Application of sorbent tube sampling coupled with GC-MS for quantification of methyl methacrylate monomer yields from pyrolysis of poly(methyl methacrylate)

This study presents the development and validation of a novel analytical method for quantifying methyl methacrylate (MMA) yields generated during the controlled pyrolysis of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) in a Fire Propagation Apparatus (FPA). Active gas sampling using sorbent tubes, coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), was employed to selectively capture and analyze MMA. This study developed and validated a robust analytical method with high selectivity, sensitivity, and reproducibility, achieving accurate quantification of MMA yields under fire-like conditions. MMA mass yield values were calculated to range between 86.4 % and 89.4 % with average uncertainties of ± 1.5 %. The study found no significant difference in MMA yields across different heat flux settings (25, 50, and 75 kW/m²). Additionally, no significant variation in MMA yield was observed between cast and extruded PMMA under a heat flux of 75 kW/m². Non-targeted analysis of the pyrolyzates revealed the presence of a variety of compounds, with significant contributions from ester and carboxylic acid groups. The method’s practicality and versatility make it suitable for applications in polymer recycling, fire safety modeling, and air quality monitoring. • Sorbent tube sampling coupled to GC-MS quantified MMA yields during PMMA pyrolysis. • Method showed high sensitivity and reproducibility. • MMA yields were 86.4–89.4 % and did not depend on imposed heat flux. • Cast and extruded PMMA showed similar yields. • Non-targeted analysis revealed ester and carboxylic acids as by-products.