Differentiation of resin-modified paints by pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and principal component analysis

Abstract

The combination of pyrolysis (Py) with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) is already well established for polymer analysis. A first approach is reported using this method for detailed quality monitoring of a complex technical polymer system. Six similar solvent-based paints (one standard and five modifications) have been used for evaluation. The major pyrolysis products were identified and qualitative and quantitative modifications were detected and specified. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied for visualization of differences and similarities.