Biocide dosage

Biocidal product analysis allows for the quantification of active substances used to control harmful organisms in a wide variety of products: disinfectants, treated materials, paints, cosmetics, textiles, and technical devices. Whether verifying content, monitoring residues, or demonstrating regulatory compliance, this analysis is a crucial element in ensuring the quality and safety of biocidal products.

Why measure biocide concentrations?
Precisely knowing the concentration of the active substance in a biocidal product addresses three major issues. First, regulatory compliance: Regulation (EU) No 528/2012 on biocidal products strictly governs the placing of active substances on the market and often requires justification of their content. Second, efficacy: an insufficient concentration compromises the disinfectant or preservative power of the product, while an overdose increases toxicological and environmental risks. Finally, residue control: the presence of biocides on surfaces, in finished products, or in the environment (water, effluents) must be monitored, particularly for surfaces in contact with food. Therefore, measuring biocide concentrations ensures product performance, compliance, and user health.

What biocides do we analyze?
Our network covers the main families of biocides used in industry. Among the most common are quaternary ammonium compounds (see our dedicated article on quaternary ammonium compounds), including benzalkonium chloride (BAC) and didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC), isothiazolinones (MIT, CMIT, BIT), triclosan, PHMB, as well as chlorine- or metal-based compounds. Each substance requires a method adapted to its chemical nature.

Which analytical methods are used?
Techniques vary depending on the active substance and the matrix. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) are suitable for non-volatile and heat-sensitive molecules such as quaternary ammonium compounds. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is preferred for volatile compounds, while titration allows for simple and economical control of concentrated solutions. This analysis is applicable to numerous matrices: solutions, gels, polymers, textiles, or surfaces. Beyond chemical analysis, the effectiveness of a disinfectant can be evaluated according to specific standards such as EN 14476(virucidal activity).

For which sectors?
This analysis primarily concerns the environmental, but extends to industrial hygiene, the agri-food industry (residues on surfaces and materials in contact), cosmetics (preservatives) and animal health (livestock disinfectants).

Why choose YesWeLab?
At YesWeLab, we collaborate with a rigorously selected network of laboratories, most of which are certified and/or accredited (ISO 17025, COFRAC). These laboratories are chosen based on your specific needs, the matrices to be analyzed, and the required analytical techniques or methods. If you have any particular requirements, please do not hesitate to specify them in your request: our scientific team will do everything possible to respond accurately and promptly. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, distributors, and engineering firms have entrusted us with the management of their analyses, sending us their samples through our digital platform. To learn more or submit a specific request, contact our team today.