The large global production of plastics and their presence everywhere in the society and the environment create a need for assessing chemical hazards and risks associated with plastic products. Plastics from polystyrene can release potentially toxic products (including styrene), particularly when heated.
In this study we used the Fluo-Imager Analyzer with
software for SFS (spectral fluorescent signature) analysis. It is capable of
detecting styrene in low ppb ranges. The principle of the Fluo-Imager Analyzer
is based upon measuring fluorescence of specific compounds. SFS are defined by
fluorescent characteristics of basic groups of organic substances in the water
sample.
Previous research has not proven that the styrene is
acutely toxic in case of ingestion, but as a possible human carcinogen it is
necessary to further investigate the long-term exposure to styrene released
into the food and beverages from polystyrene containers and cups.
The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare
the amount of the styrene released into the food and beverages by using SFS on
Fluo-Imager Analyzer. There were analyzed 400 samples of different types of
polystyrene containers and cups. The results showed that concentrations of
released styrene were in range from 0.6 – 8.9 ppb for containers and from 1.0 –
9.7 ppb for cups.
The results indicate that the method of fluorescent
diagnostic is an effective tool for analysis of styrene released into the food
and beverages from polystyrene containers and cups. It is very quick method and
could be very useful in further investigation of styrene toxicity.
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