Case studies

Statistical batch process monitoring

By taking a novel approaching to unpacking batch process data and applying novel multivariate analysis we helped plant engineers improve their monitoring of batch consistency and take action to avoid variations in future batches.

Gas analysis in polymers

Detailed analysis was needed for our manufacturing customer covering outgassing and various other properties, from volatiles detection to decomposition and curing processes. By using TGA-FTIR advanced characterization methodologies we delivered it.

Chemical reaction kinetics assessment

Our customer needed to find the kinetic parameters of the reaction of formic acid with hydrogen peroxide to form performic. We soon found that the quickest way to achieve it was by fitting the spectra time profiles at different temperatures.

Advanced characterization of materials

Our customer was struggling to calibrate thermal properties of their material with its original properties. We used fast-scanning calorimetry techniques to help define the advanced characterization of the material, eg, crystallization processes.

Odor identification

Identifying (and eliminating) off odors during production is a common challenge for our customers in industries like food. Using molecular profiling techniques like GCxGC-TOFMS and relating them to odor evaluation, we are giving them valuable new insight.

Analyzing electrical ‘shorts’ in electronic devices

The electronic components produced by our customer were suffering shorts, leading to a higher reject rate. By using elemental mapping - specifically, microphobe-EDXRF analysis - we identified the probable causes.

Investigating air-sensitive catalyst samples

Our customer was finding that air-sensitive catalysts were deactivating. Our unique capabilities in Molecular Imaging provided valuable insight into the problem – and a subsequent improvement in performance using SEM-EDX imaging and mapping technologies.

Efficient polymer additives screening

Additive analysis is an excellent method for gaining an in-depth understanding of materials properties - but it can be time consuming. Using ASAP-MS (and even DOSY NMR qualitative screening methods) we achieved a breakthrough in effective additive analysis.

Identifying surface property defects in materials

To help our customer better understand the distribution and organization of substances in (bio)materials, and how they caused defects, we used imaging and spectroscopic techniques including TOF-SIMS & MALDI MS, STEM-EDX and UV-VIS.

Analyzing sample defects in polymers

Our customer needed process optimization to help identify and reduce sample defects in polymer production. Through macromolecular characterization techniques including MALDI mass spectrometry we helped them achieve both.

Determining comonomers in polymers

A deep understanding of the primary, secondary and tertiary structure of our customers’ polymers was needed. We used NMR spectroscopy techniques to conduct a material analysis to provide this detailed structural information.

(Online) reaction monitoring

To help determine structural information and intermediate components needed for customer materials, we used online 13C-NMR spectroscopy to deliver a fast and accurate solution.

Detecting defects through small molecule analysis

Manufacturers increasingly need chemical structure information of small molecules - like unknown impurities, volatiles, odor and unwanted residues. We delivered analysis of specific components in complex mixtures using a multi-disciplinary approach based on LC/GC-MS-NMR.

Analyzing brittleness in medical devices

A medical device manufacturer was struggling with brittleness in their product after sterile irradiation, and needed to know if this was related to the molecular composition. By using SEC techniques with multi-detection we identified the cause.

Determining layer thickness of multilayer hydrogel coatings

The thicknesses and surface structure of multilayer coatings is essential for medical devices to function well. We employed 3D laser profilometry to determine these variables on the µ-scale level over a wide range of materials.

Assessing the degradation of biomaterials

A customer needed a better understanding of the degradation in its biomedical product (not least to meet regulatory requirements). We exposed the material to different stress factors (radiation, cell activity) and then used Mass Spectrometry to identify and quantify the degradation.

Analyzing the purity of polymeric coating constituents

Coating constituents often contain polymeric structures. To help a customer understand them better we created a new LC method. As a result, more than ten different microstructures were detected and quantified.

Characterizing ‘branching’ in drug release devices

A pharmaceutical customer needed more detailed knowledge on the relationship between randomness and ‘branching’ of polymers; and the release rates in controlled drug release devices. By using multi-detection SEC techniques, we were able to shed valuable light on the problem.

DSM Materials Science Center

Success stories in analytical science

Customer success stories