Polymorphism analysis: identification of polymer phases and structure

A change in mechanical, thermal, or processing performance may be linked to an evolution in the structure of polymers, the presence of multiple phases, a copolymeric nature, differences in chain length, or the addition of mineral fillers and organic additives. Polymorphism analysis, phase identification and matrix study help shed light on quality control issues, material comparison, failure analysis, supplier substitution, or reverse engineering. Our laboratory supports manufacturers in determining the nature of the main polymer, confirming any copolymeric structure, qualitatively searching for monomers, oligomers, residual solvents and semi-volatile organic compounds, as well as characterizing the mineral fraction present in the sample.

This service addresses concrete needs: understanding a variation in properties between two batches, comparing a competitor's material, checking the compliance of incoming material, investigating a breakage or embrittlement issue, qualifying a replacement material, or documenting the base formulation of a product. Phase identification is particularly useful for explaining differences in thermal resistance, stiffness, appearance, or processing behavior.

The laboratory relies on a complementary analytical workflow. FTIR quickly identifies the polymer family. Pyrolysis-GC/MS performed over one to three thermal steps enables structural identification, qualitative search for monomers, oligomers, residual solvents at low temperature and semi-volatile organic compounds at higher temperature, as well as fragment comparison to highlight any differences in chain length. TGA measures the decomposition profile up to high temperature and quantifies the residual mineral fraction. SEM-EDX observes the morphology of the fillers and identifies elements such as Ti, Al, Ca or Si.

Filab supports manufacturers in the characterization of polymer materials, thermosets, elastomers and composites. The laboratory adapts the depth of analysis to the actual need: material sorting, understanding molecular structure, base formulation study, or characterization of mineral fillers. This decision-oriented approach delivers results that can be directly used by quality, R&D, purchasing or production teams.

The analytical approach is tailored to your needs: simple identification of the polymer family, in-depth structural study, or combined characterization of the matrix and fillers. The laboratory uses complementary techniques to link composition, thermal behavior, and morphology: FTIR for chemical family identification, pyrolysis-GC/MS for structural identification and qualitative search for characteristic fragments, TGA for the decomposition profile and the mass content of mineral fillers, SEM-EDX for morphological observation and elemental identification of fillers. To learn more about thermal analysis, discover our Polymer Analysis By TGA In The Laboratory or our Polymer Characterization Training.

The analysis provides an actionable view of the polymer matrix and its associated constituents. It highlights the polymer family, whether the sample is copolymeric or not, the possible presence of monomers, oligomers, residual solvents and certain semi-volatile additives such as plasticizers, mold release agents, flame retardants or antioxidants. It also makes it possible to estimate the mass fraction of mineral fillers and specify their elemental nature.

Depending on the objective, the results can range from simple identification of the main polymer to a more complete reading of the base formulation. The laboratory can determine the material family, confirm the presence of a copolymer, interpret thermal degradation signatures, qualitatively identify certain low-level additives, and document the nature of mineral fillers. If needed, these results can be supplemented with other targeted analysis to further investigate extractable organic compounds.

Choosing Filab means benefiting from a partner capable of combining several techniques around the same materials issue, with a cross-reading of analytical data. The laboratory prioritizes clear, contextualized, solution-oriented reporting to help compare two materials, secure supply, investigate a failure or support product development. To explore materials and surfaces topics further, you can also consult Nanomaterials Industrial Coatings and, for material identification approaches, Glass Crystal Identification.

Define the study objective. Communicate the nature of the sample and the industrial context. Compare one or more materials if necessary. Identify the expected depth of analysis: polymer only, detailed structure, light additives, or mineral fillers. Receive a tailored analytical strategy. Use the results to secure a material selection, a quality investigation, or a development project.