Thermal Stability of Polymer Additives: Comparison of Decomposition Models Including Oxidative Pyrolysis

The thermo-oxidative stability of widely used polymer additives has been investigated. A comparative analytical approach with classic and innovative decomposition models for polymer additives was conducted and the results supported using quantum-chemical calculations. Unique pyrolysis products of the analytes were compiled utilizing pyrolysis online coupled to gas chromatography followed by mass spectrometric detection (Pyr-GC–MS). The pyrolysis was either performed under inert conditions or in an oxygen-containing atmosphere. Squalane was applied as polymer-mimicking liquid next to low density polyethylene (LDPE) and polyamide 6 (PA 6) as matrices for 10 selected additives. The additives included in this study range from antioxidants and plasticizers to processing aids. These were selected to address a range of application in consumer products and to cover different chemical classes. The toxicological relevance of additives and potential breakdown products was considered. Consequently, degradation of sterically hindered antioxidants, diarylamines, and a trimellitic acid derivative was investigated. The findings were used to predict the behavior of consumer products made of polymeric materials entailing additives. The level of Antioxidant 2246 [2-tert-butyl-6-[(3-tert-butyl-2-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)methyl]-4-methylphenol] and one of its predicted decomposition products was determined in baby bottle nipples made of natural rubber [2-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol] utilizing the complementary technique of gas chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (GC–MS/MS). This study provides a comprehensive characterization of important polymer additives and enables the prioritization of degradation products for further risk assessment. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 25:E12–E27, 2019. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Vinyl and Additive Technology published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Society of Plastics Engineers.