A study on the migration of styrene from polystyrene cups to drinks using online solid-phase extraction liquid chromatography (SPE-LC)

The migration of residual styrene from polystyrene cups to drinks has been a major concern in recent years worldwide. In this study, a three-factor response surface experimental design was used to evaluate the interactive effects of temperature (30-80 degree Celsius), pH (5-7) and contact time (35-120 min) on the migration of styrene from polystyrene cups into water. Online solid-phase extraction liquid chromatography (SPE-LC) with diode array detector (DAD) was used for the separation and detection of styrene. Initial temperature of water was found significant in increasing the rate of migration of styrene whereas the effect of contact time was less significant. In terms of interactions between the effects, the relation between temperature and pH was the most significant. The amount of styrene in water varied from 0.3 to 4.2 μg/ L with maximum migration obtained at initial water temperature of 80 degree Celsius and pH 5. (author)