PMUC approval: halogen and sulfur analysis for your materials

Introducing a material, component or supply into a nuclear environment requires control over substances that could affect equipment or circuits. As part of a PMUC approval, verifying halogen and sulfur content provides an objective assessment of the product’s chemical composition before it is submitted as part of a qualification or compliance file.

Polymers, resins, paints, adhesives, lubricants, elastomers, insulation materials and composite materials may contain these elements in trace amounts or at higher concentrations. Conducting an analysis upstream reduces the risk of late-stage non-compliance, facilitates discussions with the contracting authority and helps secure the timelines for placing products on the nuclear market.

The Filab laboratory analyzes polymers, resins, coatings, sealants, adhesives, rubbers, cables, lubricants, powders, coated metal parts and composite materials, among others. Sampling is crucial: it must represent the formulation, batch or product area concerned by the approval.

Measurement methods are selected according to the target elements, the matrix and the concentration levels being investigated. They may require preparation by combustion, extraction, digestion or another appropriate treatment, followed by instrumental measurement. The selected protocol must produce data that can be used in relation to your PMUC requirements.

Each sample must be unambiguously identified and packaged to prevent contamination or material loss. Indicate its name, reference, batch number, form, known composition and, if possible, the quantity available. For a multilayer or assembled material, specify the layer or component to be analyzed.

The Filab laboratory supports industrial companies in carrying out halogen analysis and sulfur analysis on their materials. The analytical strategy is defined according to the nature of the matrix, the elements being sought, the thresholds applicable to your project and the information required in your PMUC application.

For requirements relating to halogenated materials, see our halogen analysis according to IEC 63355. The Filab laboratory provides interpretable results, together with the information needed to identify the sample, the method used and the measured content levels.

Before testing, the Filab laboratory examines the matrix, the sample’s form and the control objective. This step makes it possible to define the appropriate preparation and select the relevant technique. For resin-based formulations, discover our support for PMUC approval and testing of resins.

When knowledge of the formulation or the location of an element within the material is required, additional investigations may be proposed. The observations and elemental analysis available at the SEM analysis laboratory may contribute to the study of particles, defects or specific areas, depending on the technical requirements.

Attach the applicable thresholds, specifications, standards, customer requirements, or PMUC prescriptions for your product. This will enable the Filab laboratory to define a consistent technical proposal, clarify any potential material quantity requirements, and organise the tests according to your deadlines.

To begin the process, contact the Filab laboratory and provide a description of the material, the elements to be measured, the target thresholds, and your approval deadline. Our team will help you define the tests, send the samples, and obtain an analysis report that can be used in your PMUC process.

Describe your product, communicate your requirements, submit your samples, and plan ahead for your approval schedule.