Phthalate Esters Screening in Toys and Childcare Articles Using Py-Screener Ver 2

Importance of the Topic

The widespread use of phthalate esters as plasticizers in PVC products raises significant health concerns due to their endocrine-disrupting properties. Infants and young children are especially vulnerable when exposed to phthalate-containing toys and childcare articles through biting and mouthing activities. Stringent regulations such as EU REACH limit the concentration of certain phthalates to protect vulnerable populations.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study aims to demonstrate a rapid screening method for seven phthalate esters in toys and childcare products using a pyrolyzer coupled to GC-MS. The approach leverages Shimadzu’s Py-Screener Ver. 2 to achieve fast separation, semi-quantitation, and a clear pass/fail assessment aligned with EU regulatory standards.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Sample preparation involves either micro-punching polymer standards or cutting test articles into ~0.5 mg pieces, which are placed in quartz-wool–covered sample cups. A multi-shot pyrolyzer (EGA/PY-3030D) with an auto-shot sampler (AS-1020E) thermally decomposes samples, transferring volatiles to the GCMS-QP2020 NX system. A SH-1MS capillary column with integrated guard ensures robustness against matrix loading. Calibration uses one-point 1000 mg/kg polymer standards, and quality controls include blank (< 30 mg/kg) and 100 mg/kg checks with S/N > 30. Data processing and flag-based screening criteria (PASS ≤ 500 mg/kg, INCONCLUSIVE 500–1500 mg/kg, FAIL ≥ 1500 mg/kg) are managed in LabSolutions Insight.

Key Results and Discussion

Five real-world samples—three toy pieces and two childcare articles (milk bottle teat and pacifier)—were screened. Phthalate peaks showed consistent retention times and shapes compared to standards. Toy C exceeded regulatory limits with DEHP at 3112 mg/kg and DINP at 4447 mg/kg, triggering FAIL flags. Other samples passed all screening criteria. Clustering in DINP and DIDP chromatograms reflects isomer complexity. Monitoring of TOTM confirmed its absence, ruling out interference.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The Py-Screener Ver. 2 workflow offers rapid throughput, minimal sample preparation, and elimination of extensive solvent use. Color-coded flagging in LabSolutions Insight provides an immediate pass/fail overview, streamlining compliance screening in QA/QC laboratories and research settings. The method can be extended to various solid and liquid matrices for efficient semi-quantitative monitoring.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advances may include integration with high-resolution mass spectrometry for improved specificity, automated sample handling platforms for higher sample throughput, and expanded libraries for additional plasticizers and flame retardants. Machine learning tools could further enhance pattern recognition in complex matrices, supporting broader environmental and food contact safety assessments.

Conclusion

Shimadzu’s Py-Screener Ver. 2 combined with GCMS-QP2020 NX provides a robust, fast, and user-friendly solution for screening phthalate esters in toys and childcare articles. It meets current regulatory requirements, reduces solvent consumption, and delivers high sample throughput, making it a valuable tool for laboratories tasked with ensuring consumer safety.

References

• Sakamoto Y. et al. Analysis of Phthalate Esters in Children’s Toys Using GC-MS. Shimadzu GC/MS Technical Report No. 4.
• Loo L. et al. Fast GCMS Method for Analysis of Phthalate Esters in Beverages. ASMS 2012, TP29-579.
• Navaranjan G. et al. Early Life Exposure to Phthalates in the CHILD Study. Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology (2020) 30:70–85.
• European Commission. Regulation (EU) 2018/2005 on REACH Restrictions for Phthalates.
• IEC 62321-3-3. Screening of Phthalates in Polymers by Py/TD-GC-MS.