REACH substance identification testing services for accurate identification of a substance for lead and co-registrants based on high quality test data

REACH substance identification (substance ID) testing through appropriate test data allows the accurate identification of a substance which is a key requirement for the REACH processes. Substance ID tests enables correct joint REACH registrations to be prepared.

Substance identity is established through the substance name, related identifying numbers and information on the chemical structure, composition and purity of the substance which should be determined by chemical analysis.

Substance ID requirements include accurate structure, composition and purity information which ECHA can review to clearly establish that the identity of your substance is correct. To achieve this, high quality test data including spectra and chromatograms, as well as other analytical information, will need to be included in your REACH registration dossier.

Our scientists establish substance identity as per The Guidance for identification and naming of substances under REACH and CLP. Our scientists apply a range of analytical techniques including spectroscopy techniques to confirm the molecular structure and suitable chromatographic methods to verify composition of the main constituent and purity / impurities. Our test data is delivered with comprehensive interpretation if required. We have many years of experience delivering substance identity packages for mono- and multi-constituent substances as well as UVCB.  Our global network of accredited REACH testing laboratories includes GLP compliant laboratories.

With scientists who are experienced in structural elucidation, purity and impurity testing and trace species analysis our substance ID services have played a key role in registration dossiers supporting the previous REACH deadlines for multiple clients around the world as part of our comprehensive suite of REACH testing, Dossier compilation and Consulting solution. Our consultants have significant successful experience with the REACH Inquiry process where the data has been directly reviewed and evaluated by ECHA.

With many years of experience our scientists design the most appropriate analytical programs to meet your substance ID requirements. Our specialist method development visibility across a wide range of techniques mean that we only apply the most appropriate analytical methods  depending on the nature of the substances themselves. In addition, the level of detail required will depend on the composition and type of impurities found. 

If it is deemed that further analytical data are required supporting the substance identification then our experts are able to rapidly identify what is required, communicate this to you and present a implementation plan that will deliver data with justification that is transparent, accountable and ensures consistency.

Our spectroscopy teams provide quality spectral data to confirm the structure of mono-constituent substances. Several spectroscopic methods should be used in combination, in particular ultraviolet and visible absorption spectroscopy (UV/Vis), infrared spectroscopy (IR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) and mass spectroscopy (MS).  We offer tailored packages as required, for example a minimum spectral data package would include UV-Vis, IR, MS and NMR plus a chosen chromatographic method such as HPLC or GC.

For inorganic substances we apply inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy with mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) or optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), X-ray diffraction (XRD) or X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Ion chromatography is suitable for determination of anions and cations.

Chromatographic methods, such as Gas Chromatography (GC) or High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) are needed to confirm the purity of the substance. If appropriate, also other valid constituent separation techniques may be used.

We provide specialist methods capable of identifying specific isomers, e.g.  geometrical or optical isomers, particular salt forms, morphologies or any other defining attribute of the substance where relevant.
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