Phthalate dosage (DiBA, DBA, ATBC, DMP, DEP, DPP, DiBP, DCHP, DNOP, DBP, BBP, DnPP, DiPP, DiMP, DIDP)

Phthalates are a family of plasticizers commonly used to improve the flexibility, mechanical strength, and durability of polymers such as PVC. They are found in a multitude of industrial applications: food packaging, toys, construction materials, cosmetics, coated textiles, paints, and inks.

However, some phthalates are now identified as endocrine disruptors , and their use is strictly regulated by the REACH (EC No. 1907/2006) and RoHS (2011/65/EU) . These substances are also regulated in food contact materials and medical devices.

Phthalate analysis allows for the precise quantification of their concentration in polymers, packaging or finished products, in order to ensure regulatory compliance and the chemical safety of materials placed on the market.

Objectives of the analysis

This analysis aims to:

• Determine the presence and concentration of phthalates in polymers and manufactured products.
• Ensure regulatory compliance (REACH, RoHS, CLP, Food Contact).
• Identify non-compliant plasticizers or potentially dangerous substitutes.
• Assess the migration of phthalates to food, cosmetics or the environment.
• Control the quality of formulations and recycled materials.

Analytical methods

The analyses are carried out by gas chromatography, a reference method for the identification and quantification of phthalates.

Gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID)
allows for the precise quantification of major phthalates after solvent extraction. This method is suitable for quality control of polymers, films, coatings, and flexible plastics.

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)
offers high sensitivity and selectivity, enabling the identification and quantification of trace amounts of phthalates even in complex matrices. This technique is essential for regulatory compliance testing and environmental analyses.

Analyses can be carried out according to the recommendations of Directive 2005/84/EC , standard EN 14372 , or internal methods validated in accordance with ISO 17025 .

Phthalates analyzed

• DiBA (Diisobutyl adipate)
• DBA (Dibenzylideneacetone)
• ATBC (Acetyltributylcitrate)
• DMP (Dimethyl phthalate)
• DEP (Diethylphthalate)
• DPP (Dipentyl phthalate)
• DiBP (Diisobutyl phthalate)
• DCHP (Dicyclohexyl phthalate)
• DNOP (Di-n-octylphthalate)
• DBP (Dibutyl phthalate)
• BBP (Benzylbutylphthalate)
• DnPP (Di-n-propylphthalate)
• DiPP (Diisopentyl phthalate)
• DiMP (Diisomalthale)
• DIDP (Diisodecyl phthalate)

Affected matrices

• Plastic films and packaging
• Toys and baby care items
• Cosmetics and hygiene products
• Polymeric materials (PVC, PU, ​​EVA)
• Coated textiles, paints, varnishes
• Oils, solvents and industrial matrices

Recommended Related Analyses

For a comprehensive materials assessment, YesWeLab recommends:
Bisphenol A (BPA) testing – for the detection of another common endocrine disruptor found in plastics.
BADGE and BFDGE testing – for monitoring epoxy resins and varnishes intended for food contact.
Heavy metal analysis in polymers – to verify RoHS and REACH compliance.
Overall and specific migration analysis – for food contact materials.

Why choose YesWeLab?

YesWeLab provides a network of partner laboratories specializing in the analytical chemistry of materials and accredited to ISO 17025. We ensure the traceability, conformity and reliability of your analyses according to European regulatory requirements.

Thanks to our digital platform, manufacturers can order and track their analyses, centralize their results and benefit from personalized scientific support.