Providing insights into the chemical and molecular structures, bonding, composition and more.

Polymer chemical testing encompasses polymer compositional analysis into the molecular structure and chemical nature. 

Our FTIR spectrometers (FTIR-ATR and FTIR-microscope) are one of the most important techniques in investigating the polymer chemical structure, as it provides insights into the chemical bonds and functionalities, which are observed as spectral peaks at a particular wavenumber. Our comprehensive internal library reference allows spectral searching to identify the best match to an unknown material, and for more challenging materials, our polymer experts are able to interpret the spectrum and determine the most likely polymer composition. 

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR) is also a powerful tool in identifying the structure of molecules using magnetism and radio waves.  It can reveal information such as the molecular environment, the proximity of atoms, and the nature of the bond of atoms to aid in identification or determine the purity or presence of contamination. 

Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry is another powerful analytical technique useful for the analysis of semi-volatile or volatile chemicals (VOCs). It works on the principle of separating chemical components in a mixture as it passes through a column, followed by identification by Mass Spectrometry which breaks down the component into fragments to identify them based on their mass spectrum fingerprint.  GC-MS can be useful for analysing components absorbed in a polymer, determining volatiles from outgassing or odours, or for chemical compatibility studies/investigations.

For elemental studies, whether you need identification of elements, quantification of elements, mapping distribution of elements, or investigations into contamination, SEM-EDAX or ICP analysis can be used. Our X-Ray Diffraction unit also provides capability into identifying the crystal structure of materials, therefore aiding in the identification of the crystalline material and phase.  

We also offer a number of other chemical analysis of polymers such as degree of crosslinking, intrinsic viscosity, Gel Permeation Chromatography and immersion testing.