Determination of pentane formed during autoxidation of oils contained in solid samples

A convenient and practical technique for the measurement of pentane formed during peroxidation of solid materials containing unsaturated oils was developed. The test has a sensitivity below. 1. parts per million (ppm) and can be used to monitor shelf-life of a variety of products. A special glassware was designed to perform a single extraction-concentration step. The pentane is recovered in 2 ml of hexane and analyzed by gas chromatography. This method correlates well with taste panel scores.