GC-MS strategies for the analysis of different complex matrices: from polymeric samples to plant extract

This doctoral research project was developed within the National Operational Programme (PON), focusing on interdisciplinary topics that integrate chemistry and biology to address scientific and technological challenges. The work involved WAMGROUP TecnoCM, specialized in the management of solid materials, and Proplast, a consortium active in the plastics sector. In Chapter 1, the migration of non-intentionaliy added substances (NIAS) from a polyurethane gasket towards dry foods is studied. Following the European Regulation 10/2011, tests were performed with the Tenax food simulant and analyses on rice, flour, corn starch, cocoa and sugar. Gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) allowed the determination of the analytes, optimizing the extraction process with acetone to reduce the loss of substances. In Chapter 2, the reduction of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during mechanical recycling of plastics Is investigated by characterizing post-consumer polypropylene with HS-GC-MS. Low environmental impact additives, such as polyethylene glycol and water, were tested. Although the most volatile VOCs were eliminated, water alone did not completely remove residual odors. Chapter 3 examines the exposure of the earthworm Eisenla foetida to microplastics from Plasmix materials, highlighting the ecological risks. Samples analyzed with HS-GC-MS show the need for more in-depth studies on the transmission of microplastics into the environment. in Chapter 4, the antimicrobial activity of plant extracts (cabbage) against bacteria and fungi is investigated, identifying the active molecules by GC-MS. Finally, Chapter 5 explores the synthesis of inclusion complexes with red thyme essential oil and beta-cyclodextrins, evaluating their biocidal properties.