Plastics & Composites

Materials Identification & Characterisation

Plastics & Composites

Our chemical analysis of plastic or composite material, can determine any batch-to-batch variation in raw materials.

All investigative work uses our cutting-edge instruments, backed with a fully unbiased and scientifically valid expert opinion. 

Both plastic and composite sheets and components are used in thousands of different applications and given the plethora of counterfeit materials in circulation, isn’t it wise to ensure that the materials which you are using, are from a genuine source with known properties?

Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), we have the knowledge to determine if there is any difference in the chemical composition of any two materials and below, we introduce one matter which utilised our expertise.

All investigative work uses our cutting-edge instruments, backed with a fully unbiased and scientifically valid expert opinion.

What are the issues we solve?

Identifying the chemical composition of a plastic or composite material. This is especially important where it is suspected that a polymer material, other than what was specified, was used. 

For example:

In the investigation of counterfeit goods, in particular inkjet printing cartridges, the chemical characterisation of the material used, is a critical component of any alleged counterfeit goods investigation.

How we found a solution for our client

The Problem: A medical device manufacturer were prototyping a new product and asked us to confirm the composition of a plastic ‘O’ ring which they understood to be polypropylene.

The Process: Two of the ‘O’ rings were sent to our laboratory where they received specimen numbers and were photographed.

The Result: Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), we identified and compared the chemical composition of both ‘O’ rings. The FT-IR works by exciting the chemical bonds with infrared light, with the different chemical bonds while in this excited state, absorbing light energy at frequencies which are unique to the various bonds. Our analysis showed that both ‘O’ rings were polypropylene.

Who could benefit?

Sectors that could benefit from characterisation of plastics & composites

Importers and fabricators of plastic components for use in the electronics, medical device, sign & display, automotive, and household goods sector. Also users of composite materials in the construction, transport or marine sectors. 

Equipment

Equipment used can include:

  • Bruker Lumos 2 Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy Microscope
  • OrionStar T910
  • Stuart SMP3
  • Bruker Alpha 2 Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
  • Perkin Elmer Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
  • Hitachi TM4000 Scanning Electron Microscope
  • Oxford Instruments AztecXplore Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy.

Our business is solving problems, so talk to us now.

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