How are nitrosamines tested in rubber and elastomers?

Nitrosamines form in rubber and elastomer products during vulcanisation. The curing process uses chemical accelerators, many of which contain secondary amines. These amines can react with nitrogen oxides present in the environment or released from other additives during curing, producing nitrosamines in the finished material.

The resulting nitrosamines may remain trapped in the rubber matrix or be released as emissions over time. Both are relevant for compliance and product safety.

Why it matters

Rubber products are used in direct contact with skin (gloves, seals, grips), in food contact applications (gaskets, tubing, conveyor belts), and in automotive interiors where vehicle cabin air quality is monitored. In each case, nitrosamine content or emissions need to be controlled and, in many sectors, tested against defined limits.

Regulatory frameworks including EN 12868 (rubber teats and soothers), EN 71-12 (toys), and various automotive OEM specifications set limits for extractable or emitted nitrosamines from rubber articles.

How testing works

Testing typically involves extracting nitrosamines from the rubber sample using a solvent, then analysing the extract by GC-TEA. The TEA's selectivity for nitrogen-oxide compounds means it detects the nitrosamines without interference from the many other volatile compounds present in a rubber extract.

For emission testing, headspace or thermal desorption methods can be used to capture volatile nitrosamines released from the material under defined conditions.

For airborne nitrosamine monitoring in rubber processing environments, the ThermoSorb-N cartridge provides artifact-free air sampling. Collected samples are analysed by GC-TEA.

Which compounds are typically found?

The nitrosamines detected depend on the accelerator system used. Common compounds include NDMA, NDEA, NDBA, NMOR, NPIP, and NPYR. The specific profile varies by formulation, which is why the TEA's ability to detect all nitrosamines without pre-selecting targets is a practical advantage.

What instruments do you need?

For product testing (extractable nitrosamines), a 200 Series or 500 Series GC with 800 Series TEA. For workplace air monitoring, ThermoSorb-N cartridges analysed by GC-TEA. For total nitrosamine screening of raw materials or finished products, the ATNA.

Want to discuss nitrosamine testing for your rubber or elastomer products? Get in touch with the team.