Analysis of Bisphenol A Diglycidyl Ether Using LC-MS

Importance of the Topic

Bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE) is a key component in epoxy resin coatings and stabilizers, yet its potential as an endocrine disruptor raises concerns over its leaching from food contact materials. Sensitive and reliable detection of trace levels of BADGE is critical for ensuring consumer safety and regulatory compliance.

Aims and Overview of the Study

This application note demonstrates a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry method tailored for quantitation of BADGE at low parts-per-trillion levels in coating leachates. The focus is on achieving high sensitivity, linearity, and reproducibility without extensive sample preparation.

Methodology

Atmospheric pressure chemical ionization in positive mode was employed to promote formation of the ammonium adduct M+NH4 at m/z 358.15. Selected ion monitoring targeted the ions at m/z 358.15 and 191.10, enhancing specificity and sensitivity. A large injection volume of 500 µL increases analyte load and detection capability.

Used Instrumentation

• Column: Shimadzu Shim-pack VP-ODS (2.0 mm I.D. × 150 mm L)
• Mobile phase: 70% methanol with 10 mM ammonium acetate buffer (pH 4.0)
• Flow rate: 0.2 mL/min; column temperature: 40 °C
• Ion source: APCI positive mode, probe voltage +2.5 kV, CDL temperature 200 °C, block heater 200 °C, nebulizing gas 2.5 L/min
• Scan range: m/z 50–500 (1 sec/scan); SIM dwell time: 0.2 sec per channel

Main Results and Discussion

The APCI mass spectrum confirmed the dominant M+NH4 ion at m/z 358.15 along with a fragment ion at m/z 191.10. SIM chromatograms at 2 ppb displayed clear, well-resolved peaks. Calibration from 20 ppt to 100 ppb yielded a correlation coefficient ≥ 0.9997 and repeatability of 1.0–6.1% RSD. Spiked coating resin leachate at 10 ppb showed no matrix interference after simple filtration, demonstrating robust quantitation.

Benefits and Practical Applications of the Method

Ultrasensitive detection and quantitation of BADGE support quality control and regulatory testing of epoxy-coated materials, including food packaging and environmental leachate analysis. The large-volume injection reduces sample preparation while maintaining high throughput.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advancements may include coupling with high-resolution mass spectrometry for broader screening of glycidyl ethers, miniaturized and automated sample handling for higher throughput, and isotopic labeling for improved quantitation accuracy.

Conclusion

The described LC-MS method offers a sensitive, linear, and reproducible approach for trace analysis of BADGE in coatings, with minimal sample preparation and strong resistance to matrix effects.