Determination of surfactant bio‐sourced origin by isotope‐ratio mass spectrometry. (15th May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gaubert, Alexandra; Jame, Patrick; Bordes, Claire; Clément, Yohann; Guibert, Sylvie; Batteau, Magali; Lomberget, Thierry; Anchisi, Anthony; Lantéri, Pierre; Casabianca, Hervé
• Is Part Of: Rapid communications in mass spectrometry. Volume 30:Number 9(2016)
• Page Start: 1108
• Page End: 1114
• Publication Date: 2016-05-15
• Subjects: Mass spectrometry -- Periodicals; 543.65
• DOI: 10.1002/rcm.7537
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0951-4198

Abstract

Abstract : Rationale: To develop more eco‐friendly laundry detergents, renewable surfactants synthesized from vegetal sources are increasingly being used. In a more stringent regulation context, the determination of bio‐sourced surfactant origin thus appears essential to assess the claims of detergent manufacturers. Radiocarbon determination, the standard method for the analysis of bio‐sourced materials, is an expensive technique, so there is a need for a cheaper method. Methods: Here, the use of an elemental analyzer linked to isotope‐ratio mass spectrometry (EA/IRMS) is evaluated as an alternative approach to the official method. The δ 18 O, δ 13 C and δ 2 H isotope‐ratio values were determined to investigate the bio‐sourced origin of surfactant raw materials and mixtures. Results: A sample library of 26 commercial surfactants representative of detergent raw materials was first analyzed by EA/IRMS. The δ 18 O, δ 13 C and δ 2 H values allowed discrimination of synthetic and bio‐sourced surfactants. Moreover, in this latter group, C4 plant‐derived surfactants were distinguished by their δ 13 C values. Binary and ternary mixtures made of synthetic and bio‐sourced surfactants were also analyzed and indicated a linear relationship between mixture isotope‐ratio values and surfactant proportions. Conclusions: IRMS represents a viable alternative to radiocarbon determination for the evaluation of surfactant bio‐sourced origin. It is a faster and cheaper technique, allowing discrimination of petroleum‐ and biomass‐derived surfactants and identification of their carbon sources (C4 or C3 plants). Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.