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About Additives Analysis

Polymers are useful in a variety of applications because of the combination of polymer selection and the additive package.  Without proper additives polymers do not process well and cannot withstand environmental exposures such as heat, oxygen, ozone, radiation, solvents, water, and stress.

  • Approaches

    Typically Additives Analysis is done to verify product conformance to a formula, compare competing products, determine cause of failure, or guide a development program.

    We analyze the following:

    • Plasticizers
    • Heat stabilizers
    • Antioxidants
    • Antiozonants
    • Light stabilizers
    • Reinforcing fillers
    • Impact modifiers
    • Other fillers and additives

     

  • Sample Considerations

    Additives are removed from the sample and then the extraction solvent is typically analyzed using chromatography to separate the mixture of additives and a spectrometer to provide identification.  Gas Chromatography (GC) and Liquid Chromatography (LC) are often used. 

    Inorganic additives are usually evaluated using Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy while acquiring Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM/EDS) images to determine particle size and shape.

    Contact us to discuss sample considerations specific to your testing needs.

  • Experience

    Products We've Tested:

    • Agricultural products
    • Construction materials
    • Medical products
    • Packaging materials
    • Electronic components