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info@mvainc.com
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Duluth, GA 30096, USA
Contamination is a common and a serious problem for different manufacturing industries, including food, printing, packaging and pharmaceuticals. When the contamination issue is not quarantined appropriately, it can lead to product recall and manufacturing suspension. It can also cause financial repercussions and damage a company’s public reputation. For contamination identification, our analyses provide information on the shape, size and color and composition of the contaminants. If needed and possible, we will compare the contaminant to known materials work with clients to compare the contaminant to known materials to try to help identify the source of the contamination.
THE PROBLEM: A major manufacturer of paper products contacted MVA because of contamination issues with its product. White spots appeared on their teal-gray paper.
THE ANALYSES: Stereomicroscope examination indicated white particles/inclusions on and in the paper. The particles/inclusions were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and/or scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry (EDS). White/translucent flakes lightly adhering to the paper’s surface were composed of carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, and chlorine and the infrared absorption spectrum suggested a protein-based material, a finding consistent with skin flakes. White spots included in the paper were comprised of titanium and probably came from paper pigments. Clear/translucent flakes lightly adhering to the surface of the paper were consistent with polyester.
THE OUTCOME: With the contaminants identified, the manufacturer was able to target the cleanup of their manufacturing processes.
Our experts have over 30 years of experience working with a wide range of industries and clients on contamination identification. Our goal is to help our clients identify the composition of the contamination and determine its source.
For more information, please call us at 770-662-8509 or email us at info@mvainc.com.