--- type: "WebPage" title: "ICP analysis (ICP-MS and ICP-AES/ICP-OES) in a laboratory" description: "FILAB is an ISO 17025-accredited laboratory providing comprehensive ICP analysis services, including ICP-MS, ICP-MS/MS, and ICP-AES (ICP-OES). Specializing in precise elemental determination, trace metal quantification (down to ppt/ppb levels), and regulatory compliance testing (ICH Q3D, USP <233>), FILAB helps industrials..." resource: "https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-icp-icp-ms-icp-aes/" tags: ["EN", "pll_67c97ed287de9", "Chemical analysis", "Our advanced techniques", "Thomas ROUSSEAU"] timestamp: "2026-08-13T06:54:23Z" published: "2021-08-26T06:21:14Z" language: "en" author: "bwa" --- # ICP analysis (ICP-MS and ICP-AES/ICP-OES) in a laboratory FILAB is an [ISO 17025-accredited laboratory](https://tools.cofrac.fr/fr/organismes/fiche.php?entite_id=12073583) providing comprehensive ICP analysis services, including ICP-MS, ICP-MS/MS, and ICP-AES (ICP-OES). Specializing in precise elemental determination, trace metal quantification (down to ppt/ppb levels), and regulatory compliance testing (ICH Q3D, USP <233>), FILAB helps industrials analyze chemical composition across pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, metallurgy, and advanced materials. ## ICP analysis: what are we talking about? ICP, short for “[Inductively Coupled Plasma](https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spectrom%C3%A9trie_de_masse_%C3%A0_plasma_%C3%A0_couplage_inductif)”, is an inductively coupled plasma analytical technique used to measure the content of an inorganic element present in a sample. This technique can be applied to any type of elemental chemical element. ## Around fifteen ICP systems at the service of your industries ## At FILAB, we have two types of analyzers in our laboratory: **[ICP-AES or ICP-OES](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-icp-icp-ms-icp-aes/icp-aes-analysis-laboratory.md) :**ICP systems coupled with Atomic Emission Spectrometers measure the wavelengths emitted by ions. **Sensitivity:** high for high and medium concentrations. **Applications:** quantitative analysis of elements and trace elements, and industrial quality control. ![ICP AES](https://filab.fr/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ICP-AES-1.jpg) **[ICP-MS or ICP-MS/MS](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/icp-ms-analysis-laboratory.md) :**ICP systems coupled with Mass Spectrometers for the analysis of elements according to their charge and mass. **Sensitivity:** very high, suitable for trace and ultra-trace analysis. **Applications:** trace and ultra-trace analysis, for example in cosmetics or pharmaceuticals. ![ICP -MS](https://filab.fr/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ICP-MS.jpg) ## Detection limits and required sample volumes | **Technique** | **Limit of Detection (LOD)** | **Concentration Range** | **Required Sample Size** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | **ICP-AES / ICP-OES** | 1 to 10 ppb (µg/L) | Major to Trace elements | 2 to 5 g (solid) / 20 to 50 mL (liquid) | | **ICP-MS** | 0.1 to 1 ppt (ng/L) | Trace to Ultra-trace elements | 1 to 2 g (solid) / 10 to 20 mL (liquid) | | **ICP-MS/MS** | < 0.1 ppt (complex matrices) | Ultra-trace elements (high interference) | 1 g (solid) / 10 mL (liquid) | To confirm this, we invite you to contact our engineers directly by phone or contact form. ![laboratoire-de-chimie-1-scaled](https://filab.fr/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/laboratoire-de-chimie-1-scaled-1-e1758092506394.jpg) ## Did you know? The combination of ICP-AES and ICP-MS makes it possible to determine a wide range of inorganic elements and elemental impurities in a single run, with extreme reliability and precision (from ppt to ppb depending on the matrices). [ICP MS-MS](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/icp-ms-ms-analysis-laboratory.md) is a technique identical to ICP-MS that enables the suppression of strong interferences, even in the most difficult matrices, thanks to new intermediate gases. This technique also provides a lower detection limit than a conventional ICP. It even makes it possible to quantify certain alkali metals at very low quantification limits. FILAB laboratory is the first independent private French laboratory to be equipped with an ICP-MS/MS. ## Our services Analysis ### Our ICP analysis Heavy metal assay (as, pb, cd, hg…) The examination of [heavy metals](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/laboratory-analysis-heavy-metal.md) is a laboratory method used to identify and quantify the metals contained in a sample. [Learn more](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/laboratory-analysis-heavy-metal.md) Analysis of elemental impurities according to USP 233 (ICH Q3D context) The [ICH Q3D](https://filab.fr/nos-prestations/analyse/laboratoire-analysis-ich-q3d/) guideline provides for an initial risk assessment phase, based on document analysis or laboratory analytical screening, including qualitative and semi-quantitative screening and [impurity assay](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/analysis-ich-q3d-context/elemental-impurity-analysis-according-ich-q3d-laboratory.md) by ICP-AES and ICP-MS. [Learn more](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/analysis-ich-q3d-context.md) Study of the chemical composition of a mixture Measuring the [chemical composition](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-deformulation-analysis-reverse-engineering.md) of a sample involves the precise analysis of its constituents to determine its exact composition by ICP. [Learn more](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/chemical-analysis-laboratory.md) Compliance testing of a formula or material with current regulations Checking whether a formulation or material complies ensures that it meets the applicable standards and regulations. To test your sample, ICP-MS and ICP-AES can meet your needs. Analysis of low-abundance metals: aluminum, thallium, indium.. Analysis of base metals evaluates and quantifies abundant but economically less valuable metals, using techniques such as ICP-MS, ICP-OES or ICP-AES to ensure the quality and compliance of [materials](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/laboratory-material-testing.md). Identification of catalyst residues The identification of [catalyst](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/chemical-analysis-laboratory/catalyst-analysis-laboratory.md) residues by ICP makes it possible to detect and quantify traces of catalytic substances in a sample. Characterization of an unknown deposit The [characterization of an unknown deposit](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-analysis-deposit-contamination/identification-of-unknown-deposit-in-laboratory.md): a deposit or contamination may be metallic, mineral or organic in nature. [Learn more](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-analysis-deposit-contamination.md) Qualification of a new mineral material The approval of a new mineral material consists in officially validating its characteristics and use in accordance with the standards and regulations in force. Nanoparticle analysis by single particle SP-ICP-MS The [Single Particle SP-ICP-MS nanoparticle analysis](https://filab.fr/nos-prestations/expertise/laboratoire-analyse-nanomateriaux/laboratoire-analysis-sp-single-particle-icp-ms/) make it possible to characterize and quantify nanoparticles individually in a sample, offering unprecedented precision regarding their size and concentration. [Learn more](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-analysis-nanomaterial/laboratory-single-particle-icp-ms-analysis-nanoparticles.md) FILAB carries out inorganic and mineral analysis by ICP-MS or ICP-AES on all types of matrices, and can also: Expertise ### Our ICP expertise Analytical method development Custom [analytical method development](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/analytical-development.md) carried out by providing the human and technical resources suited to your needs. [Learn more](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/analytical-development.md) Transfer of methods to your laboratories We facilitate the [transfer of analytical methods](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/life-cycle-of-an-analytical-method-in-the-laboratory/analytical-transfer-laboratory/method-transfer-in-laboratory.md) to your laboratories, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition for your team. [Learn more](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/analytical-transfer-laboratory.md) Protocol validation according to current guidelines We ensure protocol validation according to current guidelines, guaranteeing compliance with the standards and regulations in force. [Learn more](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-analytical-method-validation.md) Training for your teams (on-site or remotely) We offer [tailor-made training](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/rd/laboratory-analytical-chemistry-training.md), adapted to our clients' specific needs, to master the [ICP](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/rd/laboratory-analytical-chemistry-training/icp-training-for-laboratories.md) analytical technique. [Learn more](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/rd/laboratory-analytical-chemistry-training/icp-training-for-laboratories.md) ### Sample analysis by ICP involves several steps.   1. The solid sample must first be dissolved using a strong acid, a mixture of strong acids, or microwaves. This is known as mineralization. 2. The preparation is then introduced by argon plasma vaporization, 3. and then exposed to very high temperatures. These thermal excitations cause ionization and element separation phenomena, making it possible to characterize and detect each element according to the analyzers used. ## FILAB ICP analysis laboratory: expertise and precision for your elemental assays Are you looking for an **ICP analysis laboratory** capable of carrying out reliable and precise [elemental assays](https://filab.fr/nos-prestations/analyse/analysis-chimiques/laboratoire-analysis-elementaires/) on complex matrices? At FILAB laboratory, we provide industrial clients with high-performance ICP-MS and ICP-AES (ICP-OES) equipment for the identification and quantification of major, minor, and trace elements. ## Which ICP technique should you choose for your matrix? - **Metal alloys, raw polymers, and high concentrations**: opt for ICP-AES (ICP-OES) for its wide dynamic range. - **Pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and impurity testing:** opt for ICP-MS for its high sensitivity to trace elements. - **High-salinity water, organic solvents, or matrices with spectral interferences:** opt for ICP-MS/MS to resolve measurement ambiguities ## Standards and regulations covered by our analyses - **Pharmaceutical & healthcare sector**: USP <232> & USP <233>, ICH Q3D (Elemental Impurities), European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur. 2.4.20), ISO 10993-18 (Biocompatibility). - **Metallurgy & materials sector**:  [ASTM E1479](https://filab.fr/nos-prestations/analyse/laboratoire-analyses-metallurgiques/analyse-astm-e1409.md), [ASTM E2371](https://filab.fr/nos-prestations/analyse/laboratoire-analyses-metallurgiques/laboratoire-analyse-norme-astm-e2371.md), [ASTM E2594](https://filab.fr/nos-prestations/analyse/laboratoire-analyses-metallurgiques/laboratoie-analyses-nickel-astm-e2594.md), [ASTM A380…](https://filab.fr/nos-prestations/analyse/laboratoire-analyses-metallurgiques/analyse-norme-astm-a380.md) ## How to send samples for icp testing ? - **Standard turnaround time**: 5 to 10 business days (express analysis options within 24h to 48h available upon request). - [What is the process for sending samples to FILAB from abroad?](https://filab.fr/en/process-sending-samples-abroad.md) Expertise, Evidence and traceabilityUpdate : june 2026 ## Why trust FILAB laboratory for your ICP-MS, ICP-MS/MS, and ICP-AES (ICP-OES) analyses? Entrusting your ICP-MS, ICP-MS/MS and ICP-AES (ICP-OES) analysis to FILAB means relying on technical expertise, a documented quality framework, and expert interpretation of results to support industrial, quality, and regulatory decisions. ### Recognized accreditations - ** ISO 17025 - ** Nadcap MTL - ** SAFRAN - ** FRAMATOME - ** EDF - ** DASSAULT AVIATION - ** Aubert & Duval - ** Airbus Defence & Space - ** Liebherr - ** FDA registered [Our accréditations](https://filab.fr/en/about-us/accreditations-en.md) ### An expert at your service - [** Clément Boenard](https://www.linkedin.com/in/cl%C3%A9ment-boenard-94b371b5/) Head of Expertise Clément Boenard supports projects involving ICP-MS, ICP-MS/MS, and ICP-AES (ICP-OES) analysis. [Our team](https://filab.fr/en/about-us.md) [Our team](https://filab.fr/en/about-us.md) ### Recognized accreditations - ** ISO 17025 - ** Nadcap MTL - ** SAFRAN - ** FRAMATOME - ** EDF - ** DASSAULT AVIATION - ** Aubert & Duval - ** Airbus Defence & Space - ** Liebherr - ** FDA registered ### An expert at your side - [** Clément Boenard](https://www.linkedin.com/in/cl%C3%A9ment-boenard-94b371b5/) Expertise Manager Clément Boenard supports analysis projects using ICP-MS, ICP-MS/MS and ICP-AES (ICP-OES). [Our team](https://filab.fr/en/about-us.md) **Our 4-step approach:** 1. **Discussion** of your analytical needs and constraints. 2. **Proposal** of a tailored analytical protocol and quotation. 3. **Analysis** and expert review of the results. 4. **Delivery** of a detailed, actionable, and traceable report. [Our technical capabilities](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources.md) Transparency & Contactupdate: june 2026 ## Where to find us and how to contact us FILAB is an independent, accredited laboratory based in France. All the contact details below allow you to verify our identity and submit your request.     ![](https://filab.fr/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/filab-exterieur.gif) ### FILAB Laboratory Ecoparc Dijon Bourgogne 80 rue Jean-Louis Auguste Petitjean 21850 Saint-Apollinaire, France Tél. [+33 (0)3 80 52 32 05](tel:+33380523205) ### Resources - [Case Study | Renovation of an Abbey – 11th century – puddled iron](https://filab.fr/blog/2024/07/renovation-abbaye-11eme-siecle-fer-puddle-laboratoire-materiaux.md) Application case / Control of elemental impurities in pharmaceuticals **Issue:**A company in the pharmaceutical sector must demonstrate the compliance of its active ingredient or finished product with ICH Q3D requirements regarding elemental impurities. Metal traces from raw materials, catalysts or production equipment must be quantified at very low thresholds. **Analytical solution:**The FILAB laboratory carries out ICP analysis enabling multi-element trace-level quantification (As, Cd, Pb, Hg, Ni, Pd, Pt…). The methods are developed and validated according to USP <233>. The results make it possible to assess compliance with PDE (Permitted Daily Exposure) limits and secure regulatory submissions. Application case / Composition control of an alloy for the metallurgical industry **Issue:**A manufacturer of metal alloys wants to verify the chemical compliance of a material batch before production. A shift in composition could affect the mechanical properties and performance of the final product. **Analytical solution:**An ICP analysis (ICP-OES) is carried out to determine the content of major and minor elements (Al, Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn…). The results are compared with normative or internal specifications. This approach makes it possible to validate batch compliance, identify any impurities and avoid non-conformities downstream in the process. ## Our FAQ What are icps coupled with atomic emission spectrometers used for? ICP coupled with atomic emission spectrometers (ICP-AES) is an analytical tool that can be used for the elemental analysis of samples. The combination of ICP and AES provides a highly sensitive and accurate method for analyzing the concentrations of many different elements present in a sample. This technique is widely used in the metallurgy, pharmaceutical, and food industries... ICP-AES has been widely adopted by laboratories around the world because of its accuracy and cost-effectiveness. Using this method involves introducing a sample into an ICP source, which excites the atoms in the sample with an electric arc or laser beam to produce characteristic emission lines based on the atomic structure of each atom present. These emission lines are measured and analyzed to determine the concentration of each element in the sample. The ICP-AES method is capable of detecting most elements at concentrations as low as parts per million. In addition to its accuracy and cost-effectiveness, one of the advantages of the ICP-AES method is that it can be used on various types of samples - solid samples, liquid samples, or even gases can be analyzed. It also requires minimal sample preparation and very little instrument maintenance. For these reasons, ICP-AES has become one of the most popular techniques for elemental analysis in many industries. What is inductively coupled plasma spectrometry? Inductively coupled plasma spectrometry (ICP) is a technique used to measure the concentration of elements in samples. It involves introducing a sample into an ICP source, which excites the atoms in the sample with an electric arc or laser beam and produces characteristic emission lines based on the atomic structure of each element present. These emission lines can then be measured and analyzed to determine the concentration of each element in the sample. ICP is an accurate and cost-effective method for elemental analysis and is widely used by laboratories around the world. What are the applications of ICP spectroscopy? ICP spectroscopy has many applications across various sectors and fields. It can be used to analyze soil, wastewater, food, and other environmental samples. It is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry to measure trace elements in medicines, as well as for quality assurance purposes. ICP spectroscopy can also be used in forensic science and archaeology to analyze samples from crime scenes or ancient artifacts. In addition, it is a valuable tool for precious metal analysis, helping companies determine the exact composition of gold, silver, and platinum alloys. In general, ICP spectroscopy can be used for many different analytical applications requiring elemental analysis. Comparative table of ICP analytical techniques Here is a comparative table of the four analytical methods offered by the FILAB laboratory: ICP-MS, ICP-MS/MS, ICP-AES, and ICP-OES. | **Technical method** | **Principle** | **Sensitivity** | **Interference management** | **Typical applications** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ICP-MS | Mass spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma | Very high | Limited by spectral interferences | Trace and ultra-trace analysis, environmental, pharmaceutical. | | ICP-MS/MS | Tandem mass spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma | Extremely high | Excellent thanks to the MS/MS stage | Complex matrices, environmental, bioanalysis, pharmaceutical. | | ICP-AES | Atomic emission spectroscopy with inductively coupled plasma | High | Prone to spectral interferences, | Quantitative analysis of elements, quality control, environmental. Metals, alloys, aqueous solutions | | ICP-OES | Optical emission spectroscopy with inductively coupled plasma | High | Prone to spectral interferences, | Analysis of major and trace elements, metallurgy, environmental. Glass, ceramics, metals | Why use an ICP analysis laboratory? An ICP analysis laboratory makes it possible to accurately determine the elemental composition of a material or solution, identify metallic traces at very low concentrations, and ensure product or process compliance. How do i get a quote for an ICP analysis? To get a quote, simply complete the web form so that our team can get back to you. How long does it take to get a quote for an ICP analysis? A quote for an ICP analysis is sent within 24 to 48 hours. What is an ICP-O chemical composition test and how is it performed in an analysis laboratory? An **ICP-O chemical composition test** (commonly referring to ICP-OES or Optical Emission Spectrometry) is a high-precision technique used to identify and quantify the elemental breakdown of a sample. In an accredited **ICP-O composition laboratory**, the material is mineralized and introduced into an argon plasma. This ICP-O chemical composition analysis allows engineers and chemists to measure both major constituents and trace element impurities in metals, polymers, raw materials, or pharmaceutical products. Why use an accredited ICP-O composition testing laboratory for your materials? Partnering with a specialized **ICP-O composition testing laboratory** guarantees that your **ICP-O chemical composition tests** deliver compliant, highly accurate, and reproducible data. Combining ICP-O (ICP-OES) with ICP-MS systems, the laboratory carries out routine quality control, batch clearance, and regulatory compliance testing according to international standards such as ISO 17025, USP <233>, and ICH Q3D