Comprehensive Substance Identification

Comprehensive Substance Identification

At The Carlson Company, one of our primary areas of expertise lies in the meticulous identification of unknown chemicals. Our proficiency extends to the intricate process of product reformulation, where the task often involves both identifying and quantifying substances whose nature is initially uncertain. Over the years, we have successfully analyzed a diverse range of unknown contaminants in pharmaceuticals, particles within manufacturing lines, as well as peculiar colors or contaminants present in various consumer products.

The process of determining unknown substances encompasses three key aspects:

  1. Testing and Evaluation: The initial step involves determining the nature of the unknown substance, and discerning whether it is organic or inorganic. This assessment can be conducted through various means, including observation, wet chemistry techniques, or Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy.
  2. Chemical Analysis: Following the initial evaluation, the next stage involves either chemical separation (in cases of mixtures) or direct chemical analysis for both organic and inorganic compounds. Inorganic compounds typically undergo analysis using techniques such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS), anion chromatography, and cation chromatography. Organic substances, on the other hand, are subjected to analysis using methods like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), or wet chemical approaches, depending on the specific characteristics of the substance.
  3. Data Evaluation: The acquired data undergoes a meticulous evaluation process, including the verification of certain tests. This step is crucial as many tests may be susceptible to interference, necessitating a thorough validation of the obtained results.
  4. Quantification and Reporting: If quantification is deemed necessary, standards are analyzed to determine the precise amounts of the identified substances. Subsequently, a comprehensive analysis report is prepared, documenting the findings and insights gathered throughout the identification and quantification process.

Our commitment to precision and thoroughness in these procedures ensures that clients receive accurate and reliable information about the composition of unknown substances, facilitating informed decision-making in diverse industrial and scientific contexts.