.
Relevant for materials in contact with food or consumer products.

Why go through YesWeLab?

YesWeLab enables companies in the environmental, materials, and chemical industries to centralize all their analytical needs through a single platform. Each analysis is entrusted to an expert laboratory, selected based on the matrix, applicable regulations, and required methodology. You benefit from technical support, optimized turnaround times, and comprehensive tracking of your samples, from collection to results receipt.