Matrix identification

Matrix identification analysis aims to determine the chemical and structural nature of an unknown substance , whether it be a liquid, a powder, or a solid material. This service is essential for characterizing products, objects, or samples whose composition is unknown or only partially documented.

Matrix identification addresses a variety of issues: quality control, regulatory compliance, failure analysis, and contamination analysis. It provides a complete chemical signature of the sample through approaches combining spectroscopy, chromatography, and elemental analysis .

Analytical methods used

Several complementary techniques are used to ensure reliable and comprehensive identification:

• Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy : allows obtaining the chemical fingerprint of a compound from the vibrations of its molecular bonds.
• Raman spectroscopy (in addition to FTIR): useful for identifying polymers, pigments and mineral fillers.
• Chromatography (GC-MS, LC-MS) : separation and identification of volatile or semi-volatile organic components of a complex matrix.
• ICP-MS and ICP-OES : elemental analysis to determine the composition in metals, minerals or inorganic impurities.
• X-ray diffraction (XRD) : identification of crystalline phases and inorganic compounds present.

Depending on the nature of the material, these techniques can be combined to obtain a multi-technique analysis offering a high level of accuracy and traceability.

To learn more, also check out:

• FTIR infrared spectroscopy ,
• Raman spectroscopy ,
• ICP-MS analysis for the detection of metallic elements,
• and HPLC chromatography for the identification of specific organic compounds.

Industrial applications

Matrix identification is used in many industrial and regulatory contexts:

• Materials and polymers : determination of the composition of a plastic, elastomer or composite in case of non-conformity, aging or breakage.
• Food packaging : identification of constituent materials and verification of compatibility with food contact.
• Cosmetics and nutraceuticals : characterization of undocumented powders, extracts, pigments or active ingredients.
• Environment : identification of residues, particles, microplastics or contaminants in water, air or soil.
• Technical and legal expertise : analysis of unknown substances, traceability of origin, or control of counterfeit goods.

These analyses guarantee the conformity, safety and traceability of products, while providing objective evidence for technical or regulatory studies.

Analytical interest and complementarity

Matrix identification can be combined with other tests for a complete understanding of the material's composition and behavior:

• DSC thermal analysis to measure phase transitions;
• Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to study thermal stability;
• Accelerated aging test to observe chemical changes over time;
• Study of biocorrosion to identify microbial alterations of materials.

These integrated approaches allow for a complete characterization of materials and a better understanding of their behavior under real-world conditions of use.

YesWeLab Services

YesWeLab collaborates with a network of partner laboratories specializing in chemical and materials analysis , accredited to ISO 17025 and/or COFRAC .
Our scientific teams select the method best suited to your specific needs: identification of unknown products, conformity testing, failure analysis, or regulatory analysis.

Thanks to the YesWeLab digital platform , you can centralize your analysis requests, track your samples, and access your reports online. Since 2020, YesWeLab has been supporting manufacturers in the materials, polymers, packaging, and environmental with their identification and characterization needs.

To obtain a quote or a customized analytical solution, contact our scientific team today.