Determination and classification of flammable liquids by headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

An effective method was established for the determination and classification of flammable liquids by headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-GC-MS). The volatile components, equilibrium temperature and equilibrium time of gravure ink were investigated. The volatile components of flammable liquids were identified by comparison with the standard mass spectrum databases, and quantified by the external standard method. The recoveries were in the range of 92.8% - 103.1% with the relative standard deviations between 0.88% and 2.88%. The flash points of the samples were calculated by a prediction model and compared with the experimentally measured values. The results showed that the maximum deviation between the predicted and measured flash points was 3.2 degrees C This method provides a novel, efficient and convenient way for the classification of flammable liquids.