Heavy metals analysis laboratory

To carry out heavy metal testing in a product, an analytical laboratory can use different techniques.

• The most commonly used technique is atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). This method involves vaporizing the product to be analyzed to create a cloud of atoms, which are then excited by a light source. The heavy metals present in the cloud absorb part of this light, making it possible to measure their concentration.
• Another method often used is X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF). This technique uses an X-ray source to excite the heavy metals present in the product. These then emit fluorescence, which makes it possible to measure their concentration.
• There are also other methods such as ion chromatography, mass spectrometry and voltammetry, which can be used depending on the type of product to be analyzed and the sensitivity required for heavy metal detection.

In all cases, it is important to follow strict protocols to ensure accurate and reliable results. Analytical laboratories must comply with strict quality standards and use state-of-the-art equipment to carry out these important analysis.

There are several measures companies can take to prevent heavy metal contamination in their manufacturing processes. Here are a few examples:

• Identify potential sources of contamination: Companies should carry out a thorough assessment of their manufacturing processes to identify potential sources of heavy metal contamination. This may include the use of raw materials containing heavy metals, inadequate processing or handling equipment, or discharges of contaminated industrial wastewater.
• Put quality control procedures in place: Companies should implement quality control procedures to ensure that finished products do not contain excessive amounts of heavy metals. This may include regular heavy metal testing and compliance verification protocols, as well as the introduction of strict production standards.
• Use safer substitutes: In some cases, companies may be able to use safer substitutes to replace heavy metals in their manufacturing processes. More environmentally friendly and sustainable alternatives can be used to replace products containing heavy metals.
• Train employees: Companies should raise awareness among and train their employees on the risks associated with heavy metal contamination and the preventive measures that must be put in place to minimize risks. Employees should be informed about safety procedures, personal protective equipment, and emergency protocols.

Heavy metal analysis is used to monitor pollution levels in water and soil, identify sources of pollution, and characterize the behavior of metals under certain conditions. It applies to a range of industries, starting with the luxury goods and jewelry industry, cosmetics, and plastics manufacturing, among others.

• Metal jewelry can also be at risk, as they may contain lead, cadmium, or nickel.
• cosmetics such as mascara or lipstick may contain chromium, mercury or lead, as may their raw materials. 
• plastics, packaging and recycled glass are also materials affected by heavy metal analysis and testing in the laboratory.

ICP-MS and ICP-AES are the most widely used techniques for quantifying heavy metals at trace or ultra-trace levels. ICP-MS achieves very low detection limits, meeting the requirements of the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, medical device and materials chemistry sectors.

It makes it possible to verify compliance with ICH Q3D and USP 233 pharmacopeia by controlling elemental impurities that could affect product safety. Manufacturers must document the levels of arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury and other residual elements.

The analysis is based on extractions simulating use conditions, followed by quantification of metallic elements according to the guidelines of ISO 10993-18, in order to assess the potential for leaching or release.

Mineral materials such as mica, sericite, metal oxides, talc, or clay must be analyzed by ICP-MS to ensure the absence of heavy metals that could migrate into finished products.

Lipsticks, eyeshadows, mascaras, or eyeliners are analyzed to measure heavy metal content, particularly to meet regulatory expectations and international requirements such as CSAR.

ICP technology makes it possible to characterize matrices such as industrial baths, alloys, or raw materials in order to control their elemental composition, detect metallic contaminants, and verify formulation compliance.

Yes, packaging materials (plastics, polymers, inks, films) can be analyzed to verify the absence of metals that could migrate into pharmaceutical or cosmetic products.

Using a heavy metals laboratory makes it possible to identify and quantify trace metallic elements (Pb, Cd, As, Hg) in different samples. Sensitive techniques such as ICP-MS or ICP-OES make it possible to detect these metals at trace levels, identify contamination, and verify the compliance of a material or product.

FILAB, a heavy metals laboratory, mainly uses sensitive elemental analysis techniques such as ICP-MS and ICP-OES. After sample preparation, these methods make it possible to detect and quantify many metals simultaneously at trace levels in order to identify contamination and verify the compliance of a material or product.

The search for heavy metals makes it possible to identify and quantify trace elements (Pb, Cd, Hg, As, etc.) in raw materials or products. Performed by ICP-MS or ICP-OES, this analysis makes it possible to detect metallic contamination and verify the compliance of a material or product.

Chons, residues from metallurgical or recycling processes, may contain precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum, or palladium. Their analysis makes it possible to determine the exact content of these elements in order to assess the value of the batch, guide recovery operations, and optimize valorization processes.

Analytical techniques such as ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry) are used to accurately measure the concentration and distribution of these metals in a sample, which can enable rapid and targeted interventions.

To obtain a quote, you can contact the FILAB laboratory team via the contact form, by phone, or by email. Simply send us your requirements (type of material, desired analysis, any applicable standard, urgency, number of samples, etc.). A personalized technical and pricing proposal will then be sent to you within 24 to 48 hours.

The FILAB laboratory generally provides a quote for a heavy metals analysis within 24 to 48 hours after receiving your request and the necessary technical information.