Elemental Characterization

Our Abilities

Our elemental analysis techniques include, but are not limited to:

• Laser-Induced Plasma Spectroscopy (LIPS)

LIPS, as a type of atomic emission spectroscopy, utilizes high-energy laser pulses to induce high-temperature plasma formation. Based on the fact that each element in the periodic table is associated with a unique LIBS spectral peak, LIBS can quickly determine the elemental composition of a sample by identifying different peaks. Compared with other elemental analysis techniques, LIPS has many advantages, including: (I)Short measurement time, only a few seconds; (II) Low noise floor; (III) Wide range of detected elements; (IV) No pre-experiment, easy to operate.

• Energy Dispersive X-ray(EDX) Analysis

EDX is a surface analysis technique capable of identifying and quantifying elemental composition in even extremely small samples. EDX is often used in conjunction with electron microscopy equipment. The advantages of EDX are the simplicity of the process, quick identification and non-destructiveness.

Fig.1 Energy dispersive X-ray analysis to represent the elemental composition of colloidal AgNPs.^[2]

• Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS) and Organic Carbon Detector (OCD)

ICP-MS is a typical elemental analysis technique capable of analyzing trace elements at the level of milligrams to nanograms per liter. The advantages of this technique are multi-element detection capability, short analysis time and simple sample preparation. OCD is an analytical technique for the detection of organic components, which can be used in conjunction with liquid chromatography to separate different fractions and perform quantitative detection separately.

Fig.2 Asymmetric Flow Field Flow Fractionation (AF⁴)-ICP-MS and AF⁴-OCD raw data fractograms.^[3]

Our Services

Alfa Chemistry's elemental analysis services rely on state-of-the-art elemental analysis equipment. Our sample range is not limited to colloidal materials but also includes biological tissues, metals, plastics, soils and chemical macromolecules.

 From sample preparation, we will provide the most suitable testing conditions and testing systems for your samples to ensure the reliability and accuracy of testing results.

References

1. Pu X Y, et al. Sensitive elemental analysis of aqueous colloids by laser-induced plasma spectroscopy. Applied Physics Letters. 2003, 83(16):3416-3418.
2. Javed, et al. Synergistic Effects of Physicochemical Parameters on Bio-Fabrication of Mint Silver Nanoparticles: Structural Evaluation and Action Against HCT116 Colon Cancer Cells. International Journal of Nanomedicine. 2020.
3. N. Gottselig, et al. Elemental Composition of Natural Nanoparticles and Fine Colloids in European Forest Stream Waters and Their Role as Phosphorus Carriers. Global Biogeochemical Cycles. 2017, 31(10).

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