Ethylene oxide (EtO) is one of the most widely produced chemical worldwide. It is mainly used as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of numerous important chemicals such as mono-, di-, tri- and polyethylene glycols as well as various ethanol-amines and glycol-ethers. These chemicals are either used directly, or as intermediates for the fabrication of other important products, such as polymers (e.g. PET) and surfactants (e.g. ethanol-amines and ethanol-amides). Other important products derived from EtO are modified polysaccharides (e.g. hydroxyethyl cellulose) and tris-(2-chlorethyl)-phosphate (TCEP).
Current Scenario
Ethylene oxide is a colourless gas with a faint and sweet odour, which is a critical sterilizing agent for medical equipment that cannot withstand high temperatures. Despite its utility, EtO poses significant health risks. Once in contact with the food EtO undergoes various reactions within the matrix. Reaction products include ethylene glycol, 2-chloroethanol (2-CE) and 2- bromoethanol. Furthermore, EtO directly reacts with matrix components, such as amino acids, purines and fatty acids forming hydroxy-ethyl adducts. 2-CE also undergoes reactions with fatty acids forming 2-CE esters. 2-CE and the various reaction products of EtO and 2- CE are only removed at a limited extent during aeration and many of them can serve as markers for EtO-fumigations. Its long-term exposure is linked to various cancers, reproductive effects, and neurotoxic effects. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other regulatory bodies have classified EtO as a human carcinogen, leading to stringent regulations and monitoring requirements. In recent years, there has been growing concern about EtO emissions from industrial facilities and their impact on public health. Communities near these facilities have reported higher incidences of cancer and other health issues, prompting legal actions and demands for stricter controls. This scenario underscores the urgent need for effective detection and mitigation measures to protect public health and the environment.
Need for Detection
EtO is reportedly carcinogenic (e.g., lymphoma and leukemia), mutagenic, and reprotoxic, and is not approved as per the Food Safety and Standards Act. Similarly, 2-CE demonstrates carcinogenic and reproductive toxic properties in some studies.
The maximum residue level (MRLs) of EtO in accordance with the Commission Regulation (EU) 2015/868 for different metrics is given in the table below.
| S. No. |
Matrix |
MRLs For EtO (as sum of EtO and 2-CE) |
| 1. |
Teas, cocoa & spices |
0.10 mg/kg |
| 2. |
Nuts, oil fruits & oilseeds |
0.05 mg/kg |
| 3. |
Fruits, vegetables, sugar plants, fungi & pulses |
0.02 mg/kg |
| 4. |
Cereals & products of animal origin |
0.02 mg/kg |
| 5. |
Apicultural products |
0.05 mg/kg |
The harmful effects of EtO, even at low concentrations, necessitate robust detection mechanisms. The key reasons for the need for detection include:
1. Health Risks: EtO is a known carcinogen with significant health risks associated with both acute and chronic exposure. Monitoring ensures that exposure levels remain below harmful thresholds.
2. Regulatory Compliance: Industries using or emitting EtO must comply with regulations set by environmental and health authorities. Accurate detection helps in maintaining compliance and avoiding penalties.
3. Environmental Protection: EtO is not only a health hazard but also poses environmental risks. Detecting and controlling its release helps protect ecosystems.
4. Public Safety: Timely detection of EtO leaks in industrial settings can prevent accidents and protect workers and nearby communities.
Requirements for Detection
Effective detection of EtO involves several critical requirements:
1. Sensitivity: Detection systems must be capable of identifying very low concentrations of EtO to ensure safety and compliance with stringent regulatory limits.
2. Accuracy and Reliability: High accuracy and reliability are essential to provide confidence in the data and avoid false alarms or missed detections.
3. Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous, real-time monitoring is crucial in industrial settings to promptly identify and address leaks or emissions.
4. Compliance with Standards: Detection equipment and methodologies should comply with national and international standards to ensure consistency and reliability.
5. User-Friendly and Cost-Effective: The detection systems should be easy to operate and maintain, and cost-effective for widespread adoption, especially in smaller facilities.
At FARE Labs, we offer comprehensive ethylene oxide detection services utilizing our state- of-the-art facilities. Analysis of EtO in FARE Labs is done using the GC-MS/MS (Triple Quadrupole) instrument that is capable of detecting its low concentrations in various matrices with an LOQ of 0.01 mg/kg, ensuring its precise and reliable detection. Experience excellence in testing with FARE Labs Pvt. Ltd. – where precision meets safety. Join industry leaders who rely on our expertise to ensure their products are free from harmful residues and safe for consumption. Partner with us for reliable, efficient, and thorough EtO testing solutions.
