Mass spectrometric analysis of halogenated polymers

Controlled pyrolysis—electron impact mass spectrometry is a general method for the identification of polymers. It is shown here to be useful for the diagnosis of commercial halogen-containing polymers. The application of the technique both in a purely fingerprinting role, and by rationalising spectra in terms of structure and generalised thermal degradation pathways, is demonstrated. Inorganic oxides can have a secondary effect on degradative behaviour and spectral form.