Testing services / Mineral oil (MOSH/POSH and MOAH) hydrocarbon content in non-food samples

Mineral oil (MOSH/POSH and MOAH) hydrocarbon content in non-food samples

Determination of mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH) with polyolefin oligomeric saturated hydrocarbons (POSH) and mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) in various matrices, including:

Food contact materials (e.g., paper, board, plastics, rubber)
Printing inks (incl. carbon black)
Cosmetic products and raw materials
Lubricating oils and greases, white oils

The results are reported as the concentrations of fractions of MOSH/POSH and MOAH, with grouping based on the number of carbon atoms in the substances. The reported fractions are listed in the table below:

MOSH/POSH (C10-C50), total	MOAH (C10-C50), total
MOSH/POSH (≥C10-≤C16)	MOAH (≥C10-≤C16)
MOSH/POSH (>C16-≤C20)	MOAH (>C16-≤C25)
MOSH/POSH (>C20-≤C25)	MOAH (>C25-≤C35)
MOSH/POSH (>C25-≤C35)	MOAH (>C35-≤C50)
MOSH/POSH (>C35-≤C40)
MOSH/POSH (>C40-≤C50)

In case the sample contains high amounts of MOSH, POSH, or poly alpha olefins (PAO), the levels should be indicated before shipping samples. Moreover, the LOQ is higher for samples with high MOSH, POSH, or PAO content due to dilution. Additionally, the safety data sheets (SDS) should be supplied with the samples when available.

Suitable sample matrices: Food packaging (paper and cardboard, printing inks, jute bags, plastic materials), cosmetics, lubricating oils, carbon black
Required sample quantity: 50 g, packed in original packaging or in a glass jar/vial or other inert (non-plastic) container. In case the storage bottle has a plastic cap, use foil as a liner. Clean sampling, no plastic gloves.
Typical turnaround time: 4 weeks after receiving the samples
Detection limit: Typically 0.5 - 3 mg/kg (matrix-dependent). If MOSH/POSH/PAO content is very high, LOQ is typically 5-1000 mg/kg for the MOAH fraction.
Available quality systems: Accredited test method
Device types: LC-GC-FID
Method expert: Niko Markkinen