Characterization and analysis of nanoparticles in the laboratory
ISO 17025 accredited, the FILAB laboratory carries out the characterization of nanoparticles and nanomaterials: size, shape, particle size distribution, concentration, and chemical composition. Thanks to state-of-the-art analytical techniques (sp-ICP-MS, SEM-EDX, TEM, DLS), FILAB meets the requirements of quality control, R&D, and regulatory compliance (REACH, cosmetics, pharmacopoeia, medical devices)
Your needs: analyze the properties and effects of nanoparticles in your application areas
Nanoparticle analysis in the laboratory
The analysis of nanoparticles makes it possible to understand their physical and chemical properties and their effects. Our laboratory specializing in nanomaterial analysis and nanoparticle analysis provides you with cutting-edge techniques to:
- Identify and quantify nanoparticles,
- Study their morphology, size, and distribution,
- Understand their interactions in your application environment.
The different types of nanoparticles
Made of metals or metal oxides, they are stable and versatile. Used in sunscreens, pollution control and medical devices. Examples: silver, gold, titanium dioxide (TiO₂).
Carbon-based, they are biocompatible and biodegradable. They are used for drug delivery, food preservation and biotechnology. Examples: lipid nanoparticles, chitin.
Combining organic and inorganic materials, they combine versatility and performance for medical imaging, smart materials and pollutant detection.
Why identify and quantify nanoparticles?
Identifying and quantifying nanoparticles is essential to control their properties, ensure their safety, and optimize their effects in a material or sample.
This type of analysis addresses several challenges:
Health and safety : ensure that the nanoparticles used do not pose any risk to human health, particularly in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics sectors
Performance optimization : adapt the properties of nanoparticles to improve product efficiency, for example by adjusting particle size to influence bioavailability in medicines
Technological innovation : develop new materials and applications by understanding and manipulating the unique properties of nanoparticles
Regulatory compliance : comply with the standards in force regarding the use of nanoparticles, such as those established by the European Pharmacopoeia
Quality control : detect and identify unwanted particles or contamination in products to ensure their purity and quality
Our solutions: supporting you in the characterization and analysis of nanoparticles
With an analytical facility of 5,200 m² and a team dedicated to particle analysis, the laboratory offers support services for the study and development of your nanoparticle-based products.
Nanoparticle analysis includes:
- Morphological characterization : measuring particle size, shape and distribution using techniques such as electron microscopy (SEM).
- Chemical analysis : identifying elemental and molecular composition to determine their properties.
- Surface study : assessing charge and functionalization to anticipate interactions with other substances.
- Particle size analysis : measuring the distribution of particle sizes in a sample.
- Single particle tracking analysiss : makes it possible to observe and quantify particles in motion in a given medium. This analysis helps understand their dispersion, stability and interactions.
Our nanoparticle characterization techniques
ICP-AES and ICP-MS : trace analysis and chemical composition analysis on a nanomaterial-based product
DRX : structural analysis
BET : specific surface area measurement
SP-ICP-MS : nanoparticle detection
Raman Microscopy : detection and characterization of nanoparticles
SEM-FEG-EDX : determining the size and shape of nanoparticles
Laser Particle Size Analysis : counting and particle size distribution
Helium pycnometry: density measurement
DLS: measurement of nano-emulsions and stability study of a suspension by Zeta Potential titration
Our accreditations for nanoparticle characterization
FILAB is the first COFRAC ISO 17025-accredited laboratory for the characterization of nanomaterials, specifically the distribution of size and shape of nanoparticles by SEM-EDX, and the determination of nanoparticle size by SP-ICPMS. This accreditation guarantees reliable analyses that comply with regulatory requirements. This quality commitment enables us to support our industrial clients under optimal conditions.
To support you in the best possible conditions, the FILAB laboratory is approved for the Research Tax Credit (CIR). FILAB is also a member of the AFNOR/X457 “Nanotechnologies” committee
*Our scope of accreditation includes:
- The distribution of size and shape of nanoparticles by SEM-EDX
- The determination of the size of nanoparticles by SP-ICPMS
(More information at www.cofrac.fr – accreditation no. 1-1793)
Regulation / Standard | Application Sector | Analysis / Service Performed |
Cosmetic Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 & (EU) 2024/858 | Cosmetics (TiO₂, ZnO, silica…) | Detection and characterization of nanoparticles, compliance with bans and restrictions (toothpastes, skincare) |
REACH & CLP Regulation | Chemicals, Plastics, Materials | Measurement of the threshold number of nanoparticles and classification according to the European definition |
ISO 10993-22 Standard | Medical Devices | Physical and chemical characterization and assessment of released or embedded nanoparticles |
INCO Regulation No. 1169/2011 / EFSA / ANSES | Agri-food | Identification, counting and mandatory labeling of food nanoparticles |
OECD Guidelines 125 & OECD 318 | R&D, Ecotoxicology | Measurement of size, shape and study of nanoparticle dispersion stability |
R-Nano Declaration (Order of 17/02/2012) | French declarants | Nanoparticle particle size distribution data required for the national register |
SP-ICP-MS: Detection and quantification of metal nanoparticles down to ultra-trace levels (ppb to ppt).
FE-SEM and TEM: High-resolution imaging and morphological observation down to the sub-nanometric scale (< 1 nm).
DLS (Dynamic Light Scattering): Measurement of size distribution over a range from 0.3 nm to 10 µm.
Matrix type | Analytical technique | Characterized property |
Dry powders |
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Liquids & suspensions |
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Complex matrices |
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Use of nanoparticles in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂) and zinc oxide are used in sunscreens to provide effective UV protection while remaining invisible on the skin. Their small size ensures even application and an optimal aesthetic finish.
In the pharmaceutical sector, lipid nanoparticles make it possible to deliver active ingredients to target cells. For example, in cancer treatments, they improve bioavailability and reduce side effects on healthy tissues.
The silver nanoparticles, used for their antibacterial properties, are incorporated into implants and medical devices. They reduce the risk of post-operative infection while maintaining biocompatibility.
The colloidal gold nanoparticles are incorporated into anti-aging creams for their antioxidant and regenerating effects. They penetrate the skin’s superficial layers, stimulating collagen production for targeted action.
Use of nanoparticles in metallurgy
In metallurgy, the addition of alumina nanoparticles (Al₂O₃) to alloys increases their mechanical and thermal strength. This improves the performance of metal parts for industrial applications such as aerospace or automotive.
In addition, integrated carbon nanotubes in composite materials significantly improve their mechanical strength and lightness. For example, in aerospace, these nanoparticles are used to reinforce polymer fiber structures, making aircraft stronger while reducing their weight.
Every industrial sector, faced with complex samples such as powders, suspensions, or finished materials, requires rigorous analysis of the nanoparticles that make them up.
our other services
Development and validation of analytical methods specific to nanoparticles
Bibliographic and regulatory study on nanoparticles
Nanomaterials training for your teams
The physicochemical properties of nanoparticles
Nanoparticles are integrated into the formulation of products and materials to optimize their functional properties and meet industrial technical requirements. Thanks to their nanometric size and high specific surface area, they make it possible to improve mechanical strength, durability, and even the physico-chemical performance of materials. Their use also promotes better control of interactions at the molecular scale, offering advanced solutions in terms of reactivity, stability, or targeting in complex formulations.
FAQ
For reliable and comprehensive analysis, the laboratory offers you state-of-the-art analytical techniques such as:
- ICP-AES and ICP-MS: trace analysis on a product containing nanomaterials
- SEM-FEG-EDX: identification of the size and shape of nanoparticles
- Laser particle size analysis: counting and particle size distribution
- XRD: structural analysis
- DLS: measurement of nano-emulsions and stability study of a suspension by zeta potential titration
- BET: specific surface area measurement
- SP-ICP-MS: nanoparticle detection
A nanomaterial is defined by European Cosmetic Regulation EC 1223/2009as an "insoluble or biopersistent material, intentionally manufactured and characterized by one or more external dimensions, or an internal structure, on a scale of 1 to 100 nanometers." (according to ISO 80004).
European Cosmetic Regulation EC 1223/2009 therefore states that:
– Nanomaterials must be subject to specific labeling (the [nano] mention in the ingredient list, preceded by the INCI ingredient name).
– Cosmetic products containing nanomaterials must be notified to the Commission via the European CPNP portal (Articles 13 & 16) 6 months before being placed on the market.
At the national level, the R-Nano declaration requires the use of nanomaterials to be traced. Indeed, whether voluntary or involuntary, the use of nanomaterials must be declared and tracked through advanced physicochemical characterization. Regarding involuntary uses of nanoparticles, the main suspicions concern raw materials such as metal oxides and mineral materials (TiO2, ZnO, SiO2, Fe2O3, CaCO3...).
The characterization of inorganic nanoparticles consists in analyzing properties such as size, shape, chemical composition, and distribution. These nanoparticles, such as those based on metals or oxides, are essential in sectors such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industry to ensure performance and compliance.
Nanoparticle characterization aims to identify their morphological properties (size, shape), chemical properties (composition), and their distribution within a sample. These analysis ensure product quality, safety, and optimization across various industrial sectors.
FILAB, a laboratory specialized in chemical analysis and materials characterization, offers in-depth nanoparticle analysis, including electron microscopy, particle size analysis, chemical analysis, and surface analysis. These studies help control quality, optimize product performance, and meet regulatory requirements.
Nanoparticle monitoring analysis is used to assess their dynamic behavior, such as dispersion and agglomeration. This helps control their use in sectors such as medicine, the environment, or advanced materials to ensure safety and efficiency.
We offer advanced characterization analysis to determine the size, shape, and particle size distribution of your nanoparticles, enabling you to optimize your formulations and validate compliance with product specifications.
We offer aging, stability, and process impact studies (heat, pressure, humidity, shear) to verify that your nanomaterials retain their critical properties throughout your production cycle.
Poor control of nanoparticles can lead to product defects, regulatory non-compliance, health risks for operators, and environmental issues. Hence the importance of rigorous, periodic analysis.
