Pyrolysis–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry

Large molecules cleave at their weakest bonds, producing smaller, more volatile fragments.

Pyrolysis GC chromatograms are typically complex because a wide range of different decomposition products is formed.

The main advantage is that no dedicated instrument has to be purchased and pyrolysis can be performed as part of routine GC analysis.

Quantitative data can be acquired, and good results of derivatization inside the PTV injector are published as well.

[9] Pyrolysis GC is used in forensic laboratories to analyze evidence found in crime scenes such as paints, adhesives, plastics, synthetic fibres and soil extracts.