---
type: "WebPage"
title: "Single Particle SP-ICP-MS analysis of nanoparticles"
description: "The SP-ICP-MS (Single Particle Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) technique has become a benchmark for nanoparticle analysis. The FILAB laboratory, an expert in nanomaterials, offers you its skills to accurately characterise the nanoparticles present in your complex matrices. Your needs:..."
resource: "https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-analysis-nanomaterial/laboratory-single-particle-icp-ms-analysis-nanoparticles/"
tags: ["EN", "pll_6128e9b69b24f", "Thomas GAUTIER"]
timestamp: "2025-12-31T08:54:14Z"
published: "2021-08-27T13:33:42Z"
language: "en"
author: "bwa"
---

# Single Particle SP-ICP-MS analysis of nanoparticles

The **SP-ICP-MS** (Single Particle Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) technique has become a benchmark for [nanoparticle analysis](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-analysis-nanomaterial/laboratory-analysis-nanoparticle-characterization.md). The **FILAB** laboratory, an [expert in nanomaterials](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-analysis-nanomaterial.md), offers you its skills to accurately characterise the nanoparticles present in your complex matrices.

## Your needs: nanoparticle analysis using sp-icp-ms

### What is Single Particle analysis (SP-ICP-MS) ?

**SP-ICP-MS** is a variant of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). This technique enables :

- **Detection and quantification of individual nanoparticles.**
- **Determine the size and distribution of nanoparticles.**
- **Identify metallic nanoparticles at extremely low concentrations.**

The SP-ICP-MS method is particularly effective for nanomaterials used in the **pharmaceutical, cosmetics, environmental and industrial sectors.**

### Why use SP-ICP-MS to analyse nanoparticles?

**Single Particle SP-ICP-MS** is a reference method for **detecting, quantifying and characterizing** nanoparticles. Its precision and versatility make it an indispensable tool for industry and research.

- **Individual detection of nanoparticles**: SP-ICP-MS allows each nanoparticle to be observed individually, unlike other methods. This provides a precise measurement of the size and concentration of particles in a sample.
- **Analysis at very low concentrations**: thanks to its exceptional sensitivity, the SP-ICP-MS detects nanoparticles even at sub-ppb concentrations. This meets the requirements of regulatory standards and enables reliable identification of traces of nanomaterials.
- **Characterization of size and distribution**: the size of nanoparticles, essential for their properties, is accurately measured. SP-ICP-MS provides a complete size distribution, distinguishing individual particles from aggregates, from 10 to 200 nm.
- **Identification of chemical composition**: the SP-ICP-MS detects the **constituent elements** of nanoparticles, whether metals or metal oxides. It can therefore be used to identify contaminants or characterise complex nanoparticles.
- **Adaptability to a variety of matrices**:
    - **Liquids**: wastewater, industrial suspensions.
    - **Biological**: pharmaceutical formulations, serums.
    - **Dispersed solids**: cosmetics, powders.

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### Regulation of nano-objects by SP-ICP-MS

**XP CEN ISO/TS 19590** is a technical specification entitled ‘Nanotechnologies – Characterisation of nano-objects by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in single particle mode’. It provides a methodological framework for the accurate characterisation of nano-objects in aqueous suspension, detailing the essential procedures and parameters for reliable spICP-MS analysis.

The main measurements covered by this standard include:

- **Particle number concentration**: number of particles per unit volume.
- **Particle mass**: individual mass of nanoparticles.
- **Particle mass concentration**: total mass of particles per unit volume.
- **Equivalent spherical particle diameter**: size of particles assumed to be spherical.
- **Particle size distribution by number**: distribution of particle sizes according to their number.

## Our solutions: using the SP-ICP-MS analysis technique to deliver fast, reliable results

### SP-ICP-MS analytical parameters

The SP-ICP-MS provides precise analytical data thanks to :

- **Nanoparticle size detection**: particle resolution ranging from **10 to 200 nm** depending on the matrix.
- **Nanoparticle concentration**: precise quantification of the number of particles per millilitre (ppb or ppt).
- **Elemental composition**: identification of the constituent elements of metallic nanoparticles.

### SP-ICP-MS applications

The SP-ICP-MS can be applied to a wide range of samples and sectors:

- **Pharmaceutical industry**: detection of nanoparticles in medical formulations.
- **Cosmetics industry**: analysis of nanoparticles of [titanium oxide (TiO₂)](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-analysis-nanomaterial/analysis-and-characterization-of-titanium-dioxide-tio2.md) and other additives.
- **Environment:**characterization of nanoparticles in water (industrial waste, drinking water).
- **Food industry**: presence of nanoparticles in packaging or [food additives](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-analysis-nanomaterial/analysis-of-nanomaterials-in-food-according-efsa-and-anses.md).

### SP-ICP-MS analysis in the pharmaceutical industry

**SP-ICP-MS** analysis is used in the pharmaceutical industry to **detect, quantify and characterize nanoparticles** in medical formulations such as vaccines or nanotechnology treatments. It is used to monitor particle**size, distribution and concentration**. SP-ICP-MS is also used to identify **metallic contaminants** introduced during production or packaging, and to assess the **biodistribution** and **nanotoxicity** of particles in preclinical studies, ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory standards.

### SP-ICP-MS analysis in the cosmetics industry

**SP-ICP-MS** analysis is used in the cosmetics industry to **detect, quantify and characterize nanoparticles** present in products such as sunscreens, skincare products and make-up containing n**anoparticles of titanium oxide (TiO₂**) or **zinc oxide**. It makes it possible to control the **size, distribution** and**concentration** of particles to guarantee their safety, efficacy and compliance with **European regulations** on nanomaterials, while meeting **consumer safety** requirements.

### SP-ICP-MS analysis in the food industry

In the food industry, **SP-ICP-MS** analysis is used to **detect, quantify and characterize** nanoparticles present in **food additives** (such as titanium dioxide nanoparticles – TiO₂), **packaging** or **contact materials**. It can be used to check their size, concentration and **distribution**, guaranteeing **food safety** and compliance with regulatory standards. SP-ICP-MS also plays a key role in assessing the potential risks associated with nanoparticle **ingestion**, helping to protect **consumer health** while meeting traceability and transparency requirements.

### Why choose FILAB for your SP-ICP-MS analysis?

- **An [ISO 17025](https://filab.fr/en/about-us/accreditations-en/laboratory-analysis-iso-17025.md) accredited laboratory** for reliable, recognised results.
- **Multidisciplinary expertise** in nanomaterials and analytical chemistry.
- **Customised support** to meet your specific needs (R&D, quality, compliance).
- **State-of-the-art equipment** for rapid, ultra-sensitive detection.

## FAQ

 When should SP-ICP-MS be used?
The SP-ICP-MS is ideal for :

- **Detection and characterization** of nanoparticles suspended in liquids.
- Analysis of nanomaterials in the **environmental, pharmaceutical**, cosmetics and industrial sectors.
- Quantifying nanoparticles at extremely **low** concentrations.

 Why use SP-ICP-MS in the pharmaceutical industry?
The **SP-ICP-MS** is particularly well suited to the pharmaceutical industry for detecting and characterising metallic nanoparticles present in medical formulations. It can be used to check their **size, concentration and distribution**, in order to guarantee the safety and **quality of medicines** in compliance with regulatory standards.

 How does SP-ICP-MS meet the needs of the cosmetics industry?
In the cosmetics sector, SP-ICP-MS can be used to analyse nanoparticles such as **titanium oxide (TiO₂)** or **zinc oxide** used in sun creams and skincare products. This technique guarantees **accurate quantification** of nanoparticles and helps to verify their compliance with **European regulations** on nanomaterials.

 What is the benefit of SP-ICP-MS for the environmental industry?
SP-ICP-MS plays a key role in the detection of nanoparticles in **wastewater, drinking water** and other environmental matrices. It can be used to monitor the **dispersion and persistence** of nanomaterials in the environment, thereby contributing to **ecological impact** studies and nanoparticle **risk management**.