Analysis of organic additives: BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) CAS No. 128-37-0

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You wish to carry out the analysis of organic additives: BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) CAS No. 128-37-0

BHT: an essential stabilizer in solar formulations

Accurate BHT analysis is fundamental for manufacturers of polymer materials, packaging, fuels, or lubricants, for the following reasons:

Ensuring the stability of the material and the product

BHT acts as a chemical shield against product aging. Its analysis allows us to:

  • Prevent oxidation: ensure that BHT is present in sufficient quantities to prevent the oxidation of polymer chains, oils, or greases. This guarantees that the product retains its functional properties (mechanical, viscous, protective) throughout its lifespan.
  • Control durability: confirm the long-term stability of the material by preventing rancidity, color change (yellowing), or the formation of undesirable sludge and deposits (in lubricants and fuels).
Mastering quality and formulation

Analytical control of BHT ensures product performance and consistency:

  • Product integrity: it confirms the chemical integrity of the base ingredients, preventing premature degradation that could alter the texture, odor, and color of the products (e.g., food fats).
  • Supplier control: analysis is essential to ensure the quality and purity of received BHT batches, as well as to verify its concentration in formulations before mass production.
Ensuring regulatory compliance and safety

BHT is a regulated additive, particularly due to its applications in sensitive areas:

  • Consumer safety: verify that the concentration of BHT complies with the maximum permitted limits in products intended for consumption (e.g., food additive E321) or in food contact materials (FCMs).
  • Environment and recycling: in certain industrial contexts (polymers), the control of additives is required to comply with directives on substances of concern (such as REACH) or recyclability standards.

What is BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) CAS No. 128-37-0?

BHT (Butylhydroxytoluene) is an organic compound with the molecular formula C15H24O. It is one of the most widespread and versatile primary organic antioxidants in industry. It is crucial for stabilizing many organic products against degradation by oxygen and heat.

Its main role is to scavenge free radicals, thereby interrupting the chain reactions of oxidation.

FILAB meets your needs for the analysis of organic additives: BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) CAS No. 128-37-0

What techniques are used for analyzing BHT in solar formulations?

HPLC

To separate and quantify BHT from the other ingredients in the formula

GC-MS

To identify and quantify BHT

LC-MSMS

To detect and quantify traces of BHT or its degradation products

FTIR

For rapid qualitative analysis on samples of pure BHT or in raw material

Why choose FILAB for the analysis of organic additives: BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) CAS No. 128-37-0

For over ten years, the FILAB laboratory has developed extensive expertise in chemical analysis. Our laboratory boasts state-of-the-art analytical equipment and highly skilled personnel to provide services that meet your compliance requirements for the analysis of organic additives, specifically BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), on any type of matrix.

FAQ

In what types of materials can BHT be detected?
  • Polymers and plastics (PE, PP, PET, etc.)

  • Oils, lubricants, technical fluids

  • Cosmetics and organic raw materials

  • Inks, paints, resins

  • Technical textiles

  • Composites

Is BHT often analyzed at the same time as other additives?

Yes. BHT is frequently analyzed simultaneously with other commonly used synthetic antioxidants because their functions and application matrices are similar. The most common are:

  • BHA (Butylhydroxyanisole)
  • TBHQ (Tert-butylhydroquinone)
  • Propyl gallate (PG)

The analysis of these compounds is often combined into a single protocol using HPLC or GC-MS for identification and quantification in food products.

What are the specific regulatory concerns regarding BHT?

Although authorized, BHT is subject to constant monitoring by safety agencies (EFSA, FDA):

  • Potential endocrine disruptor: BHT is classified as a potential endocrine disruptor, which justifies the strict limits imposed on products intended for ingestion or application to the skin (food, cosmetics).
  • Allergenicity: studies have shown that it can cause skin reactions in sensitive individuals, which strengthens labeling requirements in the cosmetics sector.
Is it possible to accompany the analysis with an expert opinion?

Yes. In addition to the analytical result, it is possible to interpret the BHT dosage in relation to a defect encountered, abnormal aging, or a material performance issue. This may include a correlation with other additives or degradation products.

Can the laboratory develop a tailor-made method?

Yes. If the matrix is ​​complex, if the desired threshold is very low, or if no existing standard applies, it is possible to develop a method dedicated to your industrial constraints.

The filab advantages
A highly qualified team
A highly qualified team
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
(Staves available on www.cofrac.com - Accreditation number: 1-1793)
A complete analytical park of 5,200m²
A complete analytical park of 5,200m²
Tailor-made support
Tailor-made support
Video debriefing available with the expert
Video debriefing available with the expert
Anaïs DECAUX Customer Support Manager
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