Nanomaterial and nanoparticle characterization
FILAB is an independent analytical laboratory specializing in nanomaterial testing and nanoparticle characterization. Equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation, we support industrial clients in analyzing materials at the nanoscale—from raw substances to advanced composite structures. Our nanomaterial testing services are ISO 17025-accredited and performed by experts in surface chemistry, physical-chemical analysis, and regulatory compliance. Whether for R&D, quality control, or regulatory approval, FILAB delivers fast, precise, and customized analysis of your nanomaterials.
Your needs : to classify your nanomaterial-based substances and optimize their effects on your finished products
What is nanomaterial testing?
Nanomaterial testing refers to the process of analyzing materials whose structures include particles or domains measuring less than 100 nanometers. At this scale, materials exhibit unique mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties. Testing nanomaterials involves identifying the size, shape, dispersion, surface area, and chemical composition of the nanoparticles. It also includes assessing their behavior in formulations, toxicity potential, and compliance with international regulations such as REACH, CLP, or the EU nanomaterial definition.
On the nanoscopic scale new physicochemical properties can appear in certain materials. Further analysis and study of these phenomena is essential for understanding the effects of nanomaterials in the context in which they are used.
As a specialist in cosmetics, in the production of medical devices, in electronics, in textiles, in the aerospace industry, in pharmaceuticals, in food production or even in the production of fine chemicals, you are looking to classify your substances (nano or otherwise), to improve or substitute your products using nanomaterials and nanotechnology (nanoprobes, nanovectors, nanoparticles, nanocomposites, nanocatalysis…).
To achieve this, support from a laboratory specialized in nanomaterial analysis having precise and metrologically controlled equipment will allow you to examine these types of particles whether it be in raw materials or in your finished products.
Our solution : to assist you throughout the production process or R&D projects involving nanomaterials or nanoparticles
You wish to know if your product contains nanomaterials and if it must therefore be classed as such following the standards relating to your field ?
With an analytical fleet spread over 2100m2, in part dedicated to the analysis of nanomaterials, the laboratory offers its services in nanometric classification and in the development of your nanomaterial-based products.
FILAB has analytical techniques at its disposal relating to the following nanomaterials :
ICP-AES and ICP-MS : analysis of trace elements and of chemical composition on a nanomaterial-based product
XRD : structural analysis
BET : measurement of the specific surface area
SP-ICP-MS : detection of nanoparticles
TEM : for atomic-scale imaging
Zeta potential measurement for stability studies
SEM-FEG-EDX : determination of the size and shape of nanoparticles
Laser granulometry : count of the number of particles and their granulometric distribution.
Helium pycnometry : density measurement
DLS : measurement of nano-emulsion and a study of the stability of a suspension by zeta potential titration.
TGA/DSC : for thermal behavior of nanoformulated materials
Our experts interpret the results in the context of your application: from cosmetics and pharmaceuticals to energy storage or food packaging.
The FILAB laboratory will also assist you in providing the following services related to nanomaterials :
Development and validation of new analytical techniques specific to nanomaterials
Reviewing literature and researching standards surrounding nanomaterials
Consultation of standards around nanomaterials (2011 CE recommendations, the 1223/2009 CE cosmetic standard, the 1169/2011 INCO standard, R-Nano(2012-232, 02/2012) …)
Testing interactions between containers and their contents
Training your teams (new techniques and standards regarding nanomaterials)
Use cases
Cosmetics: titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, silica nanoforms
Pharmaceuticals: API encapsulation, inhalable formulations
Plastics & Composites: nanofillers, nanoclays, carbon nanotubes
Chemical manufacturing: quality control of nanodispersions
R&D and Innovation: proof of concept for new nano-enhanced materials
In order to assist you in the best conditions the FILAB laboratory is CIR (Crédit Impot Recherche) approved, FILAB is also a member of the AFNOR/X457 “Nanotechnologies” commission and regularly partakes in collaboration projects on nanomaterials.
Using our three levels of services – analysis, expertise and R&D assistance – FILAB assists companies from various sectors and of various sizes in overcoming their industrial challenges by providing them with all the knowledge and experience of its team.
Cosmetic regulation EC n°1223-2009 strictly regulates the use of nanomaterials in order to guarantee consumer safety. ⚠️ New bans and restrictions will come into force on 1 February 2025, in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2024/858, published on 15 March 2024. This text amends Annexes II and III of EC Regulation 1223/2009 in response to concerns about the safety of 13 nanomaterials. As a result, several substances in nano form will be banned or restricted, particularly in toothpastes and mouthwashes. Manufacturers need to ensure that their products comply with these new requirements now, to avoid any risk of withdrawal from the market.
To find out more, please contact us about the characterisation of nanomaterials in your cosmetic products > contact@filab.fr
FAQ
It is the analysis of materials that contain particles under 100 nm to understand their structure, composition, and behavior.
Because nanoparticles behave differently than bulk materials and may pose specific health, environmental, or performance-related risks.
REACH, CLP, and specific EU recommendations on nanomaterial labeling and safety testing.
By measuring particle size distribution (e.g., via DLS), surface area (BET), and morphology (SEM/TEM).
Yes. We assist in generating compliant data for REACH registration, SDS, or product approval.
