Identification of Multiple Polymers in a Sample using Pyrolysis and GCMS

A new application note from Analytix identifies the benefits and ease of using analytical pyrolysis in identifying multiple polymers present within a sample. In this instance, a sample of waterproof fabric was analysed using a CDS pyrolysis system via evolved gas analysis (EGA) followed by fractionated/multi-step pyrolysis GCMS.

The initial EGA provides a rapid screening technique and identifies temperatures to be utilised for further multi-step analysis. EGA provides a good indication of polymers present within the sample in as little as ten minutes. Subsequent multi-step pyrolysis-GCMS analysis provides additional information and allows for positive polymer assignments to be made.

Although this application note relates to waterproof fabric, in reality the method is suitable for any polymeric sample matrix - rubbers, paints, films, inks etc. The possibilities are endless with analytical pyrolysis.

Download the application note.