Laboratory testing services

Phase identification and quantification (Rietveld analysis) of a crystalline powder material using X-ray diffraction (XRD). The analysis can also provide unit cell dimensions. The analysis is only suitable for materials with at least one crystalline phase. The quantification accuracy is roughly 0.1 %, depending on the sample matrix and the phase in question. The available temperature range for XRD measurements is 25-1100 °C and the crystallinity can be studied as a function of temperatures. The measurements can be done under a normal atmosphere, inert gas, or vacuum. Please contact our experts to discuss the available temperature and atmosphere combinations. Please mention which crystalline phases your material contains and which ones are you interested in quantifying when requesting testing. However, the method can be applied to unknown phases as well. Either a tabletop or a synchrotron XRD can be used to perform the measurements.

Determination of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen content of an organic sample. CHNS analysis (”LECO analysis”) is performed using a flash combustion method, where the sample is combusted under 25 kPa of O2 at an elevated temperature (1000 °C), followed by gas chromatography separation and detection using a thermal conductivity detector. Oxygen is analyzed by reduction on granulated carbon at 1480 °C, utilizing high-temperature thermal decomposition and conversion of oxygen into carbon monoxide before gas chromatography separation and detection with a thermal conductivity detector. The sample can be either solid or liquid, but water in the sample affects the results. In the case of aqueous samples, it is possible to dry the sample before analysis. The price includes two parallel measurements. The results are reported as wt-% of the initial sample. The ash, drying and dry loss measurements will increase the minimum required sample material need to 300 mg. The analysis gives the total carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen content of the material, but it does not identify any chemical structures. The measurement can be combined with other methods, such as GC-MS, 1H, and 13C NMR, to perform substance structure identification. Possible element packages: O, CHNS, and CHNOS.

Imaging of the sample using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX or EDS). Typically, several images are taken with varying magnifications to get a good overview of the sample. An EDX mapping, line scan, or point measurement is collected to measure the sample composition (elemental at.% or wt.%). Non-conductive samples can be prepared with a metallic coating. For cross-section measurement, additional preparation might be needed: FIB, BIB, or freeze fracturing.

Imaging of the sample using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Typically, several images are taken with varying magnifications to get a good overview of the sample. Non-conductive samples can be prepared with a metallic coating to allow imaging. For cross-section measurement, additional preparation might be needed: FIB, BIB or freeze fracturing. If compositional analysis is also needed, please see the SEM-EDX measurement.

Quantitative analysis of gliadin and gluten in food, cosmetics, feed, and environmental samples using the ELISA method. Quantification of intact gliadin is used as a measure of gluten. Please note that the method is not accurate for samples that contain fermented or hydrolyzed gluten. According to Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers, gluten-containing cereals (wheat, rye, barley, etc.) must be indicated and emphasized in the list of ingredients, as they are known to cause allergies and intolerances. It is also recommended to provide a voluntary indication if a food product may contain gluten due to unintended contamination. For food to be marketed as gluten-free or very low gluten in the EU, the following criteria must be met: Gluten content does not exceed 20 mg/kg in ‘gluten-free’ products, Gluten content does not exceed 100 mg/kg in ‘very low gluten’ products.

Phthalates are a group of chemicals widely used as plasticizers, which make plastics more flexible and durable. They have also been used as additives in products such as cosmetics and personal care items. Several phthalates have been identified as endocrine-disrupting agents or as chemicals toxic to reproduction. Exposure to phthalates can occur through: Oral exposure Food: Exposure occurs via migration from food packaging., Children's toys: Children often put toys in their mouths.., Inhalation: Breathing in dust from vinyl flooring or fragrances (like perfumes) can cause exposure to phthalates via inhalation., Skin contact: Phthalates present in cosmetics, lotions, and soaps can be absorbed through the skin.. For other listed matrices apart from cosmetics, the analysis package covers the following substances included in the REACH Authorization List: Substance Abbreviation CAS number Diisobutyl phthalate DIBP 84-69-5 Dibutyl phthalate DBP 84-74-2 Benzyl butyl phthalate BBP 85-68-7 Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate DEHP 117-81-7 Di(n-octyl) phthalate DNOP 117-84-0 Diisononyl phthalate DINP 68515-48-0 Diisodecyl phthalate DIDP 26761-40-0 Products that contain restricted phthalates in concentrations higher than 0.1% may be removed from the market. The analysis package for cosmetic products contains the following phthalates: Substance Abbreviation CAS number Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate DEHP 117-81-7 Benzyl butyl phthalate BBP 85-68-7 Dibutyl phthalate DBP 84-74-2 Diisononyl phthalate DINP 68515-48-0 Di(n-octyl) phthalate DNOP 117-84-0 Diisodecyl phthalate DIDP 26761-40-0 All the above-mentioned substances are prohibited in cosmetic products (Annex II of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009).

Imaging of the sample with transmission electron microscope (TEM). Typically, several images with varying magnifications are taken to get a good overview of the sample. TEM allows nm-resolution images. Solid samples often require FIB preparation before analysis. HR-TEM can also be provided. Contact us for more details.

Determination of mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH) with polyolefin oligomeric saturated hydrocarbons (POSH) and mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) in various matrices, including: Food contact materials (e.g., paper, board, plastics, rubber), Printing inks (incl. carbon black), Cosmetic products and raw materials, Lubricating oils and greases, white oils. The results are reported as the concentrations of fractions of MOSH/POSH and MOAH, with grouping based on the number of carbon atoms in the substances. The reported fractions are listed in the table below: MOSH/POSH (C10-C50), total MOAH (C10-C50), total MOSH/POSH (≥C10-≤C16) MOAH (≥C10-≤C16) MOSH/POSH (>C16-≤C20) MOAH (>C16-≤C25) MOSH/POSH (>C20-≤C25) MOAH (>C25-≤C35) MOSH/POSH (>C25-≤C35) MOAH (>C35-≤C50) MOSH/POSH (>C35-≤C40) MOSH/POSH (>C40-≤C50) In case the sample contains high amounts of MOSH, POSH, or poly alpha olefins (PAO), the levels should be indicated before shipping samples. Moreover, the LOQ is higher for samples with high MOSH, POSH, or PAO content due to dilution. Additionally, the safety data sheets (SDS) should be supplied with the samples when available.

Particle size analysis with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The analysis is performed in conformity with the 2022 European Commission recommendation on the definition of nanomaterials (2022/C 229/01). At least 300 particles are measured, the minimum Feret diameter is chosen as the dimensional parameter, and the particle size distribution histogram is reported. By default, the following data are reported: Mean, Median (d50), Number-based nano percentage according to 2022/C 229/01 definition . Please indicate if you want any other statistics reported. These projects are priced per population of similar particles. If the qualitative SEM analysis reveals multiple populations, the price needs to be adjusted according to the number of populations to be reported. This method can be used to establish the presence of small particles including nanoparticles according to EFSA novel food guidance (Particle-TR). In this case, the following statistics are also included in the report: mean and median, 10% value of the total particles, % of the particles that are smaller than 500 nm, % of the fraction of small particles that are smaller than 250 nm. For cosmetics applications, the following statistics are provided: mean and median, 10% value of the total particles, Number-based nano percentage according to 2022/C 229/01 definition . This analysis can be coupled with XRD analysis for crystallinity information, or with VSSA analysis for specific surface area information.

Determination of particle size distribution (PSD) by dynamic light scattering (DLS). Analysis can be done from dispersions or solids that can be dispersed in water or organic solvents. The method is suitable for particle sizes from 0.4 nm to 10 µm.

Determination of allergens from food, feed, or supplement samples with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The following allergens are available for analysis: Peanut, Soy protein, Gliadin/gluten, Casein, Cashew, Egg white, Fish, Hazelnut, Crustaceans, Lupin, Almond, Milk protein, Mollusks, Pistachio, Mustard seed protein, Sesame, ß-Lactoglobulin, Whole egg, Walnut protein. The cost is per allergen per sample. According to EU food labeling requirements, it is mandatory to display allergen information on packaged foods.

Nondestructive 3D analysis of internal structures by X-ray computed tomography. The method visualizes voids, cracks, density, and phase differences within solid structures. The method is most suitable for powdered materials, such as pharmaceutical and cosmetic ingredients. The resolution can go down to 2-3 µm for powders. Please contact us for more information about the analysis options for different materials and material dimensions.

Qualitative or comparative analysis of crystalline powders using X-ray diffraction (XRD). The analysis is only suitable for materials with at least one crystalline phase.

Lignin sample ash content measurement at 525°C. The result is expressed as a mass percentage of the ash from the initial sample on a dry matter basis.

The following analyses are included in this nanoparticle analysis package, intended to characterize nanoforms according to the REACH Regulation. Particle size distribution and aspect ratios by SEM-EDX Preparation with isopropanol, Sample dispersion on a slide, with centrifugation, SEM analysis and particle count by image analysis, Nanoparticle detection and classification according to the 2022 EC recommendation on the definition of nanomaterial, Reporting of PSD parameters for ~300 particles, including the following: PSD diagram, accumulated and individual., Feret min (min, d10, d25, d50, d75, d90, d95, max), Feret max (min, d10, d25, d50, d75, d90, d95, max), Equivalent circular diameter (min, d10, d25, d50, d75, d90, d95, max), Aspect ratio (calculated based on individual Feret min and Feret max measurements), Number based nano-fraction (%).. Crystal phase analysis by XRD/Rietveld method Sample preparation: drying, grinding, X-ray preparation, XRD analysis over an angular range extending from 10° to 90°, Identification of the crystalline phases present in the sample, Semi-quantitative analysis of phase distribution, using the Rietveld method, Interpretation of diffractograms. Chemical composition/purity by ICP-AES and CHNS analysis ICP-AES quantification of inorganic and metallic elements: Ag, Al, As, B, Ba, Be, Bi, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, P, Pb, S, Se, Sb, Si, Sn, Sr, V, Zn, Ti, and Tl, Determination of C, H, N, and S with an elemental analyzer. Volume-specific surface area (VSSA) and VSSA diameter calculations (optional) BET specific surface area measurement of powder by nitrogen adsorption, True (skeletal) density measurement by He pycnometry, excluding intergranular and intragranular porosity, Both analyses include sample preparation. You can request a quote for the analysis using the form below. Please note that the OECD 125 guideline does not apply to this analysis.

Test of 1 bottle at 20 °C with Malvern Spraytec to characterize particle sizes between 0.1 µm and 900 µm with a standard distance between the nozzle and the laser beam. The results are reported for 3 repeat shots. Particle size distribution histograms, percent finers (Dv10, Dv50, Dv90), and % of particles smaller than 5 µm, 10 µm, and 50 µm are reported. Providing two 100% charge spray bottles per analysis is recommended for aerosols. Contact us for a quote and more information on analyses under nonstandard conditions.

Analysis of fragrance allergens as specified in Commission Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products. This wide GC-MS/MS screening covers substances added to Annex III of the cosmetic products regulation by Regulation (EC) No 2023/1545, which added dozens of new entries to the allergen list. Some prohibited substances, such as Lilial and Lyral, are also tested for. The following substances are included in the analysis: Substance Reference number in Regulation 1223/2009 Status Benzyl alcohol 45 Restricted (Annex III) 6-Methyl Coumarin 46 Restricted (Annex III) Amyl cinnamal 67 Restricted (Annex III) Cinnamyl alcohol 69 Restricted (Annex III) Citral, Geranial, Neral 70 Restricted (Annex III) Eugenol 71 Restricted (Annex III) Hydroxycitronellal 72 Restricted (Annex III) Isoeugenol 73 Restricted (Annex III) Amylcinnamyl alcohol 74 Restricted (Annex III) Benzyl salicylate 75 Restricted (Annex III) Cinnamal 76 Restricted (Annex III) Coumarin 77 Restricted (Annex III) Geraniol 78 Restricted (Annex III) Anise alcohol 80 Restricted (Annex III) Benzyl cinnamate 81 Restricted (Annex III) Farnesol 82 Restricted (Annex III) Linalool 84 Restricted (Annex III) Benzyl benzoate 85 Restricted (Annex III) Citronellol 86 Restricted (Annex III) Hexyl cinnamal 87 Restricted (Annex III) Limonene 88 Restricted (Annex III) Methyl 2-Octynoate 89 Restricted (Annex III) alpha-Isomethyl ionone 90 Restricted (Annex III) Evernia prunastri extract 91 Restricted (Annex III) Evernia furfuracea extract 92 Restricted (Annex III) Musk xylene 96 Restricted (Annex III) Musk ketone 97 Restricted (Annex III) Methyl eugenol 102 Restricted (Annex III) Alpha-Terpinene 131 Restricted (Annex III) Terpinolene 133 Restricted (Annex III) Acetyl Hexamethyl indan (Phantolide) 134 Restricted (Annex III) 4-tert.- Butyldihydrocinnamaldehyde (Bourgenoal) 155 Restricted (Annex III) Sum of rose ketones: Alpha-Damascone, cis-Rose ketone 1, trans-Rose ketone 1, Rose ketone 4 (Damascone), Rose ketone 3 (delta-Damascone), trans-Rose ketone 3, cis-Rose ketone 2 (cis-beta-Damascone), trans-Rose ketone 2 (trans-beta-Damascone) 157 Restricted (Annex III) 3-Propylidenephthalide 175 Restricted (Annex III) Acetyl hexamethyl tetralin (Tonalide) 182 Restricted (Annex III) Methyl-N-methylanthranilate 323 Restricted (Annex III) Methyl Salicylate 324 Restricted (Annex III) Acetyl Cedrene 327 Restricted (Annex III) Amyl Salicylate 328 Restricted (Annex III) Anethole (analyzed as trans-Anethole) 329 Restricted (Annex III) Benzaldehyde 330 Restricted (Annex III) Camphor 331 Restricted (Annex III) Beta-Caryo-phyllene 332 Restricted (Annex III) Carvone 333 Restricted (Annex III) Dimethyl Phenethyl Acetate (analyzed as Dimethylbenzyl Carbinyl Acetate) 334 Restricted (Annex III) Hexadecanolactone 335 Restricted (Annex III) Hexamethylindanopyran 336 Restricted (Annex III) Linalyl Acetate 337 Restricted (Annex III) Menthol 338 Restricted (Annex III) Trimethylcyclopentenyl Methylisopentenol 339 Restricted (Annex III) Salicylaldehyde 340 Restricted (Annex III) Santalol (analyzed as alpha-Santalol, beta-Santalol, Santalol (sum of isomers)) 341 Restricted (Annex III) Sclareol 342 Restricted (Annex III) Terpineol (analyzed as alpha-Terpineol, beta-Terpineol, gamma-Terpineol, Terpineol (sum of isomers)) 343 Restricted (Annex III) Tetramethyl acetyloctahydronaphthalenes 344 Restricted (Annex III) Trimethylbenzenepropanol 345 Restricted (Annex III) Vanillin 346 Restricted (Annex III) Versalide 362 Restricted (Annex III) Eugenyl Acetate 368 Restricted (Annex III) Geranyl Acetate 369 Restricted (Annex III) Isoeugenyl Acetate 370 Restricted (Annex III) Pinene (analyzed as alpha-Pinene, beta-Pinene, Pinene (sum of isomers)) 371 Restricted (Annex III) Musk Ambrette 414 Prohibited (Annex II) Moskene 421 Prohibited (Annex II) Musk Tibetene 422 Prohibited (Annex II) 4-(4-Hydroxy-4-methylpentyl) cyclohex-3-ene1-carbaldehyde (Lyral) 1380 Prohibited (Annex II) 2,6-Dihydroxy-4-methyl-benzaldehyde (atranol) 1381 Prohibited (Annex II) 3-Chloro-2,6-Dihydroxy-4-methyl-benzaldehyde (chloroatranol) 1382 Prohibited (Annex II) 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde (Lilial) 1666 Prohibited (Annex II) Traseolide (musk fragrance) - Not listed Cashmeran (musk fragrance) - Not listed Celestolid (musk fragrance) - Not listed In most cases, the presence of individual fragrance allergens must be indicated on cosmetics packaging if their concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products or 0.01% in rinse-off products. More detailed restrictions are outlined in annexes to the consolidated version of Regulation (EC) 1223/2009.

Microbiological test package for cosmetic products according to European Pharmacopoeia methods EP 2.6.12 and EP 2.6.13. The most recent edition of the pharmacopoeia is followed. The following parameters are included in the analysis: TAMC according to EP 2.6.12, TYMC according to EP 2.6.12, S. aureus according to EP 2.6.13, P. aeruginosa according to EP 2.6.13, E. coli according to EP 2.6.13, C. albicans according to EP 2.6.13.

Determination of volume-specific surface area (VSSA) for the identification of nanoparticles. VSSA can be calculated from the specific surface area obtained by N2 adsorption and the BET method, and the effective density obtained by He Pycnometry. The measurement is a part of the EC recommendation for the definition of nanomaterials (2022/C229/01). According to the recommendation, materials with a VSSA of < 6 m2/cm3 are not considered nanomaterials.

Determination of caffeine from food and dietary supplements with an HPLC-UV-VIS method. According to Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers, caffeine-containing products must be labeled with the following disclaimers: "High caffeine content. Not recommended for children or pregnant or breast-feeding women". The label applies to beverages other than tea or coffee that contain more than 150 mg/l of caffeine., "Contains caffeine. Not recommended for children or pregnant women". The label applies to food and supplements where caffeine is added for a physiological purpose.. The caffeine content of applicable products needs to be expressed on the label in mg per 100 g/ml, or per portion in the case of supplements.

Particle size distribution (PSD) is determined from transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images. The method is most suitable for small particles of 50 nm or smaller. Depending on particle shapes, the method includes calculating the diameters or lengths and widths of particles. In addition to size, TEM provides qualitative information about the surface morphology of the particles. TEM is a good option for irregularly shaped and non-spherical particles such as fibers, rods, and crystals that cannot be characterized meaningfully with traditional methods, including laser diffraction (LD) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). As a result of the analysis, TEM images and the determined particle size distribution for diameter (or length and width) are delivered. Dry samples are suitable for TEM as is. If the particles are wet or dispersed in a solvent, the sample may be dried with a suitable sample preparation method before imaging.

Performance evaluation of barrier creams to showcase their efficacy 24 or 48 hours after application. In the test, barrier cream is applied to the skin of human volunteers, and its efficacy is evaluated by measuring the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) after controlled irritation via sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). The cream can be considered effective if the TEWL in the area where the cream is applied is lower than in the control area. Testing is conducted with 10 or 20 volunteers, and the price of the study depends on the number of volunteers.