Analysing for 4,4′-diaminodiphenylmethane in heritage collections containing solid and medium density fexible linear polyester polyurethanes using liquid chromatography/ mass spectrometry

Polyurethane (PUR) shoe soles from collections held by the Alfred Gillett Trust, stored for up to 50 years, were analysed for the presence of 4,4′ diaminodiphenylmethane (4,4′-MDA)—a substance of very high concern in Europe and classifed as a carcinogen in USA.