Organotin - Dioctyltin (DOT) Analysis: Detection of Harmful Chemicals

Organotin - Dioctyltin (DOT) Analysis in Footwear

What are Organotin Compounds?

Organotin compounds are chemical substances formed by combining the element tin (tin) with organic compounds. These compounds are widely used, especially in industrial and commercial products. Organotins are preferred to add flexibility to plastics, to provide waterproofing, to make protective coatings and in some cases to be used as biocides. However, most organotin compounds are harmful to human health and the environment.

What is Dioctyltin (DOT)?

Dioctyltin (DOT) is a chemical compound belonging to the organotin group and is widely used in the production of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), protective coatings, paints and plasticizers. DOT is often used to reduce the hardness of plastics to give them flexibility and durability. It also serves as a preservative as it has some antifungal and antibacterial properties.

However, Dioctyltin is a potential chemical compound that can cause serious harm to human health.

Effects of Dioctyltin on Health and the Environment

DOT and other organotin compounds can harm human health in several ways. In particular, absorption through the skin and exposure through inhalation are the most common routes of contact. The potential hazards of these compounds include:

1. Endocrine Disruptions: Dioctyltin, a chemical with the ability to mimic hormones, can cause disruption of the endocrine system in the body. This can adversely affect reproductive health and cause fertility problems.
2. Skin Irritation and Allergic Reactions: DOT may cause allergic reactions in contact with the skin. Symptoms such as redness, itching and rash may occur.
3. Neurological Effects: It is thought that long-term exposure may have adverse effects on the nervous system and may cause neurological problems.
4. Cancer Risk: Some research suggests that organotin compounds may have carcinogenic effects. Long-term exposure to DOT may increase the risk of cancer.
5. Environmental Impacts: Organotin compounds can accumulate in nature and cause permanent damage to ecosystems. In particular, DOT accumulating in water bodies can threaten aquatic life.

Dioctyltin (DOT) Analysis: Detection of the Chemical

Detection of dioctyltin and other organotin compounds is a critical step to ensure that products comply with health and safety standards. DOT analysis is performed to monitor the safety of materials used in the textile, plastics and construction industries in particular. These analyzes to determine the presence of organotin compounds are usually performed by the following methods:

1. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS): This method is widely used to detect DOT and other organotin compounds. It is a highly effective technique in terms of both sensitivity and accuracy. Samples are separated by gas chromatography and then confirmed by mass spectrometry.
2. Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS): This method is used to detect organotins in liquid samples. LC-MS is particularly ideal for analyzing organotin components in water and food samples.
3. Induced Double Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS): Another analytical technique used especially for the detection of metals and organotin compounds. Even low concentrations of DOT compounds can be detected with this method.

“Di-n-Octyltin (DOT)” can be tested on a variety of consumer and commercial products:

• Footwear
• Clothing and apparel
• Plastic accessories
• Children's toys
• Household goods (including kitchenware and decorative items)

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Organotin - Dioctyltin (DOT) Analysis. We also provide services on Phthalate Determination in Textiles.

Contact us for more information.

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