CHEMICAL 
ANALYTICAL 
SERVICES

Description of analytical method: Rheology is the study of the flow and deformation behavior of materials under various conditions, providing valuable insights into their viscosity, elasticity, and overall consistency. It is a critical analytical method for understanding how substances behave when subjected to forces, making it essential in industries like food, pharmaceuticals, polymers, and coatings. The Anton Paar MCR 302e is a state-of-the-art rheometer designed to deliver precise and reliable rheological measurements. This advanced system uses oscillatory, rotational, and steady shear tests to analyze a material’s flow behavior under different stress and strain conditions.

Description of analytical method: Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) is a powerful technique for measuring particle size and understanding the behavior of particles in suspension. The Anton Paar Litesizer 500 uses DLS for accurate particle size analysis and Zeta Potential measurements, which indicate the surface charge and stability of colloidal dispersions. Zeta potential reflects the electrostatic repulsion between particles. High zeta potential values indicate stable dispersions, while low values can lead to aggregation. The Litesizer 500 utilizes electrophoretic light scattering (ELS) to track particle movement in an electric field, providing precise zeta potential measurements. 
Key features of the Litesizer 500: Accurate Zeta Potential Determination Offers reliable measurements of surface charge for assessing dispersion stability. 
Wide Range of Applications: Ideal for nanoparticles, proteins, colloids, emulsions, and suspensions in industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and materials science. High Sensitivity: Provides precise measurements even in low-concentration samples or at high resolution. By combining DLS and Zeta Potential analysis, the Litesizer 500 enables comprehensive insights into particle size and stability, improving formulations, quality control, and process optimization across various industries.

Description of analytical method: X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) is a non-destructive analytical technique used to determine the elemental composition of materials. When a sample is exposed to high-energy X-rays, it emits secondary (fluorescent) X-rays. The energy and intensity of these fluorescent X-rays are characteristic of the elements present in the sample, enabling precise elemental analysis. The X-MET 8000 Optimum Geo is a portable XRF analyzer designed for field and laboratory applications, particularly in geological, mining, materials and environmental analysis. This handheld device provides fast, accurate, and reliable elemental analysis, making it ideal for on-site measurements. 
Key features of the X-MET 8000 Optimum Geo include: High Precision: Equipped with advanced silicon drift detectors (SDD) for exceptional sensitivity and precise results across a wide range of elements. Portable and Durable: Lightweight and robust, designed to withstand harsh environments and field conditions. Quick Results: Provides immediate analysis, reducing the need for sample preparation and accelerating decision-making processes. The X-MET 8000 Optimum Geo is ideal for geological surveys, mining, soil testing, and environmental analysis, offering quick and accurate elemental composition data in real time.

Description of analytical method: Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) is an advanced analytical technique that uses a high-powered laser to excite a sample, creating a plasma. This plasma emits light, and by analyzing the emitted light spectrum, the elemental composition of the sample can be determined. LIBS is ideal for rapid, multi-elemental analysis with minimal sample preparation and can be used on solids, liquids, and gases. Hitachi’s VULCAN Smart+ is a cutting-edge LIBS analyzer designed for fast, high-resolution elemental analysis. It combines the power of LIBS with an advanced spectrometer, offering precise and reliable results across a wide range of materials. 
Key features of the VULCAN Smart+ include: 
High Sensitivity and Accuracy: Equipped with a high-resolution spectrometer for enhanced elemental detection, the VULCAN Smart+ delivers precise measurements even for trace elements. 
Multi-Element Analysis: Capable of analyzing a broad spectrum of elements simultaneously, from light elements like lithium to heavier elements like lead. 
Portable and Easy to Use: The VULCAN Smart+ is compact and designed for ease of use in both laboratory and field environments, making it ideal for on-site material analysis. 
Real-Time Results: Provides immediate data, allowing for rapid decision-making in industrial and environmental applications. The VULCAN Smart+ is perfect for applications in metallurgy, mining, environmental analysis, and materials science, offering quick, non-destructive elemental analysis with high precision.

Description of analytical method: Testing of heterogeneous honeycomb catalysts and extrudates in a chemical conversion tester is essential for evaluating their performance in industrial applications, such as in catalytic converters for automotive and environmental systems. This process involves subjecting the catalysts to elevated temperatures, up to 600 °C, to simulate real-world conditions and observe their behavior during chemical reactions. The test setup typically measures the concentration of key gases, including SO2, CO, O2, and NH3, NOx, VOCs, which are critical indicators of the catalyst’s efficiency and reactivity. These measurements help assess the catalyst’s ability to facilitate or convert various reactions, such as the oxidation of sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), or ammonia (NH3) under high-temperature conditions. 
Key benefits of this testing include: 
Evaluation of catalytic performance at elevated temperatures, which is crucial for understanding how the catalyst behaves in realistic operational environments. Real-time concentration monitoring of important gas species like SO2, CO, O2, and NH3, providing insights into the catalyst’s activity and selectivity. Durability assessment under high temperatures to ensure long-term stability and effectiveness of the catalyst in real-world applications. This testing process is vital for the development and optimization of honeycomb catalysts and extrudates, ensuring they meet the required performance standards in chemical and environmental applications.

Description of analytical method: A diamond wire saw is a cutting tool primarily used for precision slicing of hard materials, such as stone, concrete, ceramics, silicon wafers, and gemstones. It consists of a wire embedded with industrial-grade diamonds along its length, which are used to cut through materials with exceptional efficiency and accuracy. The diamond particles on the wire provide the abrasive action needed to slice through tough surfaces. The saw operates by continuously feeding the diamond wire through the material to be cut, with the wire passing over a series of pulleys and rotating at high speeds. The wire is usually lubricated with a coolant to reduce heat buildup and friction, enhancing the cutting process and extending the lifespan of the wire. The movement of the wire allows for precise, smooth cuts without excessive heat generation, which can lead to material distortion. Diamond wire saws are often used in industries such as mining, construction, semiconductor manufacturing, and gemstone cutting. They offer several advantages over traditional cutting methods, including the ability to perform thin and intricate cuts, reduced material loss, and a higher level of cutting precision. This makes them ideal for applications requiring high-quality, clean cuts in hard, brittle, or valuable materials.

Description of method: A ceramic kiln is a specialized oven designed to fire ceramics and pottery at high temperatures, typically ranging from 800 °C to 1000 °C for low to medium-temperature ceramics. Its primary function is to apply controlled heat to raw clay pieces or glazed pottery to achieve a durable and hardened final product. The kiln operates by heating the interior chamber through electrical elements or gas burners, depending on the model. As the kiln heats up, the temperature inside is carefully regulated to ensure the clay or glaze undergoes the appropriate transformations. For ceramics fired at temperatures up to 1000 °C, the process generally involves two main stages: 
Bisque Firing: This initial firing transforms raw clay into a hard, durable body. It also removes any remaining moisture and organic impurities from the clay. 
Glaze Firing: In this second stage, the ceramics are coated with a glaze, and the kiln is heated to a high enough temperature to melt and fuse the glaze onto the surface, creating a smooth, glossy finish. Kilns with a maximum temperature of 1000 °C are suitable for firing low-fire ceramics like earthenware and stoneware, where the temperature allows for proper vitrification and glaze fusion without exceeding the material’s capabilities. These kilns provide precise control over temperature, ensuring consistent and high-quality results for ceramic artists and manufacturers.

Description of analytical method: The testo 350 is an advanced emission measurement device designed to monitor and analyze the concentration of various gases in industrial emissions, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and optimizing combustion processes. It is commonly used in industries such as power generation, manufacturing, and waste incineration. The testo 350 functions by measuring the concentration of key gases in flue gases, including CO (carbon monoxide), CO2 (carbon dioxide), NOx (nitrogen oxides), SO2 (sulfur dioxide), O2 (oxygen), and other trace gases. The device utilizes advanced sensors and technology, including electrochemical sensors, infrared sensors, and chemiluminescence detectors, to provide real-time, accurate data on gas concentrations. 
Key features and functions include: 
Continuous Monitoring: Provides continuous, real-time monitoring of emissions, enabling immediate detection of gas levels and ensuring safe, compliant operation. High Precision: The testo 350 offers precise measurements of gas concentrations, even at low levels, ensuring accurate emissions data for regulatory reporting and process optimization. 
Portability: Designed for both stationary and portable use, making it ideal for on-site measurements and field applications. Overall, the testo 350 plays a vital role in improving environmental monitoring, optimizing combustion efficiency, and ensuring compliance with emissions standards.