Oligomer assay

Oligomers are intermediate molecules resulting from the degradation or incomplete polymerization of plastics . Present in trace amounts in packaging, they can migrate into food products , posing challenges to food safety and regulatory compliance .

The quantification of oligomers makes it possible to characterize their nature and concentration in materials and to assess their potential migration into food or food simulants, in accordance with the requirements of Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 on materials in contact with food.

Analytical methods: GC-MS, LC-MS and SEC

The analysis of oligomers requires sensitive and complementary techniques:

• GC-MS (gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) : used to identify and quantify volatile and semi-volatile oligomers resulting from the thermal degradation of polymers.
• LC-MS (liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) : suitable for the analysis of non-volatile oligomers, particularly those derived from polyesters, polyamides or polyolefins.
• SEC (size exclusion chromatography) : allows evaluation of the molar mass distribution of oligomers and their proportion relative to the main polymer .

These combined approaches offer a complete view of the oligomeric profile , essential for the characterization of materials , the validation of processes and compliance with global and specific migration limits (GML/MS).

Industrial and regulatory applications

The quantification of oligomers is particularly useful in the following areas:

• Food packaging : control of the migration of oligomers into foodstuffs or food simulants.
• Polymers and technical materials : monitoring of stability and thermal degradation.
• Plastic recycling industry : identification of residual compounds in recycled materials (PET, PP, PE, etc.).
• Formulation and R&D : optimization of polymerization processes to limit the formation of oligomers.

This test can be combined with additional analyses such as bisphenol A (BPA) measurement , BADGE / BFDGE or residual styrene to obtain a complete assessment of migrations .

Affected matrices

Our partner laboratories perform oligomer assays on:

• Plastic and multi-layer films
• Bottles, trays and caps
• Internal linings for cans and containers
• Food-grade resins, adhesives and varnishes
• Recycled or biodegradable materials

Each protocol is adapted to the nature of the polymer , the conditions of use and the applicable regulations .

YesWeLab expertise

At YesWeLab , we collaborate with a network of over 200 partner laboratories in France, Europe, and internationally , specializing in the analysis of polymers, materials, and packaging . All are selected for their ISO 17025 and COFRAC accreditations and their technical expertise in chromatographic analysis.

Our scientific team assists you in defining your analytical needs , choosing the most suitable laboratory and tracking your samples via our digital platform fast, reliable and transparent process .

Since 2020, YesWeLab has been the preferred partner for the packaging, recycling and polymer processing industries migration control and regulatory compliance needs .

Order an oligomer analysis

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