Particle size distribution using dynamic light scattering (DLS)

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.

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.

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.

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.

The analysis determines the concentration of substances listed in Annex I to Directive (EU) 2024/3019 on urban wastewater treatment. Substances that can be very easily treated: Amisulprid (CAS: 71675-85-9), Carbamazepine (CAS: 298-46-4), Citalopram (CAS: 59729-33-8), Clarithromycin (CAS: 81103-11-9), Diclofenac (CAS: 15307-86-5), Hydrochlorothiazide (CAS: 58-93-5), Metoprolol (CAS: 37350-58-6), Venlafaxine (CAS: 93413-69-5). Substances that can be easily disposed of: Benzotriazole (CAS: 95-14-7), Candesartan (CAS: 139481-59-7), Irbesartan (CAS: 138402-11-6), 4-Methylbenzotriazole (CAS No 29878-31-7), 5-methyl-benzotriazole (CAS No 136-85-6), The sum of 4-Methylbenzotriazole & 5-methyl-benzotriazole can be reported if requested. This analysis is intended for untreated wastewater. We also offer an analysis with the same target analytes for treated wastewater to determine how effectively the substances are removed during the treatment process. Read more about the testing requirements imposed by the new Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive here.

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.

Analysis to determine the concentrations of organic substances (pharmaceuticals and drug precursors) listed in the revised Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (EU) 2024/3019. The analysis includes eight substances that can be very easily treated: Amisulprid (CAS: 71675-85-9), Carbamazepine (CAS: 298-46-4), Citalopram (CAS: 59729-33-8), Clarithromycin (CAS: 81103-11-9), Diclofenac (CAS: 15307-86-5), Hydrochlorothiazide (CAS: 58-93-5), Metoprolol (CAS: 37350-58-6), Venlafaxine (CAS: 93413-69-5). And four substances that can be easily disposed of: Benzotriazole (CAS: 95-14-7), Candesartan (CAS: 139481-59-7), Irbesartan (CAS: 138402-11-6), Mixture of 4-Methylbenzotriazole (CAS No 29878-31-7) and 6-methyl-benzotriazole (CAS No 136-85-6). This method is suitable for wastewater samples with low total solids and dissolved solids content. Please check the suitability of the sample matrix with the testing expert when requesting an offer.

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.

Determination of microplastics in wastewater using FTIR microspectroscopy. The results of the analysis will specify different types of polymers by size, for example, 10–50 µm, 50–100 µm, 100–500 µm, and >500 µm. This analysis is suitable for natural waters and typical wastewater samples. Please note that both of these matrices need digestion sample preparation due to the possible solid particles in the samples. For special water matrices (process water, industrial water, etc.), please contact the method expert before ordering.