Contamination Analysis of Powders and Particles
Contamination analysis of powders, particles and particulates.
Intertek test powders and other particles for contamination. Both identification and extent of the contamination issue can be analyzed.
Contamination in powders, examples:
- Extraneous metal particles from, for instance, pipes, pumps and vessels
- Black speck contamination within a white powder product
- Highly coloured material within more lightly coloured product
- Particles of quite different particle size and/or shape to the bulk of the material
Using microscopy techniques, contaminant particles are imaged and compared to the main population. Following an initial assessment, analysis can be performed using EDX on isolated particles (in the SEM) or vibrational spectroscopy (infra-red or RAMAN), as appropriate. When the size or shape of the contaminating particles is the issue, image analysis is used to assess and quantify the degree of contamination so that comparisons with other batches or a retained standard can be made.
Powder, particle and particulate contamination analysis techniques:
- Microscopy (optical, confocal, SEM and TEM)
- Vibrational spectroscopy: Infra-red and RAMAN
- Surface analysis: XPS and SSIMS
- Thermal analysis (e.g. predominantly DSC)
Contamination testing:
Related Services:
Contact us to see how Intertek can help your organization with Contamination Analysis of Powders and Particles.