Volume-specific surface area (VSSA) of powders

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.