CHNOS analysis of organic materials

Determination of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen content of the organic sample. CHNS analysis (”LECO analysis”) is performed using Dumas combustion method, where the sample is combusted at elevated temperature followed by gas chromatography separation and detection using thermal conductivity. Oxygen is analysed using Unterzaucher pyrolysis method, which utilizes high temperature thermal decomposition and conversion of sample's oxygen into carbon monoxide before gas chromatography separation and detection by thermal conductivity.

The sample can be either solid or liquid, but water in the sample affects the result. 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 analysis gives the total carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen content of the material, but it does not identify any chemical structures. Can be combined with other methods, such as GC-MS, 1H, and 13C NMR, to perform substance structure identification.

Possible element packages: CHN, CHNO, CHNS, and CHNOS.

Suitable sample matrices
Solid and liquid organic materials
Minimum sample amount
20 mg
Typical turnaround time
2 weeks after receiving the samples
Detection limit
0.05 wt-% (500 ppm) for C, H and N, 0.100 wt-% for sulfur, and 0.050 wt-% for oxygen.
Quality system
Accredited test method
Device types
Method expert
Juha Keskiväli

Order this test online

First sample (VAT 0):
200 €
Additional samples (VAT 0):
78 €per sample
If you have a large number of samples, contact us for a possible discount.

Samples are entered during checkout.

Our experts review all orders to ensure the testing method is suitable for your needs and samples.

Large number of samples or specialized needs?

Questions? We're happy to help.

Questions? We're happy to help.

Ringing phone

Ask for an offer

Fill in the form, and we'll reply in one business day.

Answering the following questions helps us prepare an offer for you faster:

  • How many samples do you have and what is the sample material?
  • Do you have a recurring need for these tests? If yes, how often and for how many samples at a time?

Have questions or need help? Email us at or call +358 50 336 6128.