Lab/Cor Materials has purchaced a XRF detector! This state of the art silicon drift detector is capable of detection limits that few other XRF detectors can achieve! Samples can now be analyzed for trace metals content. Analysis for lead content, metal materials I.D., etc. 
Lab/Cor Materials now has access to facilities with a wide array of high-end analytical and spectroscopic equipment for chemical analysis of samples. Equipment includes an Agilent 5975 GC-MS, a Bruker 500MHz NMR, and a wide array of materials identification instruments. This highly precise equipment allows Lab/Cor Materials to perform failure analysis and chemical analysis of virtually any and all samples.
Lab/Cor Materials has recently acquired a HPLC system with both UV-Vis and Fluorescence detectors. This new system adds multiple capabilities to the already extensive list of analysis Lab/Cor Materials is able to perform. Some notable new methods we are able to run include: Formaldehyde analysis by HPLC in accordance with European Union analysis standards to show safety of hair and cosmetic products, fuel analysis and separation targeting polar species that leads to deposit formation, and drug degradation and identification by HPLC fluorescence.
Lab/Cor Materials is also capable of designing custom methods and analysis to meet any of the diverse needs of our clients. Contact our lab to consult with one of our chemists and receive a free quote at 206-508-1470.
We are pleased to add two types of formaldehyde analysis to our list of product testing services. Most formaldehyde people come in contact with is in their clothing, typically used for its anti-wrinkle properties. Additionally, formaldehyde is frequently used in hair care products, sometimes at dangerous levels. For individuals concerned with whether or not their children's clothing or hair care products contain this dangerous material, we offer pass/fail testing that is quick and easy.
Those who wish to determine the exact level of formaldehyde may opt for our calibrated UV-VIS spectrophotometer method which will determine exactly how much is present. For more technical analysis requests we also offer formaldehyde testing by C13 NMR (with detection limits of ~10ppm) and high level analysis by FTIR. Please see call us for a free quote or for more information. We have tests to fit every price range.
A toy being screened for Phthalates
Lab/Cor Materials is pleased to announce that we are now testing for Phthalates. Phthalates (pronounced THAL-ates) are a group of polymer additives which have been shown to cause a variety of health problems for people of all ages. High levels of phthalates can cause damage to the liver and genitals, and children are most susceptible. Small amounts of exposure have been shown to alter hormonal balances, so you may wish to know whether or not your child's toys contain this harmful substance. Beginning in 2009 the concentration of phthalates present in new items will be regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (HR 4040), recently signed into federal law.
Any rubbery or soft item is a possible carrier of phthalates. Toy manufacturers use the additive to make PVC (a normally hard plastic) soft, as in the case of many plastic insects, for example. The most popular type of phthalate is called Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate or DEHP and it is found in everything from children's slippers to common reusable water bottles.
Screening for phthalates is extremely easy and quick. At Lab/Cor Materials, we can test almost anything you bring to us in a non-destructive manner, so you can keep using your phthalate-free items after testing. Testing is done with FT-IR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) and will identify both the type of plastic and whither or not it contains phthalates in seconds.
Check our Product Testing page for more information.
AQ-300 KF Titrator
Lab/Cor has purchased a Karl Fischer Coulometric Titrator for oil moisture analysis. This device allows for extremely sensitive and precise measurement of moisture in many types of oil. Lab/Cor staff have developed standardized methods for measurement of transformer oil and diesel fuels that will allow a high degree of repeatability.
Please contact us for more information.
PCB Analysis now available on fluorescent light ballasts and other products. We will extract the fluid from the capacitors, just bring in the entire ballast. See Analytical Services for more information.
Biodiesel analysis is now included in the list of services that Lab/Cor can provide. We will test to see if your product adheres to the latest ASTM standards using sophisticated and fast methods. Read more.
America's favorite breakfast is bacon and eggs -- and often it is cooked in a product that contains the same chemical that has damaged and destroyed the lungs of hundreds of popcorn and food-flavoring plant workers. Read more.